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Friday, June 16, 2017

Snapshots: Disney x Coach Outlet


The Disney x Coach Outlet collection as EXPLODED in the Disney Instagram community. I had originally shopped the original collection online at Coach's website and picked up a small red crossbody bag and a little Mickey hang tag. Luckily I had picked up the bag at a discount as it was on sale on their website when they were trying to clear out the collection. But, when I saw they had created another collection, at outlet prices, I knew I had to stop by my Coach Outlet store. 


So, my mom and I headed to the outlet mall to shop the collection when I learned Coach was doing 50% off your entire purchase, which included the Mickey collection. When we first walked into the store they had a huge Disney section. It took up most of the front half of the store. There were a ton of different shapes and sizes of bags being offered in the collection. I saw the same shape of my original Coach x Disney bag offered as well, but with the new Mickey logos. 

Basically, the main difference between the bags from the original collection and the outlet collection was the Mickey's on the bags. These Mickey's were honestly kind of more fun the original ones showcased on the bags. Most bags were offered in either a yellow, red, brown, black, or white leather. They all had different Mickey's on them, except the white and black shared the same Mickey. 


Some pieces were more edgy then the original pieces. Patch accents, studs, and bandanas were just some of the additional embellishments I noticed. Also, the collection had a more bad boy edge to it. For example, Mickey riding a motorcycle or a skate board versus him just standing or posing. They were super fun touches that made the collection just a little different, but still classic Mickey. 


Around the outside of the Coach store were fun little sidewalk decals showing off the collection. Props to Coach because I think it caught a lot of people's attention who may not have known about the collection. 

Shopping at the store wasn't as hectic as I expected. My Coach store used to be super small, but they recently upgraded to a larger location. So, it is much more organized, spacious, and upscale. There were a few people going crazy over the collection, but most people were purchasing one or two Disney x Coach items. My mom and I both got two pieces (we literally bought the exact same thing), but it seemed most people were just picking up 1-2 items per person. 


As for what I picked up, I selected this brown saddle bag shape with this ADORABLE Mickey! He was by far my favorite Mickey offered in this collection. Also, I love the classic brown leather and this shape. This is Coach's signature shape so I found this combination of the Mickey, color, and style was the most classic and neutral. I wanted something I could carry around day-to-day not just at the parks. Since I purchased it I've carried it around quite a bit! It's a great small crossbody bag, but it has a lot of useful pockets and features. My favorite part is there is a small pocket on the outside where you can slide your phone in and out of for easy access. 

I also picked up a little zipped wristlet wallet thing.... I'm not 100% sure what to call it. But, It is great to throw into smaller bags as a wallet, or to use as a mini wristlet if you just need some credit cards and very small essentials. It doesn't fit a phone, so it is more like a wallet, but it is super cute! I opted for the red shade with Mickey riding a motorcycle for something different and fun compared to my neutral purse. 


Supposedly the collection is only going to be available until early June. SO, if you really want to get your hands on something go now!! Call ahead to make sure they still have items in store! 

I hope you enjoyed this look into the collection! Did you shop the Disney x Coach Outlet collection? Let me know what you picked up in the comments below! 
XOXO 
Miranda 
This is NOT sponsored by Coach! I just wanted to share the collection and my thoughts on the collection! 

Wednesday, June 14, 2017

Snapshots: Hello Kitty Cafe Chicago!


Did anyone else have a childhood obsession with Hello Kitty? Just me......? I hope not because I was so excited to get to go to the Hello Kitty traveling cafe in their Chicago location. Luckily, the location was only 30 min away from me at the mall I normally shop at, Oakbrook. I missed the cafe last year, so when I saw they were coming again I knew I had to go! 


In case you have zero idea what I am talking about, the Hello Kitty Cafe is a traveling little food truck that has adorable hello kitty treats and some merchandise for purchase. Keep up with where they are at on the Hello Kitty Cafe Facebook page! The cafe is small but if you are a Hello Kitty fan it is a can't miss opportunity. I loved seeing the adorable little pink van with all of its adorable decorations! 

Tip: If you get there early you can take a ton of pictures of the van without anyone around! 

We arrived at the truck early Saturday morning to get in line. We waited about 1 1/2 and it really wasn't too bad. They actually opened the truck about 10 min early which was super nice. The line moved decently quickly, but there were some people taking extra time to take photos and what not at the window. 

