Treat Yourself Mother’s Day Gift Guide

Treat Yourself Mother’s Day Gift Guide

Mother’s Day is just days away and by now you may or may not already have the perfect gift in hand for your mother, mother-in-law, or that someone special who is like a mother to you. As a mother, it’s pretty much our job to look after and take care of everyone and that’s okay. I LOVE my family and couldn’t think of anything else I’d rather do. However, as I’ve gotten older I’ve also realized the importance of self-care and that it’s okay to ‘spoil’ ourselves every once in a while. That’s why this year’s Mother’s Day gift-giving guide is a little different. It’s all about ways we can treat ourselves. Below are some things I’m loving plus a few extras that have caught my eye. Wishing a very Happy Mother’s Day to all our Pretties!

1. Hey Humans Lavender Vanilla Body Wash, Lotion, and Deodorant

There’s been a huge shift in trying to use beauty products that are clean, natural, and eco-friendly and my household is no different. Three products that have found a pretty permanent place in my bathroom are the Lavender Vanilla Body Wash, Lotion, and Deodorant by Hey Humans. These products can be found at Target which I love because easy access to the things I use is crucial. They also have other scents such as Banana Aloe, Cedarwood Sage, Coconut Mint, & Apple Matcha.

2. The Lazy Genius Way by Kendra Adachi

Being a Lazy Genius isn’t about doing more or doing less. It’s about doing what matters to you and I can’t wait to check out what that actually means for my life! This gift idea comes recommended by our very own Lauren who loves this easy read and its realistic and practical approach to deciding what’s important in life. It’s completely changed the way she approaches things.

3. iSmile Teeth Whitening Kit

My morning doesn’t start until I’ve had my coffee but that can take a toll on the whiteness of my teeth. This at-home treatment is really easy to use and the price is really budget-friendly especially compared to getting my teeth whitened at the dentist. Did I mention it’s really easy to use? Just put the gel into the mouth tray and wear it for only 10 minutes a day. One helpful tip is if you’re finding it hard to get the gel evenly on your teeth using the trays, you can apply it with a q-tip then use the tray and light. This will help keep it off your gums as well. Now say ‘cheese’!

4. Hanicure The ll-In-One Facial – Single

At $29 for a single-use kit, this is definitely an indulgence. It boasts the promise of smaller pores, reduced fine lines, firmer and healthier skin. It’s gotten great reviews but make sure to read the directions carefully regarding the mixing of the products. Leave the mask on for 20 minutes and as the product dries, it will begin to feel tight on the skin. It can also leave skin a little red after you wash it off but that typically goes away after a few hours leaving skin feeling smooth and fresh.

5. Oofos Active Recovery Footwear

This suggestion comes from another member of the GYPO team, Jessica, and her need for some summer footwear to cushion her feet. Her favorite cozy slippers, while perfect for the cold Pennsylvania winters are just a little too warm during the summer months. Oofos Active Recovery Flip-Flops and Slides are the perfect combination of coolness and support making them a great ‘house shoe’ that can also be worn to run errands. They come in many different colors and styles and they give her feet the relief they need even on her tile floors.

6. Q&A A Day For Moms

For those who want to get into journaling but aren’t sure where to start, this Q&A A Day for Moms is perfect. It only takes a few moments to answer each day’s fun little prompts. Plus with five years worth of space, it’s fun to look back at what little story each day holds from years past. Kids grow up so fast and this is a great way to be able to look back and remember those special moments.

7. Jo Malone London™ Wood Sage & Sea Salt Cologne

I don’t know what else to say about this except that this is my new favorite year-round fragrance! It’s earthy but fresh and the scent lasts all day. It’s cozy enough for winter but light enough for summer.

8. Ember Temperature Control Mug

The Ember mug is seriously one of the best inventions ever. If you don’t know what the Ember mug is, it’s a self-heating mug that keeps your coffee (or tea) warm to the last drop. Originally my husband got one from our son and he immediately said I needed one because I’m constantly reheating my coffee. The mug comes in a 10oz or 14oz as well as a travel version. They also just came out with a new metallic finish collection and I love the Rose Gold! If you know me, you know how much I love my coffee and this makes it even better!

