GORE-TEX Casual Shoes (Ara’s Paula Boots)

If you had asked me before to describe GORE-TEX, I would have most likely associated them with rugged outdoor wear. My husband and I both have own GORE-TEX clothing for that we used for sports/outdoors. Not only have these items lasted for years, but their technology that provides warmth and protection from the elements has remained just as good as it was the day we first bought our items.

Today GORE-TEX is still a leader in rugged outdoor apparel, however, times are changing and the GORE brand now works with several fashion brands, including Clarks, Ecco, Ara and Stuart Weitzman, and Timberland (among others) to offer casual shoes with GORE-TEX waterproof, breathable technology inside.

Just as the little black dress, a basic pair of jeans and a collared shirt are considered fashion essentials – casual shoes with GORE-TEX fabric technology are essential for any on-the-go woman. These styles are sleek, stylish and are ideal for traveling, running errands, a day at the office or a night on the town. They are versatile and can be worn for more than one activity in any weather condition.

The boots I received are what I would call a staple for any woman’s cold weather apparel…the black boot. I’ve tested the Ara Paula Boot with GORE-TEX in everything from morning dew, to rainy days, and even in “Snowtober’s” ridiculous rain, sleet and snow Halloween weekend. Not surprisingly given the GORE-TEX technology, my feet and legs have remained warm and totally dry.

I own several pairs if knee high black boots with varied heel heights, and although some kept my feet warm in cold weather, none were really perfect when it came to keeping the elements totally out. The Ara Paula boot is stylish, great for every day wear, comfortable, has great arch support, and of course keeps you warm and dry! I found that the boots were also true to size. The boots also have excellent traction and the side zippers allowed easy access in and out of the boot.

You can purchase this boot at Zappos.com here (they offer free shipping and free returns) and are my favorite online shoe retailer.

While your shopping at Zappos.com, check out all of the GORE-Tex items. There are over six hundred pairs of men, women and children’s shoes available with the GORE-TEX technology! I have always had certain shoe brands I trusted, and now going forward we’ll be purchasing everything from sneakers, boots and casual shoes with GORE-TEX. Otherwise, you could find yourself cold, wet, and wishing for that extra protection. A great gift for anyone…including yourself!
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Bacci Couture Collection

Bacci's Mila in Red

There are some times more than others that I am glad I started this website, and when I had an opportunity to review a couple pieces from the Bacci Couture Fall Collection, that was one of them! Bacci, which means ‘kisses‘ in Italian, has been creating fashionable garments for over twenty-five years. Bacci is based in Los Angeles, CA but their appeal and fashions have national and international popularity as well. Their clientele ranges from boutiques and specialty chains, to department stores.

When it comes to their garments Bacci says, “An essential aspect of fashion is that it is one of the most influential, accessible forms of art. Fashion is a direct projection of your personality, mood, etc. Depending on the weather or occasion, you want your clothes to reflect how you feel in that moment. Bacci is here to help inspire you daily.” Their fashions are best described as modern contemporary and are perfect for women who want to look their best in high quality, affordable clothing.

Bacci’s current Fall collection offers a variety of items in this season’s most desired colors. You will find fashions for a multitude of occasions, some for work, some for play, and many that will translate well from day to night. Even just a handful of Bacci’s latest designs would be enough to spice up your entire cold weather closet. The best news of all is that these “diva essential” pieces are more affordable than you would think.

I was able to select two items for review purposes and the first one I chose was the eye catching Mila in red (as seen in the photo above). The garment is light weight, yet still provides warmth on chilly days. It comes with an adjustable stylish belt that really adds something to the sweater, but I have also worn it without the belt and been just as pleased with how it looks. The sweater is soft and comfortable and aside from warmth is great to spice up an outfit. I’ve worn this with my favorite jeans, black pants and even leggings and boots. It is available in Red, Black, Purple, Eggplant, or Gray, and is currently selling for $28.50.

The second piece was a little outside my normal comfort zone, or at least was something I would have purchased only if I could have tried it on first. However, I loved how it looked in the photograph (shown below), and I really loved how it looked paired with jeans. The garment, named the Amanda, is actually one piece, although several people actually came up and asked ‘what the sequin top underneath looked like‘ as the other part of the shirt has the look (and feel) of a cardigan. The garment is so soft and comfortable despite it’s fabulous and sassy appearance. That fabulous feeling is hard to hide whether you wear this top with jeans or choose to pair it with your favorite skirt. For something that I was initially nervous about ordering just based on the picture, it is now one of my favorite items in my Fall/Winter wardrobe. This piece is currently available for $24.75.

