New Year, New Liz

Like so many of you, I'm terrible at keeping New Year's Resolutions.  In the hopes of realizing each of my resolutions in 2013, I started early!  Yes, I made Christmas Resolutions...

2013 by lizalishus featuring clinique

1) Look amazing at my brother's wedding: Little brother is getting married in May.  While the thought of my younger brother getting married before me is somewhat disheartening, and the fact that the other bridesmaids are all stick figures is confidence crushing, I will work my hardest to deter any pity of my pathetic single status by looking and feeling the best I ever have.

2) Save, save, save: I'm probably going to need a new car in 2013, which means less shoes more saving.  I've struggled with saving from the day I was born.  If I had a quarter in my pocket I was going to spend it.  I'm pretty sure this urge is genetic and passed down directly from my mother.  I'm pretty sure this is going to be the hardest resolution to keep.

3) Love the skin I'm in: I've never really taken care of my skin.  I was blessed with excellent genes which has carried me through for 35 years, but the truth of the matter is that I am 35 years old and my luck is bound to start running out.  After a recent bout with rosacea and sudden breakout on my chin I decided it was time to begin a regimen.

4) No pain, no gain: Supplemental to Resolution #1 I need to start exercising.  I know that diet alone will only get me so far in my weight loss goal, and that moving my ass is the key to success.  

5) Give you what you want: I'm going to be realistic here.  I've said in the past I'm going to try blogging at least 3 times a week.  Well, I've clearly failed at that goal.  In 2013 my plan is to blog once a week, or at least 4 times a month.

I think the overall theme for 2013 is DISCIPLINE.  It's going to be a complete lifestyle change for me, but if I can conquer each goal one step at a time and not expect to change right away I think I'll find success in 2013.

Wishing you and your families a happy, healthy, and prosperous New Year!  xoxo 

 

Every Cloud Has a Silver Lining

Have you ever had one of those days that starts out all rainbows and cupcakes, then takes a hard left to shitsville and never looks back?  Yeah, that was my kind of day yesterday.  I stayed in the city on Thursday night and had to catch the ferry back to work in the morning.  I'm not exactly a fan of public transportation, mainly because I like to be the master of my own destiny, so I had some anxiety about the morning commute.  Well, I caught a cab no problem...made the early ferry with time to spare...ran into my best friend from high school in the terminal...and had an atypically productive morning at work.

And then the clouds rolled in, literally and figuratively.  My afternoon meetings erupted into "hostile negotiations" at best...it started to rain which made my commute home extra painfully slow...and I'm pretty sure the chicken salad I had for lunch was tainted {and the worlds smallest violin plays just for me}

The future looked bleak my friends.  Very bleak indeed.  UNTIL I came home these delightful treats...

Oh joyous of joys my Target Neiman Marcus goodies are here!!!

(Please excuse my bitch face in these pics...like I said, it was a bad day)

 Marc Jacobs scarf: It's a lighter weight so it'll be great year round.  And I love the pop of sparkle on the border

Derek Lam slippers: I mean they're leopard print, do I need to say more???

Carolina Herrera travel bags: The prints are fun and bright, and they're lined so it'll be easy to clean any spills.  Also the middle size fits an iPad perfectly.

Marc Jacobs metallic pouch: This is GORG!!!  Rose gold is a lifelong obsession so this fits in perfectly.

Tory Burch lunch box: This inspires me to start bringing lunch to work instead of buying every day.  Well, almost.  I think I'm going to add a monogram right in the middle.

 Skaist Taylor faux fur vest: It's a little more Lady Gaga than I usually wear, but the quality is amazing and will look A-MAAAH-ZING with all black underneath.

Thom Browne blazer: I bought the men's version because the women's was too cropped for my body shape.  Well, this was the only doozy in the whole bunch.  I feel like I should be welcoming people onto the Love Boat. 

What did you snag from this collection?

NEXT TO ARRIVE: Old Navy Rock Star jeans in sooo many colors...for $19.99 why not indulge in the trend.

Given the Boot

I am perpetually on the hunt for riding boots, or any boots for that matter, that fit my calves.  99% of the time I buy boots that have some sort of elastic goring that will give just enough to fit.  Cole Haan does a great job with these types of boots, and on a recent trip to TJ Maxx I found a pair of Etienne Aigner Chastity wide calf boots that actually ZIPPED UP!!!  I almost cried in the middle of the store.

Well, now I'm on the hunt for brown riding boots.  I've searched high and low for the same EA Chastity boots in brown, or what they call "Banana Bread", but finding a size 10 is like looking for Big Foot.  But, I'm confident that I will find THE perfect boot soon.

Wide Calf Boots by lizalishus featuring leather shoes

Bandolino tall leather boots / Etienne Aigner leather shoes / Etienne Aigner boots / Cole Haan knee high leather boots / Michael Kors knee boots

I'm in Heaven

What were you doing at 6am?  Sleeping?  Pffft...I was SHOPPING!!!  A rare collaboration between 2 retail super powers, and my 2 most favorite stores in the world, Neiman Marcus & Target have collaborated with 24 of the world's most renowned designers to create an amazing array of apparel, accessories, and gifts.  The last time I woke up this early to shop was the Missoni-Target collection last year when Miss Liss and I coordinated an all night stake out and takeover of the website.