I picked up my treats, then picked up my mug at a separate tent where the merchandise was organized. Then I took some pictures in front of the van with my treats and was on my way. The process was pretty simple for, no drama or issues. Based on the reviews I was reading I was prepared for the worst, but I had a very great experience at the Hello Kitty Cafe! 

Tip: Pay cash if possible! You can avoid juggling your goodies and signing the iPad at the truck window. 

I purchased the cookie set, macaron set, a bow water bottle, and a ceramic mug. These were all items I planned on purchasing! With a $25 food purchase (not including mugs or t-shirts) you got a fun little re-usable tote bag, which I couldn't resist. With the mug I got a free little sticker and a button as well. I read some reviews that people were pissed they little merchandise, but I was happy with my cute little mug. 

Tip: Wear something pink or Hello Kitty theme for super cute photos with the truck!

What I wore: 
Top: J Crew 
Jeans: American Eagle 
Shoes: Jack Rogers 
Purse: Louis Vuitton Speedy 25 
Earrings: J Crew


Planning on attending a Hello Kitty Cafe event in your city? Here are a few of my tips to survive the experience, and to get all of the items you want..... 
  1. Get there EARLY! I was reading some reviews of last years cafe and it said there were lines like crazy, so we showed up around 8:30 for a 10am start for the cafe. The line at the Chicago location was not bad at all when we arrived at 8:30, I'd say about 20-30 people in front of us. I felt confident that I would get the items I wanted, and would just get items in general! Some reviews said that people waited in line and didn't get anything! So, I may have overacted with getting there so early, but I'd rather be safe then sorry. 
  2. Know what you want to purchase! The line would have moved sooooo much faster if people were prepared with what they wanted to get. There is a small sign they set out with the options (there weren't too many to be honest) of treats and merchandise for purchase. Take a peek at it when you arrive so you are prepared once you get up there! 
  3. Don't RE-SELL! I read so many terrible reviews that people bought 5+ of each item to just re-sell them on eBay. Don't be that person! Let everyone have their chance to get a treat. So many reviews said they waited in line with their kids and didn't get anything for their daughters, that is so sad! If you really want to re-sell items, at least wait until those who are there to get their treats purchase what they want before you purchase mass quantities. 
  4. Understand it might sell out...... Luckily I didn't experience this, but the truck is bound to sell out at some point. It is a tiny van not a semi-truck filled with goodies. They can only carry so much. So, just try and get there early to ensure you get all the items on your wishlist! 
  5. There is always next time. It appears that this tour is going to be happening every year. The truck came to Chicago last year and this year so I predict they will keep doing tours if they are successful! At the end of the day it is just treats, so just remember there will be more opportunities in the future to go to a Hello Kitty Cafe!



We hung around the mall a while after we finished at the cafe and the line was always busy, but was never out of control. It looked like it was moving quickly, and there was still merchandise to be purchased. I cannot speak for later hours (the cafe was open until 8pm), but from 10-Noon ish the line seemed very manageable! Luckily, most of the people in line were people who knew of the event. Most people weren't just walking around the mall and hopping in line. 


As for the prices of the items at the cafe most treats were $12-15 each and the bow water bottle was $3. My mug was around $13 then the t-shirt I believe was $27. So, decently reasonable prices for what you get. I recommend getting the cookies because they were individually wrapped, so you could save some for later! 


Hopefully this post helped you if you are looking to attend a Hello Kitty Cafe tour location! Have you visited a Hello Kitty Cafe? Let me know your experience in the comments! 
XOXO 
Miranda 

Monday, June 12, 2017

How I use my Erin Condren Life Planner!


    I recently received the new Erin Condren 2018 Life Planner to help me stay organized. Expect a full review coming soon! But, today I'm sharing with you how I use my Erin Condren planner. During one year I usually use multiple planners, all for different reasons. As for my Erin Condren, I use this planner to decorate and more of a memory keeper then to strictly stay organized. 


    When I say "decorate my planner" I mean through stickers. In case you didn't know, there is a whole world of planner stickers on Etsy and a ton of Youtubers who do videos on planner decorating. If you were a kid who loved stickers and sticker books this is the grown-up version of that obsession! There are a ton of Etsy shops and small business owners who create hand drawn stickers and decor for your planner. In the spread above I used all Erin Condren stickers! I received this sheet as a free gift with my purchase because I sign up for their emails. But, you can also purchase stickers books from Erin Condren's website that you can use as well. In addition, stores like Hobby Lobby and Michaels sell their own planner stickers. So there are many ways to decorate your planner. 