Bacci's 'Amanda' shirt

Now that I have had a chance to wash, wear and see the comfort and quality that Bacci offers, I plan on ordering several more of their items from their current line like the Wynter, Mona and the Isla to name a few. I hope you’ll check out the Bacci Collection and see for yourself how easy they are making it to own fashionable, quality clothing this Holiday Season. You can view the entire collection here, and ordering from Bacci is easy. Although their items are found at various boutiques and retailers, you can order your items directly from Bacci. First, find your item on the Bacci Price Sheet (located on the Collections page) and use the password ‘diva’ to access it. When you have chosen the items that you want there are two options: Print the purchase order form and fax your information to the Bacci office (numbers are provided on the sheet), or simply email Bacci with the piece numbers you want along with payment information to info@bacciinc.com .

You can feel great about your purchase not because you’re getting fabulous garments at a great deal, but also because 1% of all orders goes to the Red Cross! Learn more about Bacci on their website and be sure to “like” them on Facebook. They may not be a household name yet, but I bet they soon will be. Order yourself and all the women on your list some fabulous fashions this holiday season…and be sure to let them know that the Domestic Diva sent you!

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Channel Birthstone Bracelet from RedEnvelope

RedEnvelope’s new Channel Birthstone Bracelet is sure to make an impression. This eye-catching bracelet that is adjustable to 8″L is made of a delicate sterling-silver chain bracelet that has a narrow bar centerpiece that’s channel-set with a long line of a single, significant birthstones. The back may be personalized as well up to 10 characters. The bracelet is simple, yet in that simplicity carries an elegance. The channel set cultured stones make a statement without looking pretentious. The bracelet is light-weight and easy to wear, and I have found it perfect for someone like me who does not typically wear a lot of jewelry on a day to day basis, but still on occasion likes to wear nice pieces.

The Channel Birthstone Bracelet has actually complimented several outfits. It is simple enough to dress up a casual look and it is also fabulous enough to wear along with more formal looks. This is really the perfect gift for any woman, and birthstones are always a thoughtful and well received item. RedEnvelope also offers several other beautiful items if you are looking to really wow and win her over this Holiday! Check out the Sterling Birthstones Stackable Rings, the Customized Heart of Hearts Birthstone Necklace, or the Family Tree Birthstone necklace among similar items.

There are also countless fabulous jewelry finds at RedEnvelope (aside from the birthstone items), in addition to hundreds and hundreds of gifts for everyone on your list. You can shop by occasion, browse gifts for women, gifts for men, Babies and Kids, for the home, Jewelry and more! If you need a gift, for any occasion, Red Envelope is sure to have something to fit your needs.

Visit the RedEnvelope website for unique and awesome gift ideas this Holiday season! They also have great deals and promo codes, and don’t forget to “like” them on Facebook for the latest savings and items! Don’t miss my other RedEnvelope item this year, the sure-to-be-treasured Deluxe Wall Gallery Frame Set.

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J. Jill Women’s Apparel

J. Jill's sparkle blazer and silk charmeuse scoop-neck tank in champagne

J. Jill knows what women are dreaming of this time of year…a holiday that’s calm and cool. From cozy chic to party-ready, their new collection greets women with luxe cashmere, velvet and silk that are all trimmed with unexpected, delightful details. It’s easy. It’s ageless. It’s cool…and it’s only at J.Jill.

I was able to see this for myself in the silk charmeuse scoop-neck tank in champagne (shown above). The silk top is a light occasion-ready style. It is adorned with a glossy trim along neckline and front. The scoop neckline has shirring detail, and it’s a straight silhouette that sits at a low-hip length. Aside from champagne, it also is available in black, cream, garnet and zinc. The shirt can be hand wash or dry cleaned and it retails for $79.

It’s a luxurious and beautiful piece that will easily transition from day to night. Perfect for work or an evening function that can be worn under your favorite cardigan or blazer. Great for holiday parties, but also a great piece that can be worn year round as well.

I partnered the silk charmeuse scoop-neck tank with the sparkle-knit blazer. This is not, I repeat, not your mother’s blazer. This fabulous piece, which I got in the walnut heather, is covered in a metallic sequins that are knit throughout the blazer for a subtle shimmer. The shaped silhouette with lapel collar and single-button closure is complimentary to a variety of figures and shapes. It also has on-seam pockets, lined sleeves, 24 1/2″ mid-hip length, 23 1/2″ petite, 26″ women’s. The sparkle knit blazer is made of acrylic, polyester and wool which should be dry cleaned.

I’ll be sporting the sparkle knit blazer this holiday season; I just love how it changes the feel of the wearing a blazer. It seems like the perfect piece for holiday functions, or wear it to work to add some sass! The blazer sells for $159.00.

