Fashion Archives - The Southern Magnolia

Amazon Athleisure Finds

June 6, 2019 1 Comment

I live in athleisure clothes. They are comfortable and so easy to run errands in while still looking cute. The only problem is that some brands of athleisure wear can be kinda pricey. I wanted to find a few options that were equally as cute as the more expensive brands but for a fraction of the cost. Amazon has become my place to find everything lately and I recently tried out some athleisure looks and was pleasantly surprised with the quality for the price. Below I have linked several items that I have purchased and others that are on my wish list. Each of the images below is shoppable by simply clicking on the image. Where are you favorite places to shop for affordable athleisure?

The Southern Magnolia is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for us to earn fees by linking to amazon.com and affiliated sites.

Tops:

Leggings:

Sports Bras:

Shorts:

Shoes:

Fashion

Target Fall Finds

November 5, 2018 No Comments

Target Fall Finds

I have been loving so many fall styles this year and have been revamping my fall wardrobe. One retailer that I have found tons of items at recently is Target. I mean how can you walk into target without looking through the clothes and shoes department. Their fall collection has been full of so many great items that I haven’t been able to resist. They are currently offering a $10 target gift card if you spend $50 on women’s clothing and accessories or a $25 gift card if you spend $100(11/4-11/10). Below I have rounded up a few of my recent purchases and a few more items that are on my wishlist. Click on the images below to shop the item.

Fashion

Spring 2018 Accessory Finds

April 17, 2018 No Comments

While the weather may not feel like spring yet, I am currently craving all things spring fashion. We are currently in Branson, Missouri (Husband’s fishing season is underway) and we had snow two days ago. Snow in April!! I couldn’t believe it. The cold weather may have me still reaching for my sweaters and jackets but I can not wait to be wearing all things spring inspired. I love all the bright colors and fun floral prints that come with spring. Even though it may not be warm enough in a lot of areas to bust out the spring clothing, we can introduce a touch of spring to our wardrobe through accessories. Below I have rounded up some super affordable spring accessories. Each of the images below is shopable by simply clicking on the photo. A lot of these items would be perfect if you have an upcoming beach vacation as well.

Jewelry:

Handbags:

Check back soon for my spring shoes and clothing finds. Share some of your favorite places to shop for your spring wardrobe in the comment section below.

More Styles to Shop:

(click the arrows left and right to shop the items)

Beauty, Fashion, Food

Friday Favorites #1

February 23, 2018 No Comments

I am starting a new series on the blog called Friday Favorites. Each Friday I will share 5 products/things that I am currently loving and give a review of why I love each one. The things I share could be anything from a clothing item, beauty product, to some type of food or even a book.

Friday Favorites #1 The Southern Magnolia is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to amazon.com. The links below are shoppable and I may receive a commission if you make a purchase after clicking one of the links.

The first item I will be sharing today is Birch Benders Paleo Pancakes. I mentioned in this previous post that I recently have cut out dairy and gluten and I have been on the hunt for a good breakfast option to replace the oatmeal I used to eat for breakfast. I stumbled upon these Paleo pancakes at Target and figured I would give them a try. The taste is AMAZING and the texture is exactly like a real pancake. These pancakes are so simple to make, you simply add water to the mix and cook for a few minutes. I use a sugar-free syrup like this one.

