As we are almost full into fall mode, it is time to update the fall wardrobe. There is just something about sweaters, boots, fall basics that makes you all warm and cozy.

Updating your wardrobe doesn't have to cost a fortune. Especially because if you're anything like me, we are on a budget to save, save, save. So my wardrobe and fall update can't include any brand names.

However, it doesn't mean I still can't look fab this fall.

1. Denim Legging-Target / As fall hits, I live in my denim leggings and skinny jeans. These Target ones are my absolute favorite. So comfortable and come in different washes.

2. Green satchel handbag-Target / Every season needs a new handbag. And I am loving on this hunter green satchel from Target. It's roomy and has the buckle accent.

3. Oversize Sweater-The Red Dress Boutique / Leggings, over sized sweater, pumpkin spice in my hand. My picture of a perfect fall day. And outfit.

4. Ballet Flat-Target / With the skinny jeans and denim leggings, you have to pair it with the perfect ballet flat. I am loving on these leopard flats from Sam & Libby at Target. I mean, the bow, print, just perfection.

5. Anorak Jacket- Target / When the middle of October nears, you might need to start grabbing a light jacket before you head out the door. This one has recently caught my eye and will definitely be a part of my fall wardrobe.

6. Infinity Scarf-Target  Can anyone have too many scarves? The answer is no. And fall is the perfect time to introduce new ones to your wardrobe. The perfect accessory.

7. Women's Favorite Button Down Shirt-Target / One of my favorite parts of fall wardrobe is the addition of plaid. Being a country girl, my Grandpa, uncles lived in their plaid coats and shirts when going out during brisk, fall nights.

8. Basic Tee-Body Central Basic Tee. Can be thrown under any cardigan, jean jacket and paired with denim leggings, skinny jeans and leggings. Must have for your wardrobe.

9. Denim Jacket Light Denim- Target / As I mentioned, pairs perfectly with a maxi dress, maxi skirt or even jeans. Perfect accessory when it's just not cold enough for a full jacket yet.

10. Maxi Dress -The Red Dress Boutique / Just because we have entered fall doesn't mean the maxi dress has got to go back in the with the summer clothes. You can still wear it, just pairing it with a light sweater or denim jacket. I love that this has a fall worthy floral print on it.


What are your favorite fall items for your wardrobe?

My Personal Survival Kit

Have you ever thought about everything that gets you through your day? The things you want in your corner when you are capsized on a beach?

It might also come in handy to have these items prepared for a potential zombie apocalypse. Or is just me and the fact my husband watches a lot of The Walking Dead.

It was really hard trying to find just 5 things I could take with me. And it definitely doesn't count any living creatures because you know the husband and Lily would be the tippy top of that list.
But let's let my material self get on with it.

1. iPhone Hands down, my whole life is on here. I can manage my blog, social media, take notes, tell the time. Do it all with this piece of device. Not sure if it truly counts because if it is a stranded island I won't be able to charge it. But I need this little device in my hand. If even for comfort. 2.Bobby Pins Bangs up and out of my face are necessary some days. Read, the days when you are all ahhh hair!! Plus, they make a cute accessory for shorter hair. 3.Snacks Can be any variation. If you know me, you know I always have a snack available in my purse, at home, on the go. I'm a snacker Don't stand in the way of me and my snacks, people. 4.Morning coffee You do not want to see me without my morning coffee. You even might mistake me for a zombie before I have had mine. Must have to function on even a normal basis 5.Mary Kay Mascara This has become one of my absolute beauty favorites. Just throwing on a bit of mascara even without other makeup, makes me a little bit more voom. And like I can take on any zombies that approach me. 

What would be in your personal survival kit?


This post was inspired by Man Crates. They are company that ships awesome gifts for men in custom wooden crates! 

MAN CRATES MANIFESTO

We say 'no' to ugly neckties, cologne samplers and executive trinkets. We don't save wrapping paper, we don't do ribbons.

We ship bragworthy gifts for guys. Gifts that you can't wait to arrive because you know the recipient will love opening them.

Gifts that people gather round at the office, people following the sounds of wood being torn from wood by the included, laser-engraved crowbar.

We are Man Crates, and we deliver awesome gifts for men.

At Man Crates, it is their mission to end the difficulties that have long been associated with buying gifts for men!

Top 10 Wedding Registry Must-Haves

As we enter into wedding season, we enter into bridal shower season. Cue the last additions to the registry and guests scrambling around to find the most useful gift for the newlyweds.

Choosing what to put on your registry can be a daunting task. As can be what to gift to the bride and newlyweds. Lucky for you, a year ago I had my own bridal shower filled with so much love and gifts. If you're stumped on what to add to your registry or give a newlywed couple, these list of must-haves are what we have loved using this past year!

Keurig Coffeemaker- One of the most popular registry items the past few years that just keeps getting better and better. There are so many different varieties of coffee flavors, it can be a surprise every morning! Not to mention, you can ditch the tea kettle because it also makes cups of hot water.