9. Thrive Liquid Lash Extensions Mascara™

I’ve had really bad experiences with most mascaras because they all tend to irritate my sensitive eyes. Anything that flakes will make them instantly hurt which is why I find myself wearing false lashes pretty much every day. I’ve seen a lot of chatter about Thrive Mascara both online and from the Pretties so I decided to buy it, not for myself but for my daughters. They too fell in love with the product and after further review, I learned that this is a ‘tube’ mascara meaning it wraps around my lashes and won’t flake off. It’s been really good to my eyes and really does help lengthen my lashes. It comes in both a rich black and rich brown color and is also an Allure Award Winner for 2020.

10. Prose Hair Care System

The Prose Hair Care creates customized hair solutions by utilizing a quiz that takes into account your hair type, hair habits, health, and even environmental factors. By creating a system that is customized only to that person, no two systems are alike. They offer a variety of natural scent options and even a fragrance-free option. You can do a one-time order or set it up on a subscription basis at a discounted rate. If you’re not happy with your products they offer a 100% satisfaction guarantee that you can either return the products or change your formula within 30 days of your delivery date. I always feel better trying new products that have an easy return policy.

Bonus: THE ULTIMATE BOOK OF OUTFIT FORMULAS®

Lastly, something that is near and dear to my heart, my book, The Ultimate Book of Outfit Formulas®, A Stylish Solution to What Should I Wear? This is the perfect gift for any woman who struggles with what to wear. This book is the epitome of the Get Your Pretty On mission, to change the way women feel about themselves- forever. We believe every woman, no matter their size, age, ethnicity, or budget, deserves to feel pretty. Women who feel good in their own skin are always the prettiest – and that touches every area of their lives.

Your turn! What have you spoiled yourself with lately? Let me know in the comments below!

Pretty Fix – Overalls

Pretty Fix – Overalls

It’s Pretty Fix time and this month I’m diving into one of this season’s polarizing trends, overalls. Love ’em or not, overalls are everywhere this spring. They are like a fun cross between jeans and a romper and whether you’ve worn them before or this is your first time exploring this trend, they are actually pretty comfortable. And just like jeans, they pretty much go with everything. Plus they come in a variety of washes, cuts, and lengths giving you plenty of options. I will, however, be the first to admit that even though I have done this trend before, it did push me a bit outside my comfort zone but that’s okay. I always encourage you all to try new things. Don’t knock it till you try it because you just may surprise yourself. That being said I’m also featuring another trend on this month’s Pretty Fix and they are high tops. I know, I know, what are we, back in the 80s? But retailers are putting a fun and almost sophisticated spin on these comfy classics by introducing them in leopard print, with metallic accents, and even snake print. The high tops I’m seeing have been updated for the times and you never know, they may be finding their way into your closet this spring.

If you are already familiar with what the Pretty Fix is, then feel free to skip down to this month’s formula but if you’re new here let me tell you what the Pretty Fix is all about. It’s where I offer up an outfit formula that features a few seasonal trends that you can easily add into your closet staples to give them a fresh look. By using a formula you’re able to adjust it to fit your lifestyle, budget, climate, and personal style to create a look you love. While I know this month’s look will be a heck yes for some and a heck no for others, it’s still easily adaptable. Simply swap out the overalls for a pair of skinny or even crop jeans and stick with the high tops or opt for a low sneaker instead. I promise there’s a little something for everyone.

Utility Jacket + Bright Top + Overalls + High or low top Sneaker 

1. Utility Jacket

The perfect spring layer for those days that start out with winter temps and end up at summer temps around mid afternoon. While a neutral olive green is styled in this look you can easily swap it out for another neutral such as gray or camel. For longterm wear it’s best to go with a classic silhouette but that doesn’t mean you can’t opt for one with a hood or even a draw string you can cinch in to create a more defined waistline. You really can’t go wrong with adding this casual closet staple to your arsenal, plus it’s perfect for fall.

2. Overalls

The key to wearing overalls is similar to joggers, you don’t want them too tight but you also don’t want them too loose. There are some great relaxed or boyfriend cut overalls but again the focus is on fit. Opting for ones that also have a little stretch in them is never a bad idea. Plus you can mix it up by opting for a different wash or even overall shorts. I always suggest that even if they don’t make it past the dressing room or are now awaiting a UPS pickup to be returned, at least you gave them a try. In that case simply swap out for a pair of jeans, crops, or shorts for a complete look.