I managed to score everything that was on my want list from Derek Lam to Tory Burch.  I can't wait for it all to arrive...please hurry Mr. UPS Man!!!

NM + Target 2012 by lizalishus on Polyvore

NM + Target Faux-Fur Vest - Neiman Marcus / NM + Target Men's Rib-Trim Blazer - Neiman Marcus / NM Target Beverage Container / NM + Target Cheetah-Print Slippers - Neiman Marcus / NM + Target Set of Three Travel Cosmetic Bags - Neiman Marcus / NM Target Metallic Border-Print Scarf / NM + Target Metallic Zip Clutch Bag

The fattest day of the year

I'm heading down to ATL today to spend the holidays with my step-sister and her husband's family. This is my first time meeting his side of the fam so it should make for an interesting couple of days.

Wishing you and all your friends and families a very happy and healthy Thanksgiving...LET'S GET STUFFED!

Weekend Away

After work today I'm driving down to Philly for an overnighter.  I have a tendency to overpack even if it's only for one night, which tends to astound people.  I'm making the every attempt to pack the absolute minimum for this "trip"- one sweater, one pair of shoes, one pair of jeans- EEK!  Hopefully I can get everything, including toiletries, into my large Longchamp tote.

Little Philly by lizalishus featuring kendra scott jewelry

GAP / Forever 21 racer back tank top / H&M striped shirt, $21 / GAP ponte knit legging / Slim pants / Cole Haan leather boots / Kendra Scott jewelry / Forzieri pashmina shawl

Gap Sweater Sale

GAP Sweater Haul by lizalishus on polyvore.com

Forever 21

Forever 21 Haul for Fall 2012 by lizalishus on polyvore.com

I'm Baaaack

I kind of lost my way in this blogging venture over the past year.  I can blame work and life, but it came down to laziness.  During my absence I've been reading tons of fashion blogs, and discovering the black hole that is Pinterest.  Well, these distractions have inspired me to get back on track with my blog.  I'm going through a period of change in my life, work and personal, and I couldn't think of a better time to pick up where I left off but with a new focus:

1. I've become disheartened by the countless blogs written by the thinner than average woman.  You know the type that can fit into anything and have unlimited resources from sponsors and friends in fashion.  I am not one of those women...I'm curvy (or "zaftig" as my Aunt Mitzie so kindly pointed out when I was 15) but more importantly I represent the large population of women that aren't a size 10 and below.  Finding clothes to fit my shape is difficult, and styling them to camouflage my trouble spots is even harder.  My hope for my future fashion posts is to serve as an inspiration for the "average" size woman that style isn't only reserved for size 2.

2.  It's taken 35 years, but I finally accept my body for what it is- plus size, chubby, the aforementioned zaftig.  However, I have put on some weight this year and I'm not comfortable in my clothes.  In an effort to get back in the comfort zone I've started on the Weight Watchers program again.  I'll be tracking my progress on here to keep myself honest.

I doubt I'll be posting every day, but my plan is to post at least 3 times a week as my schedule permits.  Wish me luck!

Nine West Women's Lottie Wedge Bootie - designer shoes, handbags,...

Nine West Women's Lottie Wedge Bootie - designer shoes, handbags,... (clipped to polyvore.com)

Monogrammed Brown Peyton Clutch

Monogrammed Brown Peyton Clutch (clipped to polyvore.com)

Wrap Your Wrist stylish Off White owl bracelet cuff - Design Kleding |...

Wrap Your Wrist stylish Off White owl bracelet cuff - Design Kleding |... (clipped to polyvore.com)

Madewell dress

Madewell dress (see more bodice dresses)

Back to Black

Well, it's official...I've "invested" waaaaaay too much money with Bloomingdale's.  This came in the mail last week

My new Bloomingdale's Black Card.  It came with a book, not a pamphlet, but a book of all the perks that go with it...I'm in deep, deep, deep trouble.  That is all.

Leaping Lizards!

Happy Birthday to all you Leap Year babies!

Meatballs and Muscle

My baby, Black Spot, is in the shop to get it's bumper fixed after some moron ran into me at a stop sign...stupid a-hole, but I digress...  While my car is in the shop I have a rental, a Kia Sorrento.  It's not often I have access to an SUV so I made the most of it and ventured to IKEA.  There are few things I've been needing for my apartment but never had the carry space.

I'm usually pretty handy with an IKEA instruction manual, but this time I had a real time of it.  I got about here when I realized 2 of the main pieces were on backwards.

After 3 hours, a little bit of blood, and lots of muscle I finished my new vanity and bookcase.

Leksvik desk, Tobias chair, & Myken mirror

 

 

Billy bookcase

I wish someone was around to record me trying to lug these boxes around by myself.  I don't recommend going to IKEA solo if you're looking for furniture.  A trip to IKEA isn't complete without some meatballs!  My faves.

I stopped for a snack in the cafe, and bought a bag to munch on at home with Lingonberry jelly. NOM!