2.The second item I’m sharing today is Garnier Fructis Micellular Water. Does anyone else find removing make up a huge pain? I hardly ever wear eye make up but when I do I hate the removal process. It doesn’t come off easily with water alone and most eye makeup removers leave behind an oily residue. Well I have found a better way to remove not only eye makeup but the rest of your make up as well. I always like to remove my make up and then wash my face with my cleanser to get it completely clean. The micellular water easily removes your makeup and does not leave any residue behind. I simply put a little bit of the micellular water on a cotton round and wipe my make up right off, no need for harsh rubbing and it will not burn your eyes. I have also tried the L’oreal Micellular Water but I prefer the Garnier brand more. Friday Favorites #1 3. The third item is another food item, the GFB, Gluten Free Bites. As mentioned above, I have recently removed dairy and gluten from my diet. I am a huge snacker and was looking for something I could snack on that would satisfy my sweet tooth that was also dairy free and gluten free. I stumbled upon these Gluten Free Bites at the grocery store one day and gave them a try. My favorite is the dark chocolate and peanut butter flavor but they have a number of other flavors you can try as well. Not only do these satisfy my sweet tooth but I am guilt free afterwards as well. Friday Favorites #1 4. I can’t leave off one of my newest obsession’s, Fake Bake’s Tanning Lotion. I have written a post comparing several different sunless tanners and what I liked about each one here. My aunt was the one who actually gave me a bottle of the Fake Bake lotion to try and I have been hooked ever since. I have rebought it several times since. I like how quickly the color shows and that it is more of a bronze color than an orange color like some other sunless tanners. It is super easy to apply and I have not had an trouble with streaking as I have with some others. Fake Bake also comes in a mousse and a spray version that you can try if you prefer it over the lotion. 5. I’ve recently ordered a couple of pairs of tennis shoes and fell in love with this Adidas Running Edge Lux pair. I was looking for a pair that was comfortable and a neutral color that would go with anything. I had previously ordered a pair of the Adidas Running Alphabounce EM and loved the way they felt so I decided to go with another pair of Adidas. This pair is super comfortable and is currently on sale for under $80. I have worn them for weight workouts, running, and lots of walking the dog. I have been very pleased with the feel of these sneakers. One thing I would advise when ordering Adidas is that they do tend to run 1/2 size to 1 size big so I ordered a 1/2 size down and they fit perfectly. I would love to hear what thing you are currently loving. I would also love any recommendations on other products to try that you may swear by.

Fashion

Workout Wear to Kick Off the New Year

January 19, 2018 No Comments

Workout wear to kick off the new year

With the new year comes new resolutions. I feel like one of the most common new year’s resolutions tends to be fitness/health related. If you’re anything like me, it’s easy to keep those resolutions the first few weeks of the year but as time goes on it gets harder and harder. There are a few different things that can help you to keep those resolutions. One of those is having a friend to keep you accountable. Another is writing down your resolutions and the reasons that you are choosing those particular resolutions and placing the list in a place you will see it daily. It will help to remind you of your goals and reasons and give you extra motivation to follow through with them each day. I think another important part of resolutions is showing yourself grace if you do find yourself failing on your resolutions. It’s easier to just give up when you feel like you have messed up on your resolutions and just resolve to try again next year but there is no reason you can’t just start again. Another way that helps me to keep up with my fitness goals/resolutions is by updating my work out gear when I start feeling like giving up. Cute workout clothes help to renew my motivation to workout harder. Today I will be sharing a few of my favorite fitness finds that I either own, just ordered, or are on my wish list.

Immeasurably More is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for us to earn fees by linking to Amazon.com and affiliated sites.

Each picture below is shoppable, you can go directly to the website to purchase by simply clicking on any of the photos below. These are affiliate links and I may be compensated if you make a purchase after clicking one of these links. Several of the items below are on sale so grab them fast before they sell out.

Shoes:

Leggings/shorts:

Tops:

Other:

Reebok is currently having a HUGE sale on their Reebok Resolution Collection. Use code NEWYOU to get 30% off your purchase. Click here to shop the sale. Sale ends 1/31/18. They are also offering 30% off all outlet purchases at Reebok.com. Click here to shop that sale. It ends 1/31/18 as well.

Have any of you set health or fitness resolutions for this year? A couple of weeks into the new year, how many of you have been able to stick to those resolutions? What are some things you do to ensure you keep your resolutions each year?