3. High or low Top Sneakers

Yes, I know, here is the second spring trend I’m throwing your way but again, it’s fun, casual, and always age-appropriate as long as they make you feel good! (This same statement goes for the overalls too) From simple solids to fun accents, high tops are everywhere this spring. I’m seeing them paired up with skinny jeans, rolled crops, and even shorts. Have fun with this trend and find ones that fit your personality and style. I’m pretty sure these leopard print high-tops will be finding their way to my closet very shortly.

4. Neutral Crossbody

Now we’re back to the classics. During the spring and summer months I find that I like to stay more casual and have my hands free as well which is why I love the crossbody style hand bag. When I saw this handbag I knew it was the perfect one to finish off this outfit formula. It’s not too big but not too small that I can’t fit the essentials in it. Plus it will pair with everything. Easily pair this up with some shorts and a bright tee in the summer and finish off with some bangle bracelets and metallic sandals. I love pieces I can enjoy for multiple seasons, don’t you?

5. Bright Top

Spring to me is all about color! Like the beautiful flowers of spring, I love it when the pastels and vibrant colors start popping up at various retailers. For this look, you can easily opt for a bright tank, short sleeve, or even a long sleeve if your climate is still a bit chilly. For those of you who recently welcomed a dumping of snow, I may even recommend a bright sweater for under your overalls. Again the key to keeping this look from feeling sloppy is fit. Look for a top that’s a little more fitted and long enough that you can successfully keep it tucked into your overalls unless you want to go for the cropped look which is also very on-trend this spring. As I said above, it’s all age-appropriate as long as you love what you’re wearing and the way you feel when you’re wearing it.

6. Hoop Earring

Classic, timeless and it’s okay to have multiple styles, sizes, and metals when it comes to your hoop earrings. This look already has a lot of great visual interest I decided to keep the jewelry simple. You can even opt for a pair of stud earrings to simplify it even more. Also, don’t be afraid to mix metals. just because the buttons and snaps on your overalls are one color does not mean you need to match it to your jewelry. Have fun and mix it up!

Your turn! Will you give overalls a try this spring?

Style Your Budget – Outfit Formulas® Spring 2021 Capsule Wardrobe

Style Your Budget – Outfit Formulas® Spring 2021 Capsule Wardrobe

Hey Pretties! Welcome to this month’s Style Your Budget which features one of the outfits from the Outfit Formulas® Spring 2021 Capsule Wardrobe. As much as I love wearing my jeans, I’m always looking for a fun alternative and this spring I discovered chinos. I will be the first to admit that I wasn’t sure about them, however after trying them, I loved all the options they opened up. They can be dressed up or easily dressed down. Below I styled them with some of my favorite closet staples including my striped top and denim jacket. I couldn’t decide how to finish them off so I’m showing both options, white sneakers or metallic shoes.

If you’re new to Style Your Budget, it’s where I offer style inspiration for a fun seasonal look. The looks often feature a trend or two and I pair it with some classic closet staples. Most items you may already have in your closet but in case you don’t, I offer different price points to help you fill in the gaps. I truly believe every woman, no matter their size, age, ethnicity, or budget, deserves to feel pretty and confident. Now let’s check out this month’s Style Your Budget formula.

Denim Jacket + Striped Top + Chinos + White Sneakers or Metallic Shoes

Now Let’s style your budget!

Option 1

DENIM JACKET $19.96 / STRIPED TOP $8.48 / CHINOS $11.99 / METALLIC SHOES $14.98 / BLACK HANDBAG $19.97 / HOOP EARRINGS $10.99 / SCARF $8.98

TOTAL $95.35

Option 2

DENIM JACKET $39.99 / STRIPED TOP $4.99 / CHINOS $14.99 / WHITE SNEAKERS $24.99 / BLACK HANDBAG $24.99 / HOOP EARRINGS $5.99 / SCARF $12.99

TOTAL $128.93

Option 3

DENIM JACKET $29.99 / STRIPED TOP $8.00 / CHINOS $27.99 / METALLIC SHOES $24.99 / BLACK HANDBAG $39.99 / HOOP EARRINGS $7.99 / SCARF $7.00