Pink Ladies

I think it's safe to say that my Spring color story is 100% in the PINK! I'm not sure what's come over me, but I'm ob-sessed with hot pink.  Mostly in accessories since I'm still not very comfortable with color, but I'm trying.

Gap

I've seen a few other bloggers purchase this blazer in a variety of colors, but the pink is great for work and weekends...obviously it had to be mine.

 I've be sporting this hot pink pashmina for years...it was a gift from Harrod's, my favorite place in the world.

Nordtsrom

 And we all know about my RIDIC fuschia fascinator, I think I might actually have a reason to wear it this weekend...stay tuned.

Target

Who can resist a scarf covered in giraffes, I mean seriously!?!

Cole Haan Air Sadie

And finally, these came in the mail yesterday.  They're blindingly bright, and get me in the mood for Spring to arrive.

Oh man...not another VD!

Happy Valentines Day!

DROOL WORTHY

Ummmmm...is it hot in here?  Holy majoly this is HOT!

A little slice of heaven

My love, Mr. David Beckham, will be gracing the March 2012 cover of Men's Health Magazine.  Apparently he was never looking for fame or fortune, but rather he just loved the game and wanted to play.  I love that!  In fact that's one of the things that I love most about the Beckhams- despite their wealth and fame they still manage to be "normal", for lack of a better word, and maintain a great sense of humor.  Now if only he can convince Victoria to reunite the Spice Girls at the 2012 London Olympics (sigh).

HELLO GORGEOUS!

A t-shirt that says it all

I know it's been an altered photo, but I love it anyway.

1st & Goal

For the NY Giants it's come down to this Sunday.  Who will face the Patriots (I'm sorry Baltimore, but Flacco and the birds don't stand a chance) at the Superbowl on February 5th?  Who will be the NFC Champion???  My money will always be on Eli and the G-Men.  I'll be attending an anxiety ridden viewing party at my favorite local watering hold armed with Xanax, Miller Lite, and a lucky panda sticker (long story, but it seems to be working).  But whatever will I wear?

GO BIG BLUE by lizbit77 featuring off the shoulder tops

Off the shoulder top, $4.99
Victoria s secret, $49
Boots, $26
Knit hat, $20
New York Giants Tervis Tumbler 16 oz Cup w/ Lid, $4.99
Jason Pierre-Paul Jersey - Pierre-Paul New York Giants Replica Reebok..., $28
Littlearth New York Giants Canvas Tailgate Tote - NFLShop.com, $30
Gametime New York Giants Women's Glitz Watch - NFLShop.com, $32

Miss Liss sports these crazy ridiculous boots, and I'll admit that 1) I am guilty of showing them to her in the first place and 2) if they came in black I'd probably own them too.  I wonder what it must be like to work in the licensing department of an NFL team, because they will put a team name on ANYTHING...

via

 

 

Ok, I'll admit these guys are kinda cute.

via

 I guess this beast goes in a "man cave"

via

 I mean really...a level?

Hold the phone...

...is Willem Dafoe sexy???  It's amazing what happens when you put a man in Prada (F/W 2012).

via

Tying the Knot

Everyone who knows me knows that I'm obsessed with my scarves.  I recently came across this video that has introduced to me to sooooo many new options for wearing my never ending supply of scarves:

I've been working the "Magic Trick" for a few weeks now after having seen it on another blog, and I get so many compliments on it. I can't wait to wear my scarf in a new fangled style tomorrow...hopefully I don't get tangled up too badly.  I'll be sure to post pics as I try them out.

Flying Solo

So as I mentioned previously, I bought my brother this rad ice tray for Hanukkah...

What I failed to mention is that I bought one for me too!  Last night I needed a break from laundry and cleaning so I decided to make some mini Han Solos frozen in dark chocolate, and they came out AWESOME!!!

I think these little treats call for a Star Wars viewing party so I can give these out as favors.  Who's in???

Ring-A-Ding-Ding

I'm happy to say I survived New Years Eve in D.C. Although, not all in one piece. While snacking on a pretzel rod I broke my tooth! Luckily it was my tooth with the root canal or I would've been in miserable pain until it got fixed. But I didn't let a little dental calamity dampen my mood.

Saturday morning we got up and headed straight to Chick-fil-a for a chicken biscuit breakfast feast...oh how I've missed you little chickies.

Then we made our way into D.C. to the International Spy Museum for some James Bond action.

My alias

The best part was definitely the gift shop...where we decided to officially kick off MUSTACHE NEW YEARS!!!

After lunch and a nap, we made our way to our New Year's dinner at Zaytinya...and let me tell you, it was DEEEEELISH!!!

me, Ange, Miss Liss, and Spy Bly

I'm still waiting for the perfect fascinator moment

 "Waiter, there's a hair in my food."

I honestly don't know how we didn't wind up picking up Miss Liss at the police station...or more likely in her case the hospital.

Miss Liss and I drove back up Sunday just in time to watch the Giants v. Cowboys game, and what a game it was...WAY TO GO G-MEN!!!

I hope you guys had a fun (but safe) New Year's...only 8 days into 2012 and I'm already ready for this year to end!?!?!