Fashion

Spring 2017 Trends To Shop For

May 3, 2017 1 Comment

Spring 2017 Trends To Shop For

Spring clothes are my absolute favorite to shop for much to the dismay of my bank account. I love the variety that comes with spring clothes; dresses, skirts, shorts, and so much more. Another thing I love about spring shopping is all of the bright colors and beautiful prints. Below I will be sharing some of the spring trends of 2017 to stock up on.

This post contains affiliate links, which means that if you click on one of the product links and make a purchase, Ill receive a commission.

The first trend I will be discussing is my favorite. It’s off-the-shoulder, one-shoulder, and cold shoulder tops/dresses. This isn’t a trend that is new to this season but its definitely one that I’m glad is sticking around. The exposed shoulder trend is one that anyone can pull off and is super feminine and flattering. I truly believe you can never have enough off the shoulder tops. Below are some off-the-shoulder looks I am currently lusting after and many are currently on sale so grab them fast.

Cold Shoulder, Off The Shoulder, and One Shoulder:

Another trend that I love is here for another season is the athleisure trend, and more specifically sneakers. It makes running errands in your gym clothes seem chic instead of just lazy for not wanting to put on real clothes. You can pair sneakers with a dress or skirt even, which makes a look much more comfortable to get around in. I have my fair share of sneakers but I’m constantly looking for more to add to my collection. I have rounded up some of my current favorites below but act fast because sizes are going quickly.

Sneakers:

What would spring be without some floral prints? Floral prints are on trend every spring but show up in new colors or styles. I love a good floral print blouse or dress for spring. I feel its the quintessential piece of my wardrobe for the season. Each spring season I look for new floral pieces to add into my collection. I’ve linked a few pieces that I’ve had my eye on below.

Floral Prints:

Embroidery is a trend that is new to this season unlike the previous trends I mentioned. I’ve seen embroidery everywhere from tops, to dresses/skirts, pants, handbags, and even shoes. While I haven’t loved every embroidered piece I’ve seen, as when it comes to embroidery I believe less is more. I have found a few pieces I want to add to my wardrobe. I’ve included several budget friendly options below.

Embroidery:

The chambray trend itself isn’t necessarily new but it is being done in new and fun ways. One of those new ways is by combining the embroidery trend with the chambray trend. I have seen countless chambray tops and dresses with the most feminine embroidery details. I’ve included some of my finds below.

Chambray:

Last but not least, we need to talk about the trending spring handbags. Spring is definitely the time when I love to bust out a bright colored handbag or a fun floral printed bag, but another trend that is cropping up this season is straw/woven handbags. Also bags with fun details like tassels and pompoms are everywhere. Below I’ve rounded up a few of my favorite on-trend handbags for this spring season.

Handbags:

What are some of the biggest spring trends you’re seeing this year? Which of the trends that I shared above will you be wearing this season?

Fashion

In a World Where You Can Be Anything Be Kind

January 20, 2017 No Comments

In a World Where You Can Be Anything Be Kind

“Unexpected kindness is the most powerful, least costly, and most underrated agent of human change.” -Bob Kerry

(This post contains affiliate links and I will be compensated if you make a purchase after clicking on my links)

If there is one thing this world could use more of it would definitely be kindness. It seems that true genuine kindness is far and few between these days. In a world where hate seems to be so prevalent, kindness is necessary. Being kind is something that I strive to personify in my everyday life. It’s not just being kind to those that are kind to you but I think even more so to those that aren’t. I think showing kindness to those that lack it can have a profound impact. Their lack of kindness says more about them than you, but your reaction to their lack of kindness is very telling of the type of person you are. It’s not always easy but it’s important to make a conscience effort to be kind in whatever situation we are dealt.

In a World Where You Can Be Anything Be Kind

“Be the person that makes others feel special. Be known for your kindness and grace.”

