I use the term HBIC (head bitch in charge– LOL) quite often because A. I think it’s funny and B. that s%%t describes how I feel about myself and the ladies in my life SO WELL. If you aren’t a strong, independent, and super sassy babe, I’m prob not friends with you. Nothing against you, we all have types.

Basically, I feel that every woman should be the HBIC in her life. Like, just own being a woman, be a total feminist, know your worth, know your strength, your power, and just OWN all of it. That doesn’t mean necessarily that you have to be a big ol’ mean bitch about everything, or demasculate your man (if you have one/if you even like men…) but it means love yourself, love yourself so much that you won’t take “no” for an answer, ESPECIALLY as it pertains to you getting exactly what you want out of life.

Little known fact: You can get what you want, and you shouldn’t settle for less.

That goes for the ladies AND the mens.

(I used to have this girlfriend who called men, mens and I died over it- so cute!!!)

Any who, this top five this week is all about dressing the part.

You know that old saying, “don’t dress for the job you have, dress for the job you want..”

SO TRUE.

Dress for the job/life/person you want or want to be.

1. Faux Leather Midi Skirt $119

I’m seriously craving everything fall and this skirt is everything for the coming season.  This skirt commands attention with its faux leather and longer length (perfect for colder months), oh and it has pockets. BTW- Pair with a black top, thank me later. Buy here.

2. Lovers + Friends Lasting Impressions Dress $154

Nothing makes me want to get a bob more than this photo and this dress. Clearly by the look on this hot tamale’s face she knows she is center of attention b/c duh that hair and attitude- girrrrrrl!! If you love the high neckline in the front, wait until you see the back.. Buy here.

3. BB Dakota Henderson Jacket $70

Ok another from Revolve b/c hey free shipping/returns, oh and this hottie number is only $70… YES, $70 for a jacket you’ll wear about 90 million times this fall/winter. In love with the asymmetrical cut and the faux leather (ewww to real leather ;)) I love that this is so soft but also commanding with the shoulder and leather. Buy here.

4. Schutz Rita Shoe in Lime Light $180

Schutz is a fantastic, pretty affordable quality brand that gives you a lot of style bang for your buck.  I love these lime pumps because they are sexy with a pop of color. Buy here.

5. Torn by Ronny Kobo Faige Sweater in Black $248

This may or may not fall under the splurge category, I can’t decide, but if you crave detail and sex appeal, this is a must have. This sweater is a double knit in jersey, with super hot hot cutouts that kind of look like a uniform, so duh- I looooooove. Buy here    .

 How do you declare you’re the HBIC?? Tell tell

Okay guys, excuse me for a moment while I fan girl out….. If you don’t obsessively follow all of the top fitness bloggers, let me just fill you in on Kayla Itsines… She’s straight up EVERYTHING.

BTW- Kayla’s been featured in Cosmopolitan, Shape, Lorna Jane, Hello Magazine and the list goes on… NBD (BD, SERIOUS BD!!) A little back story- Kayla started out as a personal trainer in Adelaide, Australia, which quickly turned into her developing her very own exercises based on research she had done on the relationship between nutrition and exercise. She then started her own company to help women achieve their fitness goals in as little as 12 weeks!! #GIRLBOSS ow ow!! More About Kayla here.

Take it away Kayla!

-Introduction-

Hi there My name is Kayla Itsines. I’m a 23-year-old personal trainer from Adelaide, South Australia. I specialize in training women as I have a passion for helping them achieve their goals whether they are appearance, health or confidence based. I love to spend time my partner Tobi, especially at the beach, as I absolutely love summer. I have a Siberian Husky puppy called Ace who keeps me very busy! I hope I continue to grow as a person and expand my knowledge to be able to bring more information to women all around the world. You can access my website here!

(<3 her dog!!!)

-What type of products do you sell? How do your plans work?

