New Year's Goals, A Prize, & Happy Birthday!

The month of December always gets people thinking about next year: a clean slate, a fresh perspective, a slimmer waistline ;) Even those of us who think new year's resolutions are pointless can't help but ponder the future and look back on the year that was. I guess it's only natural that as time passes, we want to progress. If you had a wonderful year, consider yourself blessed and hopefully the momentum will continue. If you had a so-so year or a horendous one, I hope that January 1st brings you the promise for brighter days!

I try not to make too many resolutions, and I actually will just name these goals instead since that is really what they are. Everybody needs some of those! I decided to not only write these down on paper, but actually type them here on my blog. Maybe then I can be held a little more accountable. I need to be reminded sometimes!

So here are my goals for 2011 in no particular order:

1) I will take more fashion risks. Nothing too outlandish, but enough to push my sensibilities and move my style forward. I think we are always evolving in terms of what we like and what we don't, what we will wear comfortably and what will make us freak out a little in our heads. Just little risks, that's all.

2) I will only buy beauty/hair/and makeup products that I need or absolutely have to have! Hear that, MAC collections? No more shopping just because I can, and more shopping because I actually need something or simply can't live without it!

3) I've fallen off the health and fitness bandwagon and I can't get back on! It's been almost three weeks since I hit the gym and boy am I feelin' it! I will get back to my routine, despite the sore, bruised bum. Starting next week! I was given a Yoga mat for Christmas so I will also try Yoga. And, I will get back to eating lots of fruits, veggies, lean proteins, and whole wheats.

4) I will drink more water.

5) I want to learn more about photography and eventually get a better camera so that I can make this little blog look more professional. So...

6) I will TRY and make this little blog look more professional. No promises though!

7) I will work hard and save for things I really want instead of just dreaming. I'm not simply referring to clothes and cosmetics either. You can have anything with heart and determination.

8) I will continue to improve and sharpen my writing skills. This includes reading more books.

There's more, but I don't want to bore you any longer with this so I digress.

What are your new year's goals?

On another note, I finally won something in a blog giveaway! I don't think I've ever won anything in my life! I was so excited when the gorgeous Carolina of Closet full of nothing announced my name. She is an incredibly stylish blogger and I just adore reading everything she posts. Thank you so much again Carolina ♥

She sent me the sweetest little card along with Chanel's Riva nail polish. My first bottle! It is a pretty robin's egg blue with loads of shimmer.





Lastly, I want to say HAPPY BIRTHDAY to my love. He is older, wiser, and more handsome today than the first night we met ;) I never thought it was possible to love someone so much. He's a good one, and I am lucky.

Happy New Years everyone! I hope you all have a wonderful celebration tomorrow night, whether it's with friends out on the town or spent in some warm pajamas with loved ones at home. For the last time in 2010, Thank You for reading.

♥ Noelle

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Little Wishes Do Come True

I am sorry for my lack of blogginess readers. I wasn't planning on taking a mini hiatus but well, it happens. No need for apologies I know, but I miss you when I'm away from my computer. I can't believe how much blogging has enriched my life. I think it's become more than a hobby of sorts - I truly feel like I've found a home here and I just wanted to thank you again for being so kind and supportive.

Did you all have a wonderful Christmas? Mine was pleasant, but I feel like I've gained a million pounds! All of the goodies that my boyfriend's family made has spoiled me rotten. That coupled with that fact that I haven't worked out since I bruised my tailbone is forcing me to place "Work out, eat healthy" on the top of my New Year's resolution list. Typical, right?!

I decided to take the plunge and buy two pieces of jewelry for myself. I didn't feel so guilty because my Christmas shopping was done and I had some extra money saved up:

I bought these at the Bellagio in Las Vegas. My first Chanel purchase! It was difficult bypassing the gorgeous quilted bags, but I can at least afford a pair of gorgeous quilted earrings.

The YSL Arty Oval Ring in turquoise.

I couldn't be happier with them! My plan is to buy a pretty, old-fashioned jewelry box to store my treasures in. Did any of you buy anything for yourselves this Holiday Season? I couldn't resist!

♥ Noelle

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Current Obsession: Black Swan

I had been waiting in eager anticipation to see Black Swan until Monday night. I don't typically recommend movies to people because everyone has different tastes. I can tell that some won't like this one due to some pretty graphic scenes that made the boyfriend and I blush (at least, I could feel myself blushing in the dark theatre). But I like psycho-sexual, creepy, what-the-hell-is-going-on thrillers. It fulfills some sort of curiosity in me. The fact that I studied Psychology and actually enjoyed reading Freud helps further this little 'ol fact about yours truly. So do I recommend it? I do! I loved every minute of it, and am contemplating seeing it again.