I love a graphic tee as much as the next girl but I love them even more when they contain an inspirational or positive message. Cents of Style’s Inspirational graphic tees are right up my alley. They are filled with positive messages that we could all use as a reminder in our everyday life. You can find the collection here. It was hard to decide on just one (lets be honest, I will probably order several more). For me, the Be Kind graphic tee resonated the most. Coming off a presidential election year that was more charged and filled with more hate than I have ever seen in my lifetime to living in a time where cyber bullying has become rampant I think we could all use a reminder to be kind.

Grab you favorite inspirational graphic tee for 50% and free shipping with code INSPIRE17. Shop them here. Sale ends 1/22/17.

Kind words are like honey, sweet to the soul and healthy for the body. Proverbs 16:24

Fashion

Triangl Review

October 12, 2016 No Comments

You may have seen or heard about the Triangl bathing suits. I first stumbled across the Australian-based company when scrolling on Instagram. I was immediately attracted to the styles and patterns of their bathing suits. Typically I just grab a bathing suit or two at Target every year, quick, easy and affordable. I have had several instances in which I’ve shown up to the pool only to have on the exact same swimsuit as someone else. My husband surprised me with a trip to Cabo for our anniversary this year and I knew I wanted to find a swimsuit that would really stand out. I searched several different stores but never really found anything that struck me. I was a bit hesitant to order a bathing suit online due to the fear that it might not fit, especially from a company based half-way around the globe. With little success searching other stores, I decided to bite the bullet and order two bathing suits from the Triangl website. I read countless reviews from other bloggers regarding their experiences with the company and found them to be very helpful with my buying process. These reviews inspired me to write my own to help others who might be considering making a purchase from the company.

After deciding to order a couple of the Triangl bathing suits, I procrastinated before actually placing my order. I ended up ordering my bathing suits about two weeks before we were to leave on our trip and was concerned I may not get them on time. Triangl is an Australian based company but it’s distributer is located in Hong Kong. I had read several reviews that stated that they received their order quickly so I was crossing my fingers that I would get my package before we left. I placed my order on Saturday and was incredibly surprised when I received my package that following Wednesday. Shipping cost about $20 (that is for regular delivery, not expedited) so I was very pleased to receive my order so quickly. You will want to make sure that someone is home to receive the package as you do have to sign for it.

As I mentioned before I ordered two different bathing suits, the Bambi-Sugar Plum and the Paloma Arianca. I will be reviewing both as they each fit a little bit different. For size reference I am a 32B and typically wear a size 0/25 in pants.

Bambi-Sugar Plum– I really liked several of the bathing suits and had a hard time narrowing it down. I was drawn to the colors of the Bambi-Suagr Plum bikini and ultimately decided on it. I was very unsure of what size to wear but had read several reviews about the helpfulness of the 24 hour live chat feature on their website. With not having much time before my trip I didn’t want to run the risk of getting the wrong size and not having time to make an exchange. I was mostly concerned with making sure the top fit because I am in between sizes and typically have trouble wearing bikini tops that are not adjustable because I am very narrow. For the top, the XS is equivalent to a 32A and the S to a 34B. The representative that I chatted with expressed that the XS would probably be too small coverage wise but that the S might be too big around. I opted to try the S, hoping that I could make it work. She recommended an XXS in the bottoms as that corresponds to my normal pants size 0. Upon receiving my suit I was quite anxious to try it on and see how it fit. The top actually fit perfectly. You are able to adjust the shoulder straps which helps some, just not the back straps. The bottoms were a little more snug and smaller fit than I am used to but because of the neoprene fabric they really hold everything in place very well so I actually felt very comfortable moving about. Overall I was very please with my purchase.