TOTAL $145.95

Option 4

DENIM JACKET $39.99 / STRIPED TOP $12.49 / CHINOS $23.99 / WHITE SNEAKERS $39.99 / BLACK HANDBAG $39.99 / HOOP EARRINGS $5.99 / SCARF $22.49

TOTAL $184.93

Option 5

DENIM JACKET $31.57 / STRIPED TOP $20.60 / CHINOS $39.99 / WHITE SNEAKERS $28.74 / BLACK HANDBAG $54.99 / HOOP EARRINGS $18.00 / SCARF $10.99

TOTAL $204.88

Option 6

DENIM JACKET $79.00 / STRIPED TOP $25.00 / CHINOS $49.00 / METALLIC SHOES $39.00 / BLACK HANDBAG $58.00 / HOOP EARRINGS $18.00 / SCARF $12.50

TOTAL $282.48

Your turn! What look is your favorite?

Like what you see? When you sign up for Outfit Formulas® Spring 2021 Capsule Wardrobe, you’ll receive a shopping list of on-trend spring essentials, including accessories. Get 31 days of casual outfit ideas PLUS “dress it up” and “dress it down” options to adjust each outfit for every spring event on your calendar!

Five Days of Spring Outfit Formulas®

Five Days of Spring Outfit Formulas®

Raise your hand if you’re ready for spring and looking forward to getting dressed again! While I have enjoyed the moment athleisure wear has been having, I feel like spring is providing us with a fresh start. And with that, increasing opportunities to want to get dressed in the morning. I’m excited to enter into the warmer months and pack away my fall and winter wear. I’m even more excited about the launch of Outfit Formulas® Spring 2021 Capsule Wardrobe! As always this capsule is a great mix of closet staples with some fun spring trends thrown in and yes, there are even some trends that have me stepping outside of my comfort zone.

Just like seasons past, I wanted to share five spring outfit formulas® to help you ease back into spring. Check out the formulas below and see how I styled them. And for a complete list of items, outfit formulas®, and links, download my free guide, 5 Outfit Formulas® That You Need This Spring! Remember, outfit formulas® are designed to help give you a guide so you can dress for your lifestyle, your body, your climate, and do what fits your personality. It’s all about feeling great in what you’re wearing and then letting your confidence shine! How will you use the formulas to style your perfect spring looks? Share your pictures with us over on the Facebook Pretties page!

Outfit Formula #1

COLOR CARDIGAN + WHITE TOP+ LIGHT WASH JEANS + TAUPE SHOES

A pink cardigan paired with a white tee and some light wash jeans finished off with some taupe shoes.

Alison is wearing a pink cardigan paired with a white tee and some light wash jeans finished off with some taupe heels.

For the first outfit formula I wearing everything from my closet however the cardigan from H&M is new. Unfortunately, it’s showing as sold out online but you may be able to find it in-store. Here’s a similar pink cardigan. This outfit is a perfect example of if you have a solid foundation, adding one simple piece can change the whole look.

Outfit formula #2

TRENCH COAT + PRINTED BLOUSE + WHITE BOTTOMS + TAUPE SHOES

A light trench coat is styled with a navy printed top and white jeans, finished off with some taupe shoes.

Alison is wearing a navy printed top with some white jeans and taupe heels.

If you’ve been following me then you know that white jeans are a year-round staple in my closet however I’m excited to pair them up with some lighter pieces of clothes like this awesome floral top from J.Crew Factory. Again, I’m using my closet staples foundation of white bottoms, my taupe shoes and then something fun and new creating a great spring look. Layers are crucial for spring’s unpredictable weather so I’m going to finish off this look with a classic trench which is not only a great closet staple but also a great investment piece. My white jeans are from J.Crew Factory, however, there are only a few sizes left. Here is a similar pair from Old Navy.

Outfit formula #3

DENIM JACKET + STRIPED TOP + OLIVE BOTTOMS + WHITE SNEAKERS OR METALLIC SHOES

A denim jacket is styled with a striped short sleeve top and some olive pants and finished off with white sneakers or metallic sandals.

A woman is wearing a denim jacket, styled with a striped short sleeve top and some olive pants and finished off with white sneakers.