    Or, you can keep things simple! If using sticky notes and colored pens work better for you, do that. The great thing about Erin Condren planners are that they are totally customizable and you can do what is best for YOU. That is what planning is all about. I'm influenced by some planner influencers, but I have my own unique style of planning and how I like things. So, create your own style and find out what you like in your planner. Whether that is with stickers, sticky notes, fun pens, highlighters, or printing little photos to include! Whatever you choose to do just make sure it fits for your life. 


    Hopefully this post gives you a better idea on how I use my Erin Condren Life Planner! If you have any questions about planning leave them in the comments below, I'd love to help! 
    XOXO 
    Miranda 

    Friday, June 9, 2017

    What I wore: Pool Day


    I have never splurged on a swimsuit. Like ever. Personally, I never wear swimsuits enough to spend a lot on them. Besides the occasional spring break trip and trip to the pool (maybe twice a summer), I'm not a swimsuit kind of gal. I've always picked up my suits from Aerie, Victoria's Secret (RIP to their originally swim suits), and Target. But, that all changed when I saw this swimsuit. 


    I found this swimsuit in Florida at Everything But Water. Everything But Water is kind of a high end swim suit boutique that has a ton of one-pieces plus bikinis. They kind of have something for everyone. Whether you are in your 20's or 40's or 50's! But, they are a bit pricey, compared to what I normally spend on a swimsuit. 


    But, my family is planning a trip to Hawaii soon and I knew I wanted to get a high quality suit for that trip. So when I saw this one on the mannequin I knew I had to try it on. Of course when I trie dit on it fit like a glove, I'm wearing an XS, and I just had to get it. The brand of the suit is Becca and I believe it is available at other retailers beside Everything But Water. One piece suits are super in right now so I had to see what the fuss was about. Let's just say they are so up to the hype! I love this suit! It's been a long time since I've worn a one piece, but I have to say they are super flattering. 


    This suit has a ton of gorgeous detailing. The low neckline is gorgeous and has some sheer lace like fabric. It also has some unique looking cut outs. 



    The back has this great cut out detail as well. But, it has some support with the back little tie. The butt isn't a cheeky bottom, which I like. Sometimes when you're at a family friendly pool you want to make sure you are properly covered up! 


    As for cover-ups I'm a pretty simple gal. I normally just wear t-shirts and running shorts. Nothing crazy. I do have a J. Crew little tunic top I paired with this suit that looked super cute! You don't need a fancy coverup to head to the beach or pool. 



    Where it's from: 
    Swimsuit: Everything But Water (direct link!)
    Sunglasses: Ray Bans
    Location: Fiddlers Creek pool


    Where are your favorite places to get swimsuits? Let me know in the comments! 
    XOXO 
    Miranda 

    Tuesday, June 6, 2017

    OOTD: Tale as Old as Time


    I'm mixing up Wednesdays post for a Tuesday post because.... the Beauty and the Beast live action film is released today on DVD! As you all know, I am a huge Beauty and the Beast fan. So, in honor of the release I have a fun Disney inspired look that is perfect for everyday wear. 


    The main feature of this look is this amazing completely custom denim jacket. This jacket has kind of a cool story. I saw it at the Disney Springs Levi store and I fell in love. It was pricey but I loved it and kept thinking about it after I saw it. I ended up purchasing the jacket on my last day in Disney, literally an hour before we left for the airport! Turns out I found the artist who created my jacket on Instagram. Sugar Sews creates 100% custom embroidered denim jackets. Her work is truly incredible. I was so excited to find her on social media and to thank her for my incredible jacket. It kind of combines everything I love about Beauty and the Beast. Chip and Mrs. Potts are my favorite characters, I love French, and it has my favorite color purple! It truly worked out that it was in my size and fit me perfectly. 


    So, although I picked up this jacket at Disney Springs, if you'd love a custom jacket like this you are in luck! Sugar does custom orders through her website and you can create ANYTHING you want! Even if you aren't a Disney fan she can create anything. 

    Just so you know, this isn't a sponsored post. I just really admire Sugar's work and more importantly I wanted to show off my amazing jacket that I am in love with. Sadly I couldn't snap any pictures of it at Disney, because I bought it on my last day. But, I wanted to share it because it is so amazing! 