Paloma Arianca– I decided on the Paloma Arianca because I fell in love with the printed bottoms and also loved the color of the top. This style top is almost identical fit-wise to the Bambi-Sugar Plum but the bottoms are available in both Regular (like the Bambi-Sugar Plum) and Cheeky. I knew I wanted the regular style bottoms over the cheeky because I prefer more coverage. After speaking with the representative via the live chat I decided to go with the S in the top and XXS in the bottoms in this bikini as well. After receiving this suit and trying it on I noticed that the top fit well just as it did in my other suit but that the bottoms seemed to run a little bit smaller than the bottoms in the Bambi-Sugar Plum. They seemed to fit a little tighter and were cut a little lower in the back. I contemplated sending them back to exchange for the XS but after reading lots of reviews regarding difficulty with returns and exchanges I decided to keep the bottoms. I wore them on my trip and felt comfortable in them, it took only a little while to get comfortable with the fit. The neoprene fabric really makes a difference as the bottoms stay in place so you aren’t having to pull them up or tug on them when getting in and out of the water. Ultimately I was very pleased with the quality of this suit as well.

Since I didn’t attempt to return or exchange any of my purchase I can’t really speak on that process but advise you to read the reviews of other buyer’s experiences when making your decision to return or exchange an item. Also I had read several reviews stating that the neoprene fabric creases badly if folded up and is next to impossible to get back to its smooth appearance. I made sure to pack my suits flat in my bags and when storing so that I can avoid that creasing. I also had read a review that stated that the bikini’s take longer to dry because of the thick neoprene fabric, however, I didn’t find this to be true. I felt my suits dried fairly quickly after getting out of the water. Overall I was incredibly pleased with the ordering process, shipping time, and quality and look of my bikinis.

I would love to hear from others regarding their experience with the company.

Fashion

Affordable Fall Fashion Trends

September 28, 2016 No Comments

With the start of fall, we start to pack away our shorts and summery prints in favor of jeans, fall prints, and sweaters. There are new trends that emerge with each season, some that I jump on board with, some I’m on the fence with, and others that are just not for me. The problem with trends is that they may only last a season so you don’t want to pay tons for an item that you may only wear for one season. SheInside is a great way to try out some of these trends without breaking the bank. They have a variety of items that are super trendy but yet affordable. It makes trying a trend that you are unsure of easier when you aren’t spending a fortune on an item. I shared my previous experience with SheInside in this blog post here.

One fall trend to be on the lookout for is fall florals. Florals are not just for Spring and Summer anymore. You will be seeing tons of florals on tops, dresses, and skirts in a variety of fall colors. I have linked two floral options from SheInside that are both cute and affordable.

Floral Prints:

One trend that we saw a lot of this summer was the cold-shoulder trend. It is one that I’m excited is showing no signs of ending anytime soon. It is the perfect trend for those of us living in the South where our falls feel more like an extension of the summer. You can wear long sleeves but still feel cool with your shoulders exposed.

Cold Shoulder:

A bell sleeve is another trend that we will be seeing a lot of this season. The bell sleeve is not necessarily a new trend as it was around last Fall as well, so get excited that you can break out your favorite bell sleeve tops and dresses from last year.

Bell Sleeve Tops:

Swing dresses have been around for several years and will be around again this season. Add a few more to your collection in beautiful fall hues. They are perfect for the warmer falls months with booties and then with tights and boots when winter rolls around.

Swing Dresses:

Accessories are an easy way to try out new trends. One accessory that is making a comeback is the choker. If any of you held on to your chokers from the 90’s, now is the time to break them back out. Chokers are huge this season and available in such a variety of styles. This trend pushes me out of my comfort zone so I will probably start off with an inexpensive option to see if I can pull it off. This option from SheInside is a perfect way to jump into the trend at a great price point.

Choker:

Blanket scarves are another trend that has been around for a while. It’s an accessory that is all over pinterest. They can be intimidating because they are so large compared to a traditional scarf but there are tutorials all over the place on the various ways the wear a blanket scarf. This SheInside blanket scarf is a great price and an amazing print.

Scarves:

The last trend I will be discussing today is lace-up tops .You’ve probably seen the lace up flats that bloggers are wearing and these lace up tops are gonna be just as popular. It’s definitely and edgier look than I am used to wearing but it’s a trend that I look forward to trying out.