I’m a sucker for stripes so I paired them up with some olive jeans, my favorite denim jacket, and added some new white kicks with some fun metallic embellishments on them for spring. The best part is as the day warms up I can easily remove my jacket and still feel like a I have complete look on.

outfit Formula #4

NEUTRAL CARDIGAN + NEUTRAL PRINTED TOP + DARK WASH JEANS + WHITE SNEAKERS OR METALLIC SHOES

A brown sweater is styled over a leopard printed top and medium wash jeans with white sneakers or metallic sandals.

Alison is wearing a brown cardigan styled over a leopard printed top and medium wash jeans with white sneakers.

I have to say this look does combine a few new pieces I bought for the spring, but I’ll be able to carry them through to summer, and let’s be honest, they are pretty classic so I’m sure I’ll be wearing them for a while. While leopard is a classic in my book it’s still having its moment. That’s why so I got this light and airy leopard print top from J.Crew Factory. I then paired it with this cardigan from H&M. It’s the same style as the pink one from above. I finished it off with my metallic embellished white sneakers.

Outfit Formula #5

DENIM JACKET + SOLID TOP + CHINOS + SNAKE PRINT SHOES

A denim jacket is paired with a light pink tee and khaki pants with snake print sneakers or flats.

Alison is wearing a denim jacket paired with a light pink tee and khaki pants with snake print slip ons.

I know what you’re thinking, chinos, really? I was the same way but once I found this pair from J.Crew Factory and they turned out to be a ‘heck yes,’ I realized all the different outfit possibilities it opened up. Plus it’s a great alternative to denim. For this formula, I paired up a few closet staples like snake print slip-ons and my denim jacket then added in a simple solid tee. Finally, I had a little fun sprinkling in some accessories to finish off the look.

Your turn! What Outfit Formula is your favorite for spring?

Like what you see? When you sign up for Outfit Formulas® Spring 2021 Capsule Wardrobe, you’ll receive a shopping list of on-trend spring essentials, including accessories. Get 31 days of casual outfit ideas PLUS “dress it up” and “dress it down” options to adjust each outfit for every spring event on your calendar!

Two outfits are collaged with accessories for spring.

Ten Easy Spring Accessory Trends to amp up your wardrobe

Ten Easy Spring Accessory Trends to amp up your wardrobe

Spring is the perfect time to go through your closet, dust off your sandals, and await the warmer weather. To say it’s been a crazy and unusual winter in Texas is an understatement. It’s pretty safe to say I’m looking forward to spring more this year than I ever have. While I’m a sucker for a timeless outfit formula, one of the easiest ways to change it up is with accessories.

While digging through what accessory trends we’ll be seeing this spring, I’m seeing some repeats from last spring as well as some old favorites from a few years ago. (This just once again proves that if you really love an article of clothing or accessory don’t get rid of it! It will have its moment again!) You’ll also notice a lot of the trends overlap each other making it really fun to mix and match. Below are some of the fun accessory trends I’m seeing this spring.

1. Long Pendants

The long pendants of fall are coming back around for the summer! They are the perfect light alternative to the scarf. Not to mention, they add a ton of visual interest to any top.

A long pendant necklace.

Hanging Leaves and Channels Long Necklace – A New Day™ Gold

A long colorful pendant necklace is part of Easy Spring Accessory Trends.

Old Navy Marbled Oval-Pendant Chain Necklace

A long gold pendant necklace with a light aqua stone.

Madewell Amazonite Pendant Necklace

2. Statement Earrings

When you wear a pair of fun statement earrings you really don’t need to wear anything else which makes this a great accessory for the spring and summer. Another example of keeping it simple yet having a big impact!

Black, white and gold statement earrings.

Organic Shape Stone with Semi-Precious Bead Drop Earrings – Universal Thread™

Mother of pearl statement earrings.

Kendra Scott Elle Filigree Drop Earring

Long gold leaf earrings.

Anthropology Eucalyptus Drop Earrings

3. Pearls

Pearls are still going strong whether in earring, necklace, or bracelet form. They even look great as a headband which you’ll see later on. I love seeing all the modern takes on this traditional item. Plus I’m seeing them in so many fantastic mixed mediums. Also, there’s no need to save your pearls for a special occasion, these pearls are ready for your everyday wear.

Silver earrings with pearls are Easy Spring Accessory Trend.

Sterling Forever Genuine Pearl Hammered Drop Earrings

A multi strand pearl necklace with a gingham bow tied on the back.

