All About the Accessories

rachel barkules

A.L.C. Top (cutest detail in back!), similar for less here | Frame Denim | Kate Spade Pumps | Givenchy Bag, similar for less here | Alexis Bittar Necklace, also love this | Alexis Bittar Earrings (this style sold out), available in Silver, similar here, here | Nadri Bracelets Here, Here, Here | Daniel Wellington Watch | Prada Sunglasses

I love taking a simple, classic outfit and changing it up with accessories.  I wanted to keep this look stream line so I did all black, white and silver.  I love this Alexis Bittar jewelry!!  I actually love all of his jewelry!  It is so hard to capture just how beautiful these pieces are in a photo.  In person they catch the light and sparkle so beautifully!  Every time I wear this necklace/earring set I always get so many compliments!
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Sunny Days & Colorful Dress

breezy

Young Fabulous & Broke Dress, also available Here | Denim Jacket | Enzo Angiolini Shoes (sold out), similar Here, for Less | Chanel Bag, similar from Fendi, similar for less Here | Lana Earrings, similar for less Here | Tom Ford Sunglasses

I just got home from Tampa a couple days ago.  I love being there so much!  It is always so much fun seeing my family!!  I lived in Tampa for about 10 years and now I have lived in the Chicagoland area for 10 years.  Both places feel like home to me.  So I always enjoy going back home, even if it is just for a few days!

I loved escaping the cold for a few days.  I have been buying so many dresses and sandals lately.  I can’t wait for spring!  It was so nice to put on a dress and sandals and feel the warmth of the sunshine.

It wasn’t warm enough to go to the pool.  So I’m already planning another trip over spring break :)  Hopefully it all works out and we will all get to go for the whole week!
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Skin Care Advice to Women Under 20

Growing up my Mom was always really good about teaching me how to take care of my skin.  I remember in junior high her taking me to the mall and getting me my first skin care routine.  More importantly, she showed me by example.

Then when I was 17 years old my brother got engaged.  Shortly after his engagement, his future Mother in law came over for a girls spa day at the house so we could all spend time together and really get to know each other.  We all instantly fell in love with her!  She is such an incredible woman and a very talented esthetician.  She gave us all facials and she sat me down and gave me tons of skin care advice.  Maybe it was the fact that she is a skin care professional or maybe that she isn’t my own mother, but I took her words and advice like it is the Bible.  (side note: when you are a teenager listen to your Mom.  She really does know what she is talking about!)

That day was fuel to my already love for skin care, and it has since been a strong passion of mine.  Thank you so much Diana Fountain for spending the time to teach me so much!

So what did my Mom and Diana teach me?  This is what I am going to share with you today.  I have been so blessed to have women in my life to teach me about skin care at a very young age.  And I can tell you it makes a huge difference!  I want to pass on all my knowledge and wisdom to you :)  Prevention really is the best, the easiest and the cheapest!
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Leather Jacket with Faux Fur Collar

leather jacket faux fur collar

Topshop Jacket | A.L.C. Top, also Here (on sale) | Joe’s Jeans | BCBG Booties | Givenchy Bag | Baublebar Earrings | Prada Sunglasses | Buxom ‘Guilty Angle’ Lipstick

This jacket is well lined for extra warmth.  There is a great quilted lining which is perfect for cooler days and nights.  And the faux fur collar is removable.  This jacket is extremely versatile.

Today Caleb and I are flying home.  We had such a fun mommy/son trip to Tampa.  Last year I brought Sofia to Florida for a long weekend, this year was Caleb’s turn.  I love taking these one on one trips with my kids.  It is so special to spend so much quality time with each of my kids.

Caleb could not have been more adorable and fun!  He was so cute on the plane.  He slept in bed between me and my mom, snuggled up against my body all night long.  He woke up every morning smiling at me.  He had a blast at Legoland!  He had so much fun spending time with family.

I am so excited I got to take this trip with him.  There are so many memories I will remember forever!
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