J. Jill sells a variety of items, and I’ve got a few others on my Christmas List (hint, hint to my husband) like the cozy patchwork cardigan, the cocooning puffer jacket, and anything from their built for dreaming sleepwear collection! J. Jill offers a wide variety of women’s items though from tops, sweaters, dresses, jackets and outerwear to fabulous jewelry and accessories. Anything I received from J. Jill this holiday would be an appreciated and much loved gift!

To see all the fabulous, cozy, chic items that J.Jill has to offer visit their website here. You can also stay connected with J.Jill on Facebook for exclusive savings and offers and to see their new collections first! Don’t forget to follow on Twitter for much of the same!

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Energy Muse Jewelry

The Sacred Stones Bracelet from Energy Muse Jewelry

Energy Muse is a conscious lifestyle brand, providing tools of empowerment , inspiration and hope. The company is based in Southern California and was founded in 2000 by Native Californians Heather Askinosie and Timmi Jandro, best girlfriends for over 35 years. Seeking to educate and reconnect the world to the ancient wisdom and healing properties of crystals. Each piece of jewelry combines energy and intention which create a desired outcome. Energy Muse transcends what one might think of jewelry and has instead become a lifestyle of wearable energy.

Energy Muse Jewelry is intended to balance the body through the healing properties of gemstones and crystals. For thousands of years, ancient civilizations have utilized their power to release mental, physical and spiritual blockages thus facilitating the free flow of energy throughout the body. At a cellular level the human body and quartz crystal are both made up of the mineral silicon dioxide. Energy Muse explains this is why we are naturally receptive to the vibrations of crystals as they transmit, reflect, store light and receive energy. When gemstones are placed on the body, they have a powerful vibratory effect that surges from the stone to the individual who embraces its energy. According to the law of physics, thought directs energy and energy follows thought. Each energy piece is a vehicle to help the thoughts of our consciousness connect with our body.

This was the first time I’ve worn jewelry in this manner, but I’ve always wanted to try crystals and stones because I know several people who swear by them (and they are some of the most grounded, intelligent people I know!). You may have a preconceived notion in mind in the type of people wear Energy Muse jewelry, but I know you’d be surprised some of the celebrities that wear their pieces. For example, baseball great Mark McGuire, singer/songwriters Jason Mraz and Jordan Sparks, celebrity chef Gordon Ramsey, and one of my favorite soccer players and celebrities, David Beckham. And that’s just a few of the celebrities you’ll see sporting Energy Muse jewelry; you can see a full list here.

I have been wearing my own Energy Muse piece, the Sacred Stones Bracelet (pictured above), for a few weeks now. The bracelet is said to bring Divine Guidance, Consciousness, Faith. The Energy Muse 12 Sacred Stone piece carries with it the vibrations of the twelve stones of the Holy City. Referred to in Revelation Chapter 21 verses 9-20 of the New Testament, the Holy City is described as having had twelve gates, each named for one of the twelve tribes of Israel. It is said that an angel guards over each one of these gates. The walls surrounding the city rest on twelve foundations, and each foundation is named for one of the twelve Apostles. It is these foundations that were adorned with precious stones; the same stones that make up this Energy Muse piece. Wear this piece and they say you should listen for ancient whisperings.

Aside from what the bracelet is said to bring, this attractive piece is easy and comfortable enough to wear daily. It sells for $79.99. I can’t say for sure that I feel I have received any divine guidance thus far, but I think there’s something to be said for the power of faith. If you believe that something will happen, or that wearing crystals and stones can help in a variety of ways, I think it will. For me, I think I could always use a little more faith, consciousness, and of course divine guidance. If wearing this bracelet makes me think about that more, or even carries a chance of doing so, I’m certainly not one to dismiss it without even trying.

Energy Muse offers jewelry for men and women and there are a variety of pieces that are said to bring certain elements to your life like strength, health, freedom, openness, ease, beauty, creativity, wealth, luck, love and more. You can actually shop a number of ways on the Energy Muse site, so if there’s something specific you can shop by intention for a full list.

There were a few other items I really liked such as the Flow Necklace, the Energy Drop Earrings, the 6th Chakra Bracelet “Brow Chakra”, and the Energy Charms (which sell for less than $25 each). Really, you need to shop and see for yourself. You should buy a piece that speaks to you, and if you ask me, you couldn’t ask for a more thoughtful gift.

Visit the Energy Muse website for a variety of items, all wonderful for gifts this holiday season, and be sure to check them out on Facebook and stay connected with Energy Muse on Twitter too!