My Bikini Body Training Guides 1.0 and 2.0 as well as my Nutrition HELP guide are all E-Books My training plans are focused around a 28 minute training method that are aimed at burning fat fast in order to feel fit, lean and confident. My Nutrition HELP Guide is a 7-day meal plan and educational information about nutrition and healthy eating, which is based on a wholesome and balanced diet.

-What is your advice to clients who are just starting out? How do they stay on track and stay focused on their goals?

Be patient, change isn’t going to come instantly! Try to work yourself back in slowly and your body will soon develop a habit. Poor lifestyle patterns take time to re-write and you won’t see significant results in a week. It’s about maintaining your lifestyle change for the long run so that you feel confident 100% of the time. So find a plan that works for you, stick to it and you WILL get there!

-What inspires you to live a healthy lifestyle?

My mission is what inspires me. I have a dream to end confusion within the health and fitness industry. Fads and scams in this industry have created so much distrust and insecurity around weight-loss programs. I want all people to understand their body, have a place to learn about health and fitness and in turn feel confident & happy.

(Can we all look like this, please?)

-What does your weekly workout routine look like?

I generally rotate through weeks 9-12 of my Bikini Body Training Guide but after the latest release of my Bikini Body Training Guide 2.0 I’ve started using this and absolutely LOVE the challenge!!

-What are your top three on the go snacks?
When I do snack I generally go for a piece of fruit that I feel like, mango is an all time favorite :). Almonds and berries are also great for snacking on the run!

-How do you combat cravings, and what is your favorite splurge?

I have a weak spot for Tiramisu, which is a Greek coffee flavored dessert. Because I am lactose intolerant and this has dairy in it, I can only have it once every so often… but this is probably a good thing haha!

-Any advice for readers who may want to lose weight without “dieting”?”
You need to put 100% into both eating a healthy and balanced diet, and 100% into a regular exercise program if you want to see results in the long run; the two go hand-in-hand.

-Favorite way to relax after a stressful week?

People don’t usually believe me but I generally relax by working out! Exercise releases endorphins, which make you happy! So when I’ve had a stressful week I love sweating it out at the gym. This, or putting my feet up on the couch with my gorgeous partner, Tobi and a big mug of chamomile tea!

If you want to see some of Kayla’s amazing client transformations, follow her on Instagram @Kayla_Itsines

Thank you Kayla!!

Full disclosure: I may or may not be munching on the Spice-z Parmesan Garlic Chipz as I write this……

(I am).

As you all know by now, I’m all about eating healthy and being very aware of the ingredients in the foods I eat. I still love to indulge a little bit, I still like to have a little fun beyond just fruits and veggies, so I do occasionally venture out into world of packaged foods.

I totally love chips and dip, it’s like an addicting/never gets old/delicious snack that is just too perfect for too many occasions, and there are so many great options to make sure you are eating a healthier version of the yummy snack.

Recently my buds over at Chipz Happen sent me all of their delicious flavors of chips to try and I have to say, healthy tastes good.

Chipz are made with Rice Bran Oil which is a superior frying oil with the highest amount of antioxidants. Chipz are also Non-GMO (ewww GMO’s = nasty/gross/never), and flavored with Himalayan Pink Salt.

(gasp)

Can we just take a moment for Himalayan Pink Salt?

Please?!

This stuff is everything.

Not only does it have a distinct (delicious) flavor, but it contains 84 minerals, aids in hydration, balances electrolytes, strengthens bones, lowers blood pressure, removes toxins, and aids in absorption. Oh, and it tastes like heaven on earth.

I CAN’T.

I also love the story behind Chipz.  They’re a San Diego based family business. It all started at home (where the magic happens) from the lovely Mother who spent 20 years perfecting the recipe, and the kids (now grown kids) helping by being expert taste testers.  Personally, I love family owned businesses. There is something so remarkable about the family unit, working together for a cause they all believe in.

Oh, and if all that sweetness isn’t enough to try Chipz, check out Kidz Happen, their program to award scholarships to underpriveleged children.  A portion of proceeds go to Kidz Happen. More about this amazing program here.

Loveeee!

