essie Archives - Page 4 of 5 - Popcorn and Pandas

Preppy With A Twist {Guilty Jean Series #2}

Here is my 2nd look from the Guilty Jean photo shoot over the weekend. I was definitely enjoying the sunshine on this beautiful, glorious Saturday! For this look, I purposefully chose the same Guilty Jean jewelry pieces as my last outfit post to show how versatile this line can be. Even if you don’t see yourself as someone who is “edgy” or “punk rock,” you can still glam up your look with Guilty Jean’s designs. This particular look gives the preppy business casual girl a little edge. I love how these pieces work so well with a variety of different personal styles, and I plan to rock these jewels no matter what I’m wearing!

Photos by: Zack Notes / Edited by: Myself

Yellow Button Down: GAP / Blazer: GAP / Jeans: Motherhood Maternity / Pretty Little Evil Necklace: c/o Guilty Jean (on sale!) / Turquoise Bracelet: c/o Guilty Jean (on sale!) / Sinner & Saint Bracelet: c/o Guilty Jean (on sale!) / Clutch: Express – similar / Sparkly Flats: Nordstrom Rack / Watch: Michael Kors / Ring: Banana Republic – similar here and here / Sunglasses: Ann Taylor LOFT / Lip: Mix of MAC Candy Yum-Yum and Lancome Fuchsia Clutch / Nails: Essie Smokin’ Hot

Hope everyone is enjoying their week so far! I have been busy busy, so I am looking forward to a little R&R tonight.

XOXO,

Gina

Spring Has Sprung {Guilty Jean Series #1}

Here is the first outfit post from my Guilty Jean series, and this is one of my favorite looks of the bunch. The weather was gorgeous for the first time this spring, and I was clearly loving it! This look is girly, flirty, and fun, but definitely has a bit of edge as well. When I found this dress and floral crown, I immediately couldn’t wait to add my Guilty Jean jewelry to complete the look. I love how the skull and bow necklace sits at the perfect length, and the pop of turquoise on the bracelet is a perfect compliment to the pink and black color palette. Spring has finally sprung!

Photos by: Zack Notes / Edited by: Myself

Dress: Hot Topic (on sale!) / Jacket: Macy’s / Shoes: Betsey Johnson / Pretty Little Evil Necklace: c/o Guilty Jean (on sale!) / Turquoise Bracelet: c/o Guilty Jean (on sale!) / Skull and Cross Bracelet: c/o Guilty Jean (on sale!) / Ring: Forever 21 / Floral Crown: Urban Outfitters / Eyes: Make Up Forever – Lid: No 26 Fuchsia – Crease: No 58 Dark Raspberry – Brow: No 303 Diamond Pink / Lip: Mix of MAC Candy Yum-Yum and Lancome Fuchsia Clutch / Nails: Essie Smokin’ Hot

Of course, now that I am back in New York, I am feeling much chillier temps this week. I am eager for that sunny, warm weather I experienced in Maryland this past weekend! Come back to me!

This week has been a bit busy with unpacking, eating Easter leftovers, a girl’s night, and tonight I have photography class. Hope you are all having a good week so far!

XO,

Gina

Easter Favorites

In celebration of Easter this weekend, I wanted to share some of my favorite things about the holiday.

1. Dyeing Eggs:

Nothing like the old school dye tablets in the vinegar. My family has been dyeing our eggs with Paas since before I can remember.

2. Peeps

My absolute favorite Easter Basket treat. My trick for getting them to stay softer longer is to keep them in a ziplock bag. Of course, you can always pop them in the microwave to warm them up. Just make sure it’s only for a few seconds or else they blow up! Oh yeah, and the chicks are my favorite.

marshmallow_peeps — Photo Credit: The New Forty blog

3. Potato Salad

This dish is served at our Easter table every year, and it’s something I look forward to. It’s simple, yet delicious! Here is a recipe I found on Pinterest from Key Ingredient that is most similar to the one we use. This one only serves 4, so you’ll have to pump it up if you have a large gathering!

4. Floral Dresses

My sister and I used to get dressed up in the most frilly floral dresses for church every Easter. Although some years it’s tough because of chilly weather, I still love to put on a floral or spring-like dress to celebrate the occasion. Here is a gorgeous vintage style floral dress I discovered on ModCloth:

5. Pastel Polish

Easter is the perfect time to switch up your polish from darker hues to pastels. Essie is my favorite nail polish brand, and here is their Spring 2013 Collection for sale at Kohl’s:

What are your Easter and holiday favorites? Would love to hear what you have to share.

Wishing everyone a Happy Friday and a Happy Easter this weekend! For those celebrating Passover, I hope you are having a great holiday as well.

XO,

Gina

Turquoise Tights

These shots were taken last weekend before heading out to our little karaoke night. So much fun by the way! Mr. Biggs seriously has the BEST karaoke in the city in terms of talent. Although your average Joe (ahem me) might be a little uncomfortable getting up there to sing after someone belts out “Diamonds” almost as good as Rihanna. Seriously, I’m not lying. This place has some amazing talent, and considering there is no cover charge, it’s like getting a free Broadway quality performance every time I go. Fortunately, my girl Melissa and I don’t care if we aren’t as good as the rest. We just say, “Even though we may not have quite the singing talent they do, we can sure put on a hell of a show!”