The film has already been nominated for four Golden Globes, including best actress for Natalie Portman. She gives the performance of her career. I didn't take my eyes off her the entire movie. She was captivating and beautiful.

I'm really into ballerina buns right now.

Boyfriend's favorite actresses, together in one movie =)

~Images found using Google~

Have you seen Black Swan? If so, I'd love to hear your thoughts!

♥ Noelle

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What happens in Vegas (usually) stays in Vegas

Happy Monday everyone! I hope you all enjoyed the weekend. I certainly did! Las Vegas was cloudy and rainy, but the bf and I didn't let a little weather ruin our good time and our even better moods. I must admit I am still tired this morning, so I will let the pictures I took do most of the talking. Overall, it was an extremely relaxing Vegas vacation, and a romantic one at that. Trust me when I tell you that I desperately needed it!

Friday night. My tailbone is still really sore but I managed to bust out heels both nights.

Saturday morning, in front of the Mirage. You're right Katie, it's beautiful!

The inside is like a tropical forest.

City Centre. YOU MUST GO! We didn't even get to see half of it.

Bar/lounge inside the Aria

The boyfriend's phone takes great pictures

The Luxor is one of my favorites

Saturday night. I wore my Anthro volante top and I loved the combination with my Guess leopard heels. I was going to rock a skirt, but it was raining and I didn't bring tights!

We ate dinner at Tao in the Venetian. Truly beautiful!

Some of the best sushi I've ever had

I did a neutral eye and red lips

Nothing's better than a getaway with the one you love

Vegas again next year? Most definitely!

♥ Noelle

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I'll be back!

Hey Dolls!

I just wanted to let you know that I will be away from my computer for the next few days, as I am leaving to go to Vegas. I hope you all have a wonderful weekend ahead and I will be back to regular posting, reading, and commenting next week!

On a side note, I hurt (bruised) my tailbone Tuesday night while working out at the gym. I spent all day yesterday resting and getting Xrayed...followed by a happy shot that made me feel like I was walking through clouds. I am fine of course, but I'm a bit worried to walk in heels this weekend! I hope I can do you all proud and suck it up anyway. Oh and note to self: Don't sneeze as I just did! Cuz sneezing is no fun when you have a bruised tailbone.

♥ Noelle

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A little interview

About a month ago I was contacted by an online social fashion site. The representative asked if I would be willing to do an interview to be published today. I have never been contacted by an outside source before, so I was very excited to write the answers to a few short questions. The website, entitled Smashion, reads, " A social fashion site that features a free marketplace connecting people with a passion for fashion. Express your style, connect with others, and have fun buying and selling without paying a fee." To me, it sounds almost like ebay or an online consignment store. It's a fun concept and I will definitely continue to explore further. Anyway, if you are interested in my little interview, you can read it here!

Have a wonderful day,

♥ Noelle

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A speedy blow-out

If you're anything like me, you fight with your hair on a daily basis. And, your hair usually wins. My hair is thick and wavy. It sounds like a blessing and maybe in some ways it is. But I constantly have to blow it out and straighten it with a flat iron in order to tame frizz, flyaways, a cowlick, and a very awkward wavy texture that I wish would go completely curly or flatten out. I struggle with the inbetween.

I discovered Ready Set Blow at my local Ulta last month and I've been testing it out ever since. "Created by the hair experts at Blow, the New York blow dry bar," the express blow dry lotion claims to "accelerate blow dry time, plump hair for fuller heat-style, and tame frizz and flyaways." Um, okay! Sold!

The ready set blow lotion is not tested on animals and is free of parabens and sulfates, perfect for those of us who have colored treated or damaged hair (and those of us with a conscience too). So does it work? Yes! I haven't touched my other hair styling products. I love that it really does cut drying time. What I do is flip my head over and get my hair about 85% dry, then quickly section it off and finish blow drying the top layer with a brush. Overall, this process takes about ten minutes. Ten minutes! This doesn't account for straightening my hair with an iron, but I usually just do a quick run through with that anyways, especially during the week when I'm not entirely in the mood to deal. I also like that it acts as a heat protectant. That way, I can use this product on its own rather than having to use at least two separate products (one for protection and one to act as a leave-in conditioner or styling assistant).

Overall, I would recommend this product if you want to cut down on drying time while adding some extra shine and combat frizz. You can find this at Ulta and it retails for $22 dollars.

On that note, I am doing a project hair pan if you will! I know a lot of beauty gurus have done project 10 pan where they have to use up 10 beauty products before purchasing anymore. I am on a mission to do the same, except with all of my hair products. I am very happy with the shampoo, conditioner, and styling agents I currently have and I do not need anything else. If you have any questions, feel free to ask!