Visit Chipz Happen here and buy here or at all Sprouts California locations.

I’m a simple girl, really.

I don’t need a mansion, a Rolls Royce or a stack of hundreds to roll around in.

What I really want in life is for things to be pretty.

All things pretty.

Pretty house, pretty life, pretty food, pretty everything.

That’s what the f is up.

So I found my top five pretty finds from Urban Outfitters to help you live a pretty pretty life.

(BTW- I love Urban because they have affordable awesome finds and they offer Free Shipping over $50, easy peez.)

 1. Macaroon Candle, Set of 6- $18

  This is what I’m talking about when I say all things pretty. How damn cute are these yummy macaroon candles?! I want to scatter these all over floating shelves and just bask in their cuteness. So adorbs.

2. Wire Circle Shelf- $89

The macaroon candles on this shelf is everything. I love creating little sets of items in my house to showcase my favorite books, yummy smelling candles and little plants in cutesie pots. Think stackable, various colors and textures.

3. Industrial Wall Mirror- $39

You can never have too many mirrors, really. Especially if you live in a small space. It’s all about reflecting to make the room/space seem bigger and full of light. I love these little hanging mirrors for a hallway or a bedroom.

4. Triple Tiered Geo Hanging Terrarium- $59

This item is worth every little penny. Terrariums are hot right now, and they’re the perfect way to bring greenery into your home (hiii people that kill plants, you likely won’t kill these air plants!! Just saying!)

5. Right Angles Handwoven Rug- $24-$99

I love how colorful and sweet this little rug is. The geo patterns are so precious and the fringe on the ends is just perfect.

Do you ever have that moment where you’re just like, “I want to do this.. I don’t know how to do this.. but I’ll do it anyway, because– why the f not?!?”

Well, I had that moment to the fullest extent LAST NIGHT.

I’m talking less than 14 hours ago.

It was, “AHA!” Fireworks went off and I suddenly became more excited than ever, for my newest idea…

So WTF am I talking about?

A BOOK CLUB!!!!!!!!!!
I don’t really know what it takes to start a book club, I’ve never officially been a part of one, but I assume it goes like this:

1. Decide to start a book club.

2. Tell people about it.

3. Get those people to say “yes” to reading (convince/force).

4. Read at a similar pace (make benchmarks).

5. DISCUSS/LOVE EVERY MINUTE OF IT. <————- most important part!

So, that’s my model for the book club.

WANT TO JOIN?!?

Perks of the Everything’s A Thing Book Club Membership include:

-It’s very official.

-Hilarious reads (I’ve already picked the first book but you can tell me what you want to read next. Must be GOOOOOOOOOOD).

-We can talk about all of our lovely thoughts/feelings about our book.

-IT WILL BE SO FUN.

Ok, hopefully you’re convinced.

The first book is…. Babe Walker’s “Psychos.” Buy here, and read through chapter 1 (you’ll fly through this chapter 1, just want to give everyone time to order the book).  BTW- Make sure you e-mail me and let me know if you’re participating!!

Thoughts??

Hope you babes are as excited as me, clearly this is my best idea ever.

Loveys!!

Hello everybody!!!

Sorry for the lack of posts the past week-ish (more like 2) weeks! As you all know very well, at times life gets a little too in the way of fun stuff like blogging! My apologies!

Halloween is a week from tomorrow. ONE WEEK!

How in the h-e-double hockey sticks did that happen?

Well, in case it has crept up on you like one of those creepy mummies in every Halloween movie you’ve ever seen, I have your party essentials covered!

BTW- Totally don’t need to actually have a party to throw a party, make sense? This year, I’m all about a small little Halloween celebration.  Think themed cocktails, scary movies, a little candy, a little snuggly time, a little dressing up my doggy and parading him around even though he doesn’t know what’s going on, type of night.

Hang with your BFF, your girl/your boy, your parents, whatever and just freaking have a ball.