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The “No Muffin Top” Skirt

by Clair Vintage Inspired

Alyson Clair, vintage inspired fabulous fashion designer, is forcing me to go out. No really, she is. Alyson recently sent me a beautiful pencil style skirt in red that she created and calls the “No Muffin Top Skirt.” This skirt fits so well, is so flattering to wear, and is just all around so fabulous, I need to find somewhere to wear it! Out! This can’t be something I keep hanging in the closet and only wear on special occasions. I would have killed for a skirt this fashionable, functional and fantastic when I was working. I have no less than eight pencil skirts in my closet and not one has the feel or look as Alyson’s. Although, it does not have a super high waist band, it is just high enough to prevent one of the worst fashion faux pas- the muffin top. After being graced with three children in five years, this unsightly fashion faux pas is something I worry about with snug clothing. Did I mention Alyson’s skirt is tight fitting? It is worn the way a pencil skirt should be worn-snug. It’s also double knit and has a heavier feel so don’t worry about showing anything other than your curves.

Clair Vintage inspired clothing is actually handmade by Alyson Clair at her home in Portland, OR. Her clothing designs are vintage inspired, but can be worn by any fashionable modern woman. Alyson’s clothing line is aimed at dressing women of all shapes and sizes, so whether you are curvy or string bean thin, you’ll look and feel great in your Clair clothing! Visit Alyson’s website (http://www.alysonclair.com/) to view her current collection, and browse previous collections as well. You can find out where to bu your Claire Vintage Inspired clothing on her website as well; click here. She is also on Facebook and MySpace.

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Diamond Down Parka from Lands’ End

Although the Holiday Season is my favorite time of year, I prefer to spend most of my time decking the halls, enjoying food and family time indoors, drinking hot coco in front of a fire, or any other festive indoor activity. I’m not the biggest fan of colder weather, and prefer watching snow fall from indoors and not necessarily spending too much time out in it. Well, that is until now thanks to my new Diamond Down Parka from Lands’ End.

One of the latest Land’s End women’s coats, the Diamond Down Parka is not only fabulously fashionable, it’s also totally functional and will keep you warm and cozy all winter long. My last parka, which I’m sad to report was not a Lands’ End jacket, was fairly warm, but it also was very bulky and puffy. The jacket was white and I swear I looked like the State Puffed Marshmellow Man when I wore it. I was so thrilled with how compact and smooth the Diamond Down Parka from Lands’ End is. The 600 fill power down is sure to keep you warm since it’s really nature’s best insulator. The outer shell of the coat is smooth, not stiff like many other parkas. It’s also made with Lands’ End DriOff™ finish which easily sheds snow and wet leaving you warm and dry.

This mid-thigh level coat is slightly shaped and I think it gives a feminine touch. It also features a belt which can be worn or not depending on your preference. The hood, which is also down filled, is adorned with a faux fur trim and easily snaps on and off, again depending on your preference. The Lands’ End tempature rating on the Diamond Down Parka is warmest and when worn with a typical winter wardrobe this jacket will keep you “warmest: -30° to -5° Fahrenheit.”

The Diamond Down Parka is available in the following colors: Rich Red (shown in the picture above which is the color I received and LOVE), Black, Dark Mahogany, Ivory, Pink Begonia, Angel Blue, and Deep Amethyst. The coat comes in Regular, Petite and Plus sizes.

So now, instead of dreading the winter weather, I’m actually looking forward to it. I’ve had several cold days where I was thrilled to bundle up in this parka, and I can’t wait to show it off this season! I even took the dog for several morning walks when we had below freezing temperatures and didn’t mind it at all. Not only does it feel really warm, but it’s slightly shaped style I find flattering, particularly for a winter coat. I also found that for me, the jacket was true to size.

There are some fabulous sales going on throughout the Holiday season at Lands’ End where you can get a great deal on this, as well as tons of other apparel, for women, men and children.

Visit their website for a full line of products, “like” them on Facebook for all the latest, and don’t forget to Follow on Twitter @LandsEnd too!
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Microdermabrasion and Exfoliation

at Home Treatments

from ShopNBC

As a woman in my early thirties, I’ve begun to notice subtle skin changes. A few fine lines have begun to make their presence known, and as I think back to all the tanning booths and sunscreen free days I spent baking in the sun, I begin to worry. What sort of sun damage have I done? Is there a way to heal my skin? What will I do when the sun damage becomes really obvious? How will I treat full blown wrinkles, and most importantly, how much will it cost??