♥ Noelle



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Furry Weather

I'm getting ready to eat the boyfriend's infamous (read: insanely delicious spaghetti) and then we are going out later tonight for dessert. It was really warm today, but the nights get pretty chilly where I live. The fun will be short-lived as I have to wake up before dawn tomorrow and fumble my way to work, eyes halfway closed no doubt. Happy Friday, Dears ♥

Maroon jacket with faux fur: Forever 21

Black top: H&M

Jeans: Express

Pumps: Anne Michelle

Earrings: Forever 21

My makeup was achieved using this palette.

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YSL Arty Ovale Ring

I am completely enamored with YSL's ever popular bauble, the Arty Ovale Ring. Seen in countless magazines and on the fingers of fashion-forward bloggers, I can't help but admire its beauty and stamp it firmly on my wishlist. I wouldn't dare ask for one; No readers, this will be a treat to myself in the future. As long as I can track one down.

I love them all, but I am gravitating towards the oceanic blue lapis or the turquoise. I'm sure the final decision won't be an easy one. Candy-colored stones set against regal gold. And talk about statement jewelry! I think if you're in the mood to splurge on something special, the Arty ring is the way to go.                        

♥ Noelle

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Mission Accomplished

I found my Winter coat:

Jolt Ruffle Front Coat (Juniors)
I know I need to start making my way out of buying in the Junior's section, but this coat is exactly what I've been wanting - practical and warm, but still feminine and cute.
I want to wear my hair like the model's!

Here it is on me:

The sleeves are a bit long of course, but that's the only drawback. Love it! Love the plaid, especially since I don't own any in my closet. The length is nice too. I wish I could have gotten a picture of it from behind, because there is a cute bow near the waist.

My Winter coat for 2011.

Here is the swing coat I got from Forever 21.

See? I think it works, right?! I would wear it with closed toe pumps but I was just trying this on for blog purposes. My hair back in a cute bun and I think it's darling for an evening out on the town.

♥ Noelle

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Thank you...

I was awarded/tagged by the lovely bloggers Ashley from A Fashion Fixation and Lilly from Lilly's Style.

Thank you so much girls! I haven't done this in a really long time so I am grateful that you thought of me.

Here are 7 things you may not know about me:



1) I was 16 years old when I experienced my "first kiss." It was sort of mortifying. And fun ;) Not the boy, just the actual kiss.

2) All of the dogs my mom and I have ever owned have come from a shelter or pound.

3) I am allergic to cats. My eyes get super itchy and so does my nose. Bummer.

4) I have had anxiety problems my entire life. It gets worse during big changes and stressful times. I'm not ashamed at all to admit this, even though it's very personal to me and only a couple of my closest friends know. I have seen therapists off and on about it, and am currently seeing one now, just a couple times a month.

5) I can't use chopsticks! I have to get those little trainers that connect them everytime the bf and I go to sushi ;) I've tried and I just can't get it down!

6) I'm looking into doing freelance writing, but have no clue how to come about it. This blog is a great outlet for me, but I want to take it further one day if I possibly can. I would love to have my own column!

7) I get this question asked extremely often: My heritage - my mother was born in Mexico, but she's been a U.S. citizen for forty years. My dad is Irish, German, Scottish, and English. Put it all together and whadya get? Me!

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Getting Into The Swing of Things

I will preface by saying that once upon a time, I was very much anti-cape. They just didn't seem practical to me and I didn't think they flattered my body type. I love big winter coats and jackets, but I have an extremely hard time finding the perfect fit. I'm petite, but I also have curves and so coats are either too long, too fitted throughout the arms, and too loose in the waist. *Frustration!* Enter capes and swingy coats, the best alternative to my dilemma. They aren't tight at all in the arms, and they are supposed to be loose in the waist! Why didn't I give them a chance before? It amazes me how picky and unwilling I once was to trying things on and giving them a fair shot before making up my mind. I did some shopping a few days ago and found so many cute capes and fun swing coats.

I would be thrilled to own this by Juicy Couture. I tried one on and I fell in love, but the price was too high. I even debated buying online using Juicy's 30% off Cyber Monday discount, but it was still too much for my little wallet. I hope to one day have it in my posession, or at least a version of it. Does anyone have any recommendations?

I did manage to bring this home with me and I can't wait to wear it!

I had my reservations because of the overall shape. I thought it might overwhelm my small frame and make me look bigger and shorter, but it actually is quite flattering (I think). I tried it on with my Banana Republic super skinnies and black suede pumps and the effect is really cute. I have to be careful with it though. Any form of bagginess on my lower half and I'll absolutely look like a slob. Or a teal sack of potatos. But playing with proportions is fun, and come to think of it, I don't own any jeans that aren't skinny so I'm set. The boyfriend probably won't get it, but I'm ok with that =)

Have you found your perfect coat this year?

♥ Noelle

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