1. Vintage Halloween Paper Straws

These cutesy straws are not only biodegradable but they are so damn adorable. I would throw a party just to use these straws, just saying.  Think a little spiked witches brew + cute vintage straws + a little spooky music. Done, done and done!

2. Black & White Swirl Pops

Lollipops are not just for kids this Halloween… I mean, I try to stay away from candy 99% of the time, but on Halloween, you’re allowed (encouraged, forced). Try these cherry flavored pops for a cute little party accent & an end of the night treat.

3. Black M&M’s

There are certain things that don’t ever cross my mind.  Black M&M’s would be one of these things. Like who the f thinks to make such a thing?! People that love Halloween! That’s who. I love these to throw in a cute little skeleton bowl or a cute candy dish to add to your delicious decor!

4. Halloween Canvas

How adorable is this little vintage canvas with the little girl and cute cat?!? I love sweet little details for decor, without going overboard.

5. Orange Lanterns

I’m not sure if you know this about me, but I am always more than down for a pom pom hanging somewhere. They are so delightful and sweet, especially these orange poms for a dose of Halloween fun!

Ok so remember close to two months ago when we announced our new book club??

Well, the first book chosen was Pyschos by Babe Walker.

I am now finished and want to share a little fun, self-deprecating recap!!

I didn’t realize this until after beginning the book, but this was the follow up “memoir” from Babe’s first book, “White Girl Problems.”

After reading Psychos, I’m so down to read the first book very soon! (I have a few in between I need to get to first though..)

Basically, I’m not going to do a full on book recap because A- I don’t want to ruin it for you if you’re still reading and B- you can google the plot if you really want to (highly recommend reading though).

I’m just going to reflect on one of my favorite themes throughout the book, the use of Babe’s alter ego “Babette.”

I freaking LOVE Babette.

Now, at first, when Babette was introduced in the book I was like WTF…. Why? So dumb/kind of annoying/over the top. But the more Babette showed up, and the more she described Babette’s behaviors I couldn’t help but dive right in to Babette’s crazy/hilarious ways. The truth is, every girl I know has a Babette side to her personality, and it doesn’t necessarily take a “Roberto” to bring Babette out.

If you’re totally playing catch up with WTF I’m talking about right now, let me just clue you in. Babette is Babe’s crazy alter ego that she snaps into when she’s around her on again/off again BF Robert.  He makes her crazy because she loves him so much, so she occasionally freaks the F out on him and does crazy ish that can only be described as the work of Babette.

I laugh/love this because women do this a lot.. We can be the sweetest, most calm, understanding, loving, nurturing women ever, and when we are pissed (for whatever the reason) flip the F out.  I blame this on many things, but my personal fave is hormones, because that sh*t is REAL.  Men have a hard time understanding hormones because they don’t have a menstrual cycle that brings their hormone levels up and down on a daily/monthly basis (TMI? IDC.) Want more info on this complex cycle? I LOVE this article from Woman’s Day explaining the different hormone levels throughout women’s cycles and what those hormones produce.

Anywho- Babette is hilarious, and I love how real the book gets (even though it’s fiction.) I could hardly complete a chapter without seriously laughing out loud and taking a moment to digest Babe’s hilarious observations. This is a must read for the girl who wants to get real with herself.

I will be announcing the next book next week! LMK if you want to join in on the fun!!

Have a great weekend!!

    Good Afternoon, friends!

Hope you all had a fantastic Veteran’s Day! I kicked my day off with a little run, then spent the day shopping (duh) with a carrot juice in hand/planning all of my fun DIY projects coming up!

When this time of year rolls around I am all about cozy slippers, staying in and getting creative! Fall & Winter are about recharging your battery and getting into an awesome groove! By the way, just because it is getting dark at like 5PM doesn’t mean you have to sit on the couch the rest of the night… Get your booty in gear!  Get out for a walk with your babe (or furry babe), enjoy the cool, fresh air, and take a warm glass of chamomile tea with you OR if you’re feeling extra frisky, a little Irish Coffee (in this mug = everything)!! Sooooo relaxing (trust me).