Sure you can pay for expensive treatments, but you can also save hundreds (if not thousands) with the fabulous line of Microdermabrasion and Exfoliation at home treatments from ShopNBC! I have seen products like these before, but always assumed they were too expensive. It’s not the case at ShopNBC at all! Especially because of all the money you save doing it yourself at home. The kit I was able to try was the PMD Personal Microderm At Home System which, at the time of this review, had a sale price less than $100! The regular price is $108, but the retail value is over $200.

PMD Personal Microderm At Home System

The PMD Personal Microderm At Home System was easy to use, and after just a few treatments I can really see a difference in my skin. It’s listed benefits include:

BARBAR Hair Tools

BAR-2300 1″ 1/2 Professional Flat Iron

Every once in a while, I come across a product that I’d call life changing. The BARBAR Titanium Plate Ionic 2300 1″ 1/2 Flat Iron is one of those products.

I have naturally curly hair which is rather unruly, and in particular, my hair hates (yes, it has emotions and seems to have a mind all its own), being straightened. The only time a real straightening has ever really looked good and taken place is when I have it done professionally. The combination of professional products and their professional tools seems to make all the difference. Whenever I tried to straighten my hair at home it took twice as long with a not-so-professional result. Most days, in fact, I had to use my old iron again later in the day to ensure no waves or curls came creeping back in.

Cue the BARBAR Titanium Plate Ionic 2300 1″ 1/2 Flat Iron. It is a professional item that you can actually use on wet or dry hair. I’ve been able to cut 45 minutes off my straightening with this iron! It’s like magic….or maybe it’s just the way it was made. The BARBAR Titanium Plate Ionic 2300 1″ 1/2 Flat Iron “can be used on wet or dry hair to reduce styling time without burning or damaging hair, due to the ionic ventilation holes that seal in moisture. Equipped with titanium plates, the BARBAR 2300 lasts longer and performs stronger than ceramic, and heats up evenly use after use.”

Some of it’s features include an iconic charger, heats to 450 degrees F, swivel cord, digital temperature display, MCH ceramic heater, AC 50/60HZ, Current 1.9 amp, 1 1/2″ Titanium plate, and one year limited warranty. It retails for $165.

The time I’ve saved and the results I’ve gotten myself are well worth the $165 retail price. My old iron was about half the price and the results don’t even compare.

So give yourself the gift of professionally straight hair with theBARBAR Titanium Plate Ionic 2300 1″ 1/2 Flat Iron this Holiday! They also have a full line of professional hair tools. Be sure to check out their website, “like” them on Facebook and connect on Twitter too!
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Frankley.com

Frankley.com was an idea born from the sad state of intimates that Jenni Timony witnessed one day in a friend’s laundry basket. She saw bras that were worn, faded, and even under-wire exposed. When Frankley.com founder joked with her friend she replied, “Who has time for bra shopping? I’ve got enough going on for three people.”

And you know what? I’m sort of embarrassed to admit it, but I can totally relate. There was a time I took great care in my undergarments. I hand washed some, delicate cycles for the others, and I certainly didn’t wear any that had holes, torn fabric or the ever-annoying under-wire that stabs me now throughout the day. I also enjoyed shopping for intimates. So what’s changed? Well, I’m married, have three kids, enough laundry to drown a person, and not nearly enough time for myself. The result is underwear with fraying elastic, bras that get washed with everything else and just don’t stand a chance. I do buy underwear frequently, but that’s for my kids who seem to grow a size every six months or so.

Jenni Timony recognized that her friend (and my) situation was not a unique one. Frankley.com, a subscription underwear service was born. Her idea began in San Fransisco and is a trendy favorite there, but it’s so much more than that. It’s smart, convenient, and makes my life easier. And subscriptions are so easy! You can choose to have these fantastic, hand-picked items delivered right to your door every two, three or six months!

I was sent underwear for my entire family, and we were all thrilled with what we received. The boys both received a three pack of organic cotton briefs which are super soft, fit true to size, and washed and dried without shrinking. Cecilia was tickled with her stylish toddler “days of the week” panties each with a different design, and she even kept the zippered pouch they came in as an extra “purse” to play with. My husband’s boxers were also great. The cotton boxers are thicker than a pair of Hanes boxers, yet they are also light and comfortable. I received a bra and several pairs of underwear all true to size, washed and dried well and all very soft and comfortable. Best of all, I’m pretty sure, no matter which subscription length I choose, these garments will stand the test of time. However, if we wore them every day, I didn’t take proper care wash them delicately, I can at least rest easy know more will be coming from Frankley.com.

So catch the latest trend. Be smart. Be stylish. Be chic. And for goodness sakes, get yourself (and everyone else in your house) some Frankley.com. Visit their website for more information and to order, and of course you can follow them on Twitter @frankleyjenni and Facebook too!
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