    I love styling this jacket with my collection of Beauty and the Beast themed pins. These little buttons are from Box Lunch then the coffee cup pin is from Parkbound Buttons. Box Lunch is an amazing store that carries a ton of pop culture items, including Disney! I've gotten a ton of stuff from them recently. Adding pins or flair to any denim jacket is a great way to customize it and make it your own. 


    I love wearing a denim jacket to spice up a super simple outfit like this. A simple tan skirt with a white tee allows this statement jacket to stand out and make a statement. Not to mention Levi denim jackets are super thick and durable, which makes them great for throwing on for colder summer nights or for the fall and spring. I've been wearing denim jackets a lot recently. I had a super old one in my closet that I am now wearing on repeat. The great thing about denim jackets are that if you have a great classic one, it will never go out of style! 


    Where it's from: 
    Denim Jacket: Custom Levi denim jacket from Sugar Sews (purchased at Levi store @ Disney Springs) 
    Skirt: J. Crew 
    Shirt: J. Crew 
    Sneakers: Adidas (Nordstrom) 
    Buttons: Box Lunch
    Pin: Parkbound Buttons 
    Bracelets: Pandora, Alex and Ani 


    Are you excited for the release of the Beauty and the Beast movie??! Let me know if you've seen it in the comments below! 
    XOXO 
    Miranda 

    Monday, June 5, 2017

    OOTD: Salty Hair Don't Care


    Salty hair don't care! Literally, after a ride in the convertible and the beach breeze my hair was going crazy. But, it is so worth it to walk along Marco Island beach. The Marco beach is my favorite beach of all time! With clear water and white sand it is the perfect vacation destination. 



    For a simple lunch on the water and a walk on the beach I threw on this cute J. Crew white tee that has an adorable bow detail. It ties in the front and it spices up the otherwise plain white tee. To add a pop of color I paired the tee with pastel purple chino shorts, also from J. Crew. 


    Again, in the summer I keep my accessories pretty simple. Especially on the beach, you don't want to be weighed down by heavy earrings or necklaces. I paired this look with a simple gold necklace, my normal bracelet stack, and a pair of pearl studs. 


    Chino shorts and a tee is kind of my go-to summer uniform. It's so easy to throw on and is just an effortless look. Not to mention I prefer chino shorts over your basic denim shorts. They look a little more polished and I find them super comfortable. 


    Where it's from: 
    Shirt: J Crew 
    Shorts: J Crew 
    Bracelets: Alex and Ani, Pandora 
    Sunglasses: Ray Bans
    Location: Marco Island Beach




    Friday, June 2, 2017

    OOTD: Monkey in the Middle


    I love love love this two-piece set and Lilly Pulitzer print! The print features adorable little monkeys and other tropical animals in this gorgeous purple color. My favorite color is purple, so naturally this set has become my favorite Lilly piece I own. Plus this two piece has the cutest silhouette and shape. 


    I wore this fun two-piece set to my senior formal, but I am not afraid to re-wear my favorite Lilly pieces. *Lizzie McGuire you are an outfit repeater!* But, not really, one thing I love to do is finding new ways to wear pieces over and over again. I changed up this look by swapping nude high heels with a fun pair of brown lace up wedges, c/o of my mom's closet! I kept accessories simple with a dainty gold necklace and pearl earrings instead of a bold statement earring. Just with accessories you can completely change the way you wear something. To make this a more casual look I'd wear a pair of sandals and throw on a denim jacket. 


    I wore this fun two-piece to my favorite restaurant in Naples, Florida Continental. It's the best place to get a steak in Naples. We dined earlier then usual and got to eat off the price fix menu, which was great. I opted for the steak and lobster dinner and it was delicious! 


    Continental is a fancier restaurant, hence my dressed up appearance. Dressing up this two-piece is easy with a fun pair of wedges. Before dinner we did some light shopping, but these wedges were super comfortable so they carried me throughout the evening. 



    I love the flare detail to these shorts. The fabric is a neoprene material so it makes the set super comfortable. It's oddly super soft too! It's a great outfit for a hot Florida day. 





    Where it's from: 
    Two-piece set: Lilly Pulitzer 
    Shoes: REPORT (Nordstrom Rack) 
    Bag: Louis Vuitton 
    Sunglasses: Ray Bans 
    Bracelets: Alex and Ani, Pandora 
    Location: Downtown Naples 3rd Street 


    What is your favorite Lilly print? I'm loving this one! Let me know in the comments! 
    XOXO 
    Miranda