Pearl and Gingham Ribbon Statement Necklace J.Crew Factory

A gold bracelet with pearl accents.

Anne Klein Pearl Link Bracelet

4. Straw Bags

Straw bags made a huge splash a few years ago and now they are back and cuter than ever! I’m loving all the different styles and what screams ‘I’m ready for sunshine’ more than a fun straw tote!

Straw totes are super Easy Spring Accessory Trends.

Crown Vintage Straw Tote

An orange straw crossbody bag.

Straw Flap Magnetic Closure Crossbody Bag – Universal Thread™

A brown and white straw tote.

Straw Circle Handle Tote Handbag – A New Day™ Natural

5. Colorful Beaded Jewelry

This is not the beaded necklaces I used to make when I was little. The colorful beaded necklaces and bracelets are all grown up and the sophisticated color combinations are gorgeous! Yet another easy way to elevate any solid color top and add fun pops of color!

A colorful beaded necklace.

Loft Colorful Modern Y Necklace

A set of three beaded bracelets, pink, navy and coral is Easy Spring Accessory Trend.

Talbots Stretch Beaded Bracelet Set

Multi-colored beaded hoop earrings.

Nordstrom Beaded Hoop Earrings

6. Charms

This is another trend that’s incorporating itself into multiple accessories. From charmed statement earrings, necklace, and of course the original, charm bracelet. It’s another great way to let your different likes and interests shine through!

Gold earrings with four different colored gem stone charms hanging off.

Loft Charm Hoop Earrings

A gold charm bracelet with a starfish, heart, mood, horseshoe and four leaf clover.

J.Crew Factory Good Luck Charm Bracelet

Gold charm necklaces are just part of some Easy Spring Accessory Trends.

Loft Charmed Layered Necklace

7. Thick Chains

Thick chains are back again for the spring and the hardest part will be deciding what style you want. I’ve seen them in everything from simple two link earrings to heavier hammered metal chains to light and colorful resin chain necklaces. Not to mention the layering styles which offers a little bit of everything.

A stack of four gold bracelets is an Easy Spring Accessory Trend.

Alison + Aubrey Gold Essentials Four Piece Bracelet Set

Chain link necklaces in amber, white and green.

Anthropology Joan Resin Link Necklace

Gold paperclip earrings are an Easy Spring Accessory Trend.

Target Link Earrings – A New Day™

8. Textured/Hammered Jewelry

Textured or hammered jewelry can be seen at most retailers and it’s combining a lot of the different accessory trends. For example, the above hammered silver was mixed with pearls and here it’s in the form of a long pendant necklace. It offers a little extra on what could be considered a pretty simple accessory. I especially like the pieces that incorporate the mixed metals.

A Hammered silver pendant necklace is an Easy Spring Accessory Trend.

Semi Circle Tiered Pendant Necklace – Universal Thread™ Silver

Hammered silver and gold earrings.

Worn Multi Plated Hammered Rectangle Statement Earrings – A New Day™

A hammered silver cuff bracelet is Easy Spring Accessory Trend.

Hammered Metal Cuff Bracelet – A New Day™

9. Headbands and Scarves

I can’t think of a better way to keep my hair out of my face during the spring months and still feel put together. Wear the headband or scarf alone or pair it up with a top knot or even add the scarf to a pony tail. There are so many color and style combinations you’re sure to find one that you like!

A leopard headband is an Easy Spring Accessory Trend.

J.Crew Factory Leopard Knot Headband

A pink floral printed scarf is Easy Spring Accessory Trend.

Loft Outlet Floral Mini Silk Scarf

A chambray knotted headband.

Old Navy Textile Twist-Front Headband

10. Colorful Everything

Accessories are all about the pops of color! From shoes to handbags, necklaces, and scarves, everything’s got a fresh dose of color! I’m seeing candy-colored handbags, bright shoes, and colorful jewelry. One can’t help but smile!

A colorful cuff bracelet  - easy spring accessory trends.

Ann Taylor Rainbow Tortoiseshell Print Cuff Bracelet

A light green hobo handbag.

MKF Hobo Purse – Amazon

Tassel necklaces are Easy Spring Accessory Trend.

Talbots Thread Wrapped Tassel Necklace

Your turn! Which easy spring accessory trends are your favorite?