Photos by: Zack Notes

Dress: Mystique Boutique (old) / Tights: Target / Jacket: Wilson’s Leather – similar on sale! / Booties: Go Jane – similar here (Donald J Pliner), here (Sam Edelman) and here (Target) / Clutch: NY & Co – similar / Panda Ring: nOir Jewelry / Watch: Betsey Johnson / Bracelets: Oja Jules and gift from cousin / Lip: Lancome Fuchsia Clutch / Nails: Essie Marshmallow

It’s FRIDAY!!! And guess what that means? GIRLS WEEKEND IN BROOKLYN! The hubby is heading out of town after work today to hang with his college rugby buddies in DC, and my girls from Maryland are coming up for a Brooklyn weekend! Yayy! This will be the first true girl’s weekend since moving into our Brooklyn apartment (which has now been over a year). So excited to get some quality girl time with good friends.

What are you up to this weekend?

XO,

Gina

Sir Mix A Lot

Here is the full outfit from my lunch date you saw on the blog yesterday. This post is all about mixing. I have mixed pretty much everything you can imagine here–colors, prints, metals, hard spikes with soft bows–yet somehow it all seems to come together and work. Although mixing can seem a little bit intimidating, it is a great way to get the most out of your wardrobe. The more combinations, the more outfits to rock. For some ideas on how to mix prints, check out this “How To” from Refinery 29.

Photos by: Zack Notes

Sweater: GAP / Tank: J. Crew / Pants: H&M / Bag: ALDO – similar / Shoes: Nordstrom Rack / Coat: Tulle via Nordstrom – similar / Watch: Michael Kors / Bracelets: BaubleBar and ASOS / Necklace: Family Heirloom / Lip: MAC Venomous Villains Cruella de Vil Heartless / Nails: Essie Marshmallow

All That Glitters is Gold

Photos By: Zack Notes

Glittery Top: Forever 21 / (Faux) Leather Leggings: Strawberry / Jacket: Macy’s – similar at Old Navy / Shoes: ALDO / Earrings: Aldo / Necklace: Forever 21 / Watch: Betsey Johnson / Spike Bracelet: ASOS / Buckle Bracelet: Wanderlust + Co. / Ring: c/o nOir Jewelry / Nails: Essie Metallics Good as Gold / Lip: Smashbox Maven

A fun little look to get you excited for the weekend! I’m looking forward to dinner with friends, a birthday celebration, and some karaoke. How about you?

Happy Friday!

XO,

Gina

A Bright New Year

The bright color contrast between this sweater and necklace just make me happy! I was also very excited to sport my new Michael Kors watch for the first time as well as my spike bracelet. Thanks Mom/Dad and hubby for the Christmas presents! The gold nail polish is left over from the festivities of the New Year, but I think it may end up being a favorite this winter.

Photos by: Zack Notes

Sweater: GAP – similar here and here / Pants: ZARA / Shoes: Nine West – pretty alternative / Bubble Necklace: Cheerfully Charmed – similar / Rose Gold Watch: Michael Kors via Nordstrom / Bow Bracelet: BaubleBar / Spike Bracelet: ASOS / Nails: Essie Metallics Good as Gold

Happy Thursday everyone! Did anyone happen to catch the 2013 Oscar Nominees this morning? ParaNorman has been nominated for best animated feature. YAY! My company represents the studio who produced the film in the commercial world, so we are very excited over here today.

Speaking of the movies, I have been spending a lot of time there lately. First, I saw This is 40, which although I think was lacking in plot, made up for that fact by being extremely funny. I donned this get-up over the weekend to head to the theatre to see another Oscar Nominated film, Les Miserables. Of course, you know already how much I adored this film. Lastly, I attended a special screening on Monday hosted by the Tribeca Film Institute called Cutie and the Boxer. A lovely documentary about a Japenese artist couple. The couple has both passion for their work as well as each other. The dynamic between the two artists was just hilarious and adorable all at the same time. The film will be premiering at Sundance this year.

What movies have you seen lately, and what are you faves?

XO,

Gina

Winter White

This ivory jacket and polka dot tights were amongst some of my favorite Christmas gifts I received this year. Paired with an ivory and gold shimmery dress and a gold clutch, this made for the perfect New Year’s Eve outfit this year. I also had the opportunity to break out my old wedding shoes for the first time since the big day. Who knew I would be ever wearing these babies again?

Photo by: Zack Notes

Ivory Coat: Express (sold out) – other ivory coats I adore from Nordstrom (here and here), Theory via Saks, Michael by Michael Kors via Victoria’s Secret, and Victoria’s Secret / Dress: Forever 21 / Tights: Madewell (currently on sale!) / Shoes: Nina (brides, there is a ridiculous sale on these beauties!) / Sunnies: Ann Taylor LOFT / Clutch: (old) / Bow Bracelet: BaubleBar / Bow Earrings: ALDO / Necklace and Rings: Family gifts / Lip: Lancome Groupie / Nails: Essie Metallics Good as Gold

Had a fantastic time this past weekend in the city. Friday, I said my farewells to a good friend who is moving back to Connecticut to go to grad school. My second bedroom is open whenever you want to come visit!