Lace Up Tops:

MODERN MUSE

Take 40% OFF Over US$55 CODE:SQ40

Take 45% OFF Over US$100 CODE:SQ45

Go to find your favorite style from SheIn.

Just be your own Muse.

Fashion

Closet Clean Out: Tips for Cleaning Out Your Closet

September 21, 2016 No Comments

As we head into fall, I begin to put away my summer clothes and bring out my fall and winter clothes. This is usually the best time to go through and decide which pieces are worth hanging on to for another season and which need to be removed. I will be discussing the tips and tricks I use to clean out my closet. My strategy is to usually divide my clothes into 4 different piles. I make one pile for trash, one for donate, one for sell, and another for keep.

The clothes I place in the trash pile are those that have tears, rips, or stains that can not be repaired or cleaned. These are typically items that would not be worth donating. In the donation pile, I try to donate clothes that I no longer wear or that no longer fit me. There are so many places that you can donate your clothes to for those that are unable to afford their own. Especially as the colder months approach, winter jackets are one of the most needed items. I have a tendency to develop an emotional attachment with some of my clothes. It may be something that I haven’t worn for years but I keep convincing myself that I will wear it again one day. I really try to stick to the 1 year rule- if I haven’t worn it in a year, I get rid of it. Knowing that the items you may have trouble giving away could be going to someone who is in need helps to make it easier to make the decision to get rid of an item. One easy way to keep track of the items you have worn is to turn all the hangers to same way at the beginning of the season. As you wear an item, hang it back up with the hanger facing the other way. When the season is over it will be easy to find the items that you haven’t worn.

I also have a bad habit of thinking I need an item when I get it for a really good deal. I love a good sale and it sometimes causes me to buy things that don’t fit properly or that really aren’t my style. It’s typically those items that hang in my closet with tags still attached. That’s where the next pile comes in, the sell pile. There are tons of websites out there where you can sell your pre-owned and used clothing. There are even consignment stores and stores like Plato’s Closet that accept used clothing that is still in good condition.

I have had lots of success with the website Poshmark. It is so user friendly which makes it easier to make a sale. They charge no fees to list an item so if you list something that never sells you are not out any money. They do take 20% of every sale you make which may seem steep but they protect both the buyer and seller in every transaction. I have heard stories from people using other websites who have had trouble with the website always taking the side of the buyer or vice versa. I have actually had two instances in which an item I shipped was marked delivered by USPS but the buyer claims they never received the package. Instead of penalizing either one of us, Poshmark still paid me the money I was owed and refunded the buyer their money. It gives me confidence that when I ship an item I will not be conned out of the money because Poshmark fairly investigates each situation.

To get started with Poshmark, you simply sign up for an account, snap a few pictures of the items you want to sell and list them on your “closet”. It really is that easy. Make sure you provide lots of detail in your description of each item so that it makes each transaction smoother and cuts down on the number of questions you get from potential buyers. One of the unique aspects of Poshmark is that you promote your own items as well as the items of fellow sellers to help make a sale. The more you share, both your items and other’s items, the more people see your “closet” and the more likely you are to sell something. After an item sells, you will be emailed a shipping label that you simply print out and place on the package. Poshmark uses USPS to ship their packages and you can get free priority mail boxes from the post office to ship all your items in. When you are ready to cash out the money from the items you have sold, you can either request a check be mailed to your address or link an account so that the money can be directly deposited. Another option is to use the money from your sales to purchase an item from another person’s closet. Poshmark used to be strictly for women’s clothing but has recently opened up to children and men’s clothing. It’s a great source to score some awesome deals on brand name items as well as buy new clothing from one of the many boutiques that are on Poshmark.

That brings us to the 4th pile, the keep pile. These are the items that you know you are going to wear the upcoming season. After cleaning out all the other items that you no longer need/want, you’ve got plenty of room to add new items to your wardrobe.