Handheld Vacuum-There will be plenty of tiny messes to clean up your first year as you juggle living as a twosome. I am partial to this Shark Handheld because it is great to clean cat hair off the couch and you can also use it for the car. Plus, very husband friendly.

Non-Stick Cookware-Whether you are a seasoned cook or a newbie, you want non-stick cookware. As a wife, you will want to try out all kinds of new recipes to impress the new hubby. And some might err on the side of burnt. Non-stick provides an easier clean up. Also useful for when the husband wants to try his hand at the cooking and just might set off the fire alarm. Hey, it happens.

Bedding-The one thing you will use literally every single day. I'm sure it is beyond time that you update that bedspread from your single days. Bring in the new, fresh to your marriage. Plus, you can decorate around the new color scheme. And get to start to justify your purchases for that to your new husband.

Knives-No, not for the tough times in marriage ;) Great for all that cooking from scratch you will attempt. There are no words for how new knives can make you feel like you can cut, chop, poke anything. Basically, recipes are at your mercy with new knives. Especially when they are Martha Stewart. Chopping wizard, anyone?

Mixing Bowls-You know all of those recipes in that bright, shiny, new recipe book made from your bridal shower inserts? They require multiple steps. And multiple bowls. Don't let your head spin. Register for mixing bowls. They are a lifesaver when you are trying to multitask for a recipe. Martha Stewart is a genius that offers mixing bowls that measure and do not slide. Game changer.

Dishes-It's time to ditch the idea of fine china. You have so many options for finer casual dishes. Meaning, they can be used for your everyday dishes and also be used for dinner parties. It is also necessary to say good-bye to those mismatched, plastic plates and update your cabinet.

Crockpot-Life. saver. Adjusting to newlywed life can be a struggle in the beginning. Between all the cleaning, cooking and working, it can be a bit overwhelming. The crock pot allows you a little breathe room when you get home from work as it cooks the dinner for you! Plus, this adorable Crockpot dip warmer is great for spinach artichoke dip at parties.

Mixer/Blender-You can't find a registry these days that do not have a fancy mixer or blender. It's basically a new wife right of passage to know how to make fancy desserts and cookies for family functions. Or to whip up a proper margarita to lounge out on the patio with. The Ninja is a great alternative for a larger KitchenAid mixer as it mixes small batches of cookies and cake batter. Much more intimate dinner party appropriate. And of course, those margaritas.

Monograms-Assuming you are taking on a new last name, the excitement of a new initial is something that can't be explained. Make sure to add a few fun items with your new married initial to welcome yourself as a new married lady. And to flaunt as a newlywed.



What are your registry must-haves? Anything you wish you had added to your registry?

Spring Wardrobe Updates on a Budget

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Newlywed Valentine's Day Gift Guide

Your very first Valentine's Day as a married couple is very special. Not only is it the first time you can buy those cute husband and wife Valentine's, but also the Valentine's Day you will reminisce about in the future. It's the first time you are celebrating with you"Forever Valentine."

Now that I've really piled on the pressure for you newlyweds to make this a special day, I have done some leg work for you if you are still trying to come up with the perfect gift.

*hint: Listen up guys and gals*

1.Wifey Sweatshirt- Guys, any new wife would love to receive anything that declares her as your wife. And this is the cutest one I've seen. 

2. Wedding Picture Frame-There isn't any newlywed Mrs. that wouldn't love a frame for all those wedding pictures she has. Easy peasy, fellas.

3. Cuddle Kit for 2-Dating Divas came up with this cute idea for a night in. If you are constantly on the go or setting Financial Goals like most newlyweds, this is a special but cost efficient way to celebrate Valentine's Day with your new Mr. or Mrs.

4. Romantic Dinner-Getting dressed up for a night on the town is a great way to celebrate your first Valentine's Day. Or maybe find a new recipe you can cook together at home. That can then lead to some dessert ;)

5. Victoria's Secret-Speaking of dessert...it's all about sexy when you are newlyweds so ladies, cook up something super sexy for your new husband on your first Valentine's Day. 

6. Panty Wreath- And if you are struggling with a sexy idea to amp up your Valentine's Day, this is the perfect option. All you need is a Styrofoam wreath, ribbon and your best panties. It will make your first Valentine's Day unforgettable.

7. Man Bag-Treat your man to a nice "man things" bag filled with naughty or Nice things to tell him how much you love him.

8. Man bouquet- Ladies, as he gets you flowers, throw together this nice bouquet just for your man. He will thank you for it.

What I Could Buy if I Didn't Have Student Loans

Because I like to make myself more depressed about the amount I shell out every month for my student loans (maybe you too) I present to you,

Everything I could buy with those hefty student loan payments.