Saturday hung out with the hubs during the day, made some yummy breakfast, took down the Christmas tree (wahhh), and…wait for it…went to see Les Mis!!! Oh my gosh, it was so amazing. Bring your tissues! I have never seen the show, so I didn’t really know what to expect other than that it would be quite depressing. However, I really enjoyed the movie, and thought Anne Hathaway had a spectacular performance. After the film, I met up with a few friends in the East Village, and ended the night with the deliciousness of Pomme Frites. If you have not been here, this place is a must for fabulous french fries dipped in more sauces than you could ever imagine. Yum!

Sunday, the boy and I got in an awesome workout at the gym, went to Home Depot to pick out some paint colors for a new DIY project (and by DIY, I mean my cousin will be DIYing for us haha), and finally sat down to a fabulous home cooked meal while watching the Redskins game. Unfortunately, our team did not pull out a win, but they gave a valiant effort. Some decisions were pretty questionable, but what can you do. The Skins had a great season, so still HAILING!

Hope you all have a great week!

XO,

Gina

‘Tis The Season for Giving

‘Tis the season for giving! Since I already shared my holiday wish list, I thought I would provide some helpful ideas to think about when shopping for loved ones this year. I assume most of us have started at least perusing, but for those of you who haven’t quite gotten into the holiday spirit, maybe this inspiration board will give you a little jump start. Whether you are shopping for your mom, dad, husband, wife, best friend, or boss, I hope you can find something on this list your family and friends will enjoy.

For…

1. The Sister or Best Friend: Floral necklace from Baublebar

2. The Hipster: Nerd Glasses from boohoo.com

3. The Make-Up Hoarder: Urban Decay Naked 2 Eyeshadow Palette from Sephora

4. The Party Girl/Boy: Corkcicle from Uncommon Goods

5. Hostest with the Mostest: Darkest Night Red Wine Balloon Glass from Mikasa®

6. The Ski Bunny: Coal Creme Pom Pom Beanie Hat from Zumiez.com

7. The Sassy Girl: Essie Nail Polish from Target

8. The Bicyclist: RED Trace Audio Classic Helmet from Zumiez.com (Also works for skating, skiing, and snowboarding)

9. The Future Photographer: Vintage Toy Camera Onsie from Etsy

10. The Glamour Girl: MAC Russian Red Lipstick from Nordstom

11. The Dad, Hubby, or the Music Junkie: Big Blue Studio Wireless Bluetooth Speaker from Brookstone

12. For Sister or The Organizer: Kate Spade Wallet from Piperlime

13. The Mom, Grandma, or Someone Sweet: Amazing Grace Set from Philosophy

14. The Athlete: Pure Balance Water Bottle from Lululemon (made of glass covered in silicone, so no BPA!)

15. The Boss: Steve Jobs Biography from Barnes and Noble

16. The Tea Drinker: Breville Ikon Electric Tea Kettle from Gracious Home

17. The Cold Weather City Dweller: Volcom Earmuffs from Swell

18. The Coffee Addict or The Comedian: Mustache Mug from Customized Girl

Happy Shopping!

XO,

Gina

Marvelous Mustard

Mustard Blazer: Piperlime by Tinley Road / Blouse: Piperlime by Ark & Co. / Jeans: Seven for All Mankind / Sequined Ballet Flats: Nine West Outlet / Chevron Ring Stack: BaubleBar / Bracelets: J. Crew, BaubleBar (black sold out – in light blue or light pink), BaubleBar, Wanderlust + Co / Lip: Lancome All Done Up / Nails: Essie Over the Edge

I’ve been scouring the world wide web for a yellow blazer, and I finally found the perfect one at Piperlime! As much as I love going shopping, I rarely get out to the stores as much as I used to because of my busy travel schedule. So lately, I have resorted to internet shopping. I know that can usually be hit or miss, but recently, I have managed to get a lot more hits! I have found that the more reviews on the product the better, so you can see beforehand if it’s worth the buy. I hit gold at Piperlime with both this blazer and the blouse underneath. And to top off the look, I recently purchased this Chevron Stack ring from BaubleBar. They did a collection with blogger Blaire Eadie of Atlantic-Pacific, and there are tons of amazing pieces I suggest you check out. I liked this one in particular, because it comes with 5 colors of stackable rings which you can mix and match according to your outfit or preference that day.

A lot of people have been asking how they can help with the Hurricane Sandy relief. I have listed a bunch of websites with tons of information on how you can participate.

Terps Sandy Service Day

Village Voice lists opportunities

NYC Service

Team Rubicon

Style blogger Keiko Lynn lists opportunities

Occupy Sandy

Join the Sandy Swap group on Facebook for Staten Island updates

List of shelters from Red Cross

NY still needs your help, so if you haven’t already donated or volunteered, please do!