1. Xbox One Games. I need to get my fitness on and husband needs to get his Batman on.
2. California to see the bestest friend who I miss so. And escape this polar vortex we are stuck in.
3. Michael Kors purple tote bag Just drooling over this bag
4. iPad Air to be like all the cool kids. And have a semi computer I do not have to share.
5. Our house 
6. Expensive, pampering spa day. Robes and all.
7. New car. More specifically a Kia sportage. Come to momma
8.Bellami Hair Extensions. I want my long hair back wahhh. 
Seen here on the always lovely Emily Gemma

 Moral of the story? Figure out a way to graduate with no student loans. Please, please, please.

 

Gift Guide for the Newlyweds

As we are entering the gift buying season for Christmas, it can be tricky to sometimes to pinpoint what to get people. Well, if you happen to have newlyweds on your gift giving list, I have compiled a few things that newlyweds would love. Trust me ;)

1 / 2 / 3 / 4 / 5 / 6 / 7

 1-The Mr. and Mrs. Embroidered bath towels. Let me tell you, newlyweds are still giddy about the Mr. and Mrs. Ok, maybe the wife more so but they always love extra house gifts!

2-Corningware Casserole Bake wear-Many newlyweds are living together for the first time and trying adventures in the kitchen. Corningware is a nice addition to help cook for family gatherings and of course, husband's favorite dinner.

3- Glass Wedding Invitation Ornament- A memorable gift that the newlyweds will cherish year after year at Christmas time with a personal touch

4-What better place to keep those shiny new rings then a nice Crate & Barrel jewelry case? It can avoid any possibility of slipping down a drain or in a crack. 

5-This Crate & Barrel cookbook has everything to get the Newlyweds started in their kitchen.How to stock the pantry and even date night dinners. Candlelight included.

6-Wedding pictures are easily the best thing ever the year after the wedding. The newlyweds love putting them everywhere and this Umbra Tray is a unique way to display them.

7-The idea of a couple pillowcase might seem corny but isn't that the stage most newlyweds are in? Super duper lovey dovey and corny. Trust me, it's cute.  

Anything you have received during your 1st Christmas married that you absolutely loved?

Linking up with Southern Beauty Guide & Life with a Side of Coffee

A Very Hpnotiq New Year's Eve | SparkleLouder and Win!

Now that we are we well into fall and embarking on the holiday season, it is time to start thinking about ringing in the New Year and what your plans will be.

Perhaps you might be interested in the New Years of a life time in Times Square, yes? Hpnotiq is giving you the chance to win the ultimate New Year's Eve. The fudge on top of the cherry, on top of the fudge experiences in NYC. Yea, it's that big. You can be right there in Times Square being gloriously squished between thousands of strangers watching the ball drop and loving it!

All thanks to Hpnotiq's SparkleLouder Contest.
 
Hpnotiq challenges you to upload a pic showing how you plan to Sparkle Louder on New Year’s Eve - whether it’s a glam outfit, you with your girlfriends or a selfie. Then use Hpnotiq’s “SparkleLouder” app to make your photo shine! 

We are fun people that just "sparkle"

After you visit the app, just upload your picture from your computer, Facebook or Instagram. Then you can "draw" your sparkle design on your uploaded picture (pink, purple or white!), add a quote if so desire and voila!! I told you, easy peasy. You can even add an extra kick of fun by sharing on Facebook and Twitter using the hashtag #SparkleLouder. 

Have you entered @hpnotiq 's #SparkleLouder contest? Check out my #SparkleLouder pic & enter here: http://t.co/sAIEEocXh4
— Krista (@KristaLeigh8) November 12, 2013

 

Every entry (Each #SparkleLouder picture you upload) gives you more weekly chances to win one of 20 EFFY Diamond & Blue Topaz Rings Sweepstakes Prizes (four each week)! The entry that Sparkles the Loudest will win the Grand Prize: A New Year’ s Eve trip for you and three girlfriends to New York City for a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to see the ball drop in Times Square! (Um, I might be a little be jealous but so happy if one of my readers can win!) The app and contest entry can be found here: http://www.hpnotiq.com/SparkleLouderContest  Hpnotiq’s SparkleLouder contest runs from November 4 through December 8, 2013!


Now down to what I'll be wearing this New Year's Eve. I think it's always important to have a little Swarvoski crystal in your hair like I dazzled on my wedding day in the above picture. And add a little fun with sunglasses or props to truly kick up the Sparkle for your New Year's Eve with a side of a Hpnotiq cocktail, of course. 

 Oh, and sometimes it helps to add a handsome husband to the mix as I'm dancing next to above. But now on to real life, where I sadly can't wear my wedding dress out New Year's Eve.
  
Since I will be celebrating my first New Year's Eve as a Mrs. sans wedding dress, I figure I better glam it up a bit even if I can't win this awesome prize to NYC. Take a break from my usual jeans and sweater routine. Add that sparkle and shine. Here are a few of my favorites. I'm feeling the red this year (Might be a little coincidental..or hopeful..)

New Year's Eve by krista1482 featuring iphone cases

So what are your plans for New Year's Eve? Favorite way to Sparkle? And did you enter to win yet?!