So let’s get to the business.. Have you guys seen the new Piperlime site?!?

I’ve been a maj fan of Piperlime for years, let me tell you. Their free shipping/free returns policy is a LIFE SAVER. I can’t tell you how many times I’ve splurged on items online and got the short end of the stick when it comes to returns.. A lot of online retailers do free shipping, but not free returns, so you’re stuck paying $5-15 to ship back an item YOU DON’T EVEN WANT! What!?! Sucky, just saying. At Piperlime, it’s so easy. They even include a cute little green card inside with your packing slip already printed and ready to go- just in caseies.

Piperlime also always has bomb @$s sales.  I’m talking 15, 20, sometimes even 30-40% off sale merch and new arrivals. I. Can’t. Get. Enough.

So ya, 1/2 of my shoe collection is from Piperlime.

Ob-sessed.

So this week’s top five is all about Piperlime and all of the amazing need-now essentials you may or may not need to buy like now.

1. Pim + Larkin Adriene Vegan Leather Jacket, ON SALE!!! I understand if you are no longer reading this post because you just had a mini heart attack and are already in your cart for this coat.. I mean really, $109 for a coat you’ll wear about 169497598759 times this fall/winter is nothing. I love the Vegan Leather sleeves with the asymmetrical sweater draped in the front for the perfect relaxed style.

2. 525 America Traveling Cable Knit Sweater, $225 Babes, don’t flip on the price.  As a girl in her 20’s, I have absolutely NO misconceptions about my peers being able to afford certain items.  Unless you’re independently wealthy/married a Doctor/wtf ever, you’re probably not buying this sweater if you’re on the youngish side.  I mean, let’s be real, we’re just starting out. However, I know plenty of babes that are young hotties that will splurge on key items, the trick is finding what pieces are worth the hit to your checkbook.  Ie: the perfect shoes, a DVF dress, a Chanel bag… Pick your poison, it’s all good to me. If you’re in to invest in a sweet, timeless sweater this one is amazing. If you’re game for something a little less expensive ($64!!), try this little Pim + Larkin cable knit, also amazing.

3. Loeffler Randall Rain Fenton, $195 I will make no apologies for adding a pair of LOEFFLER RANDALL boots on the top five. At just under $200, this is splurge-worthy to the MAX.  These are edgy, chic, and who can’t justify rain boots??

4. JOA Brushed Plaid Skirt, ON SALE!!! Ok- here’s my quick guide on navigating through sales… Have you ever been at a Nordstrom’s when their Half Yearly Sale is going on?  If you haven’t, let me just paint the picture.  Think screaming babies, pushy women, eyes glazed over, women literally bumping into you left & right, men sleeping in chairs…. AKA complete utter MAYHEM (ahem #WhyIOnlineShop ahem) Pretty much, if you’re at a big sale, look at every item critically. For me, it’s just taking that extra glance and thinking, “do I love this because it’s on sale, or do I love this because I love it?” Usually my inner voice screams one way or another, and I just get freaking brutal with it. I recommend being superrrr critical with yourself when sale shopping because let’s face it, who hasn’t ended up with some FUGLY items as a result of a good sale at least once or twice in their lives? Guilty. As. Charged. This little plaid skirt for a mere $34.97 is flirty, cute, fun and perfect for work during the cooler months.  Add black tights, black booties and a cute little blouse and you’re out the door!

5. Keepsake Hearts On Fire Dress, ON SALE!!! Guys, this adorable, must have dress is on sale right now for $84.. The bustier top, the mini silhouette, this dress is the perfect date night dress for the cooler months, just throw this show stopper Fur Twill Jacket over it and you’ll be warm throughout the night.  
More of my faves from Piperlime:

Too excited not to share… So remember my post yesterday on Piperlime??

Well, today is our lucky day because today ONLY Piperlime is offering 20% off your favorite brands aka these Loeffler Randall boots featured on yesterday’s post, Joie, Paige, Parker, Marc Jacobs, Kate Spade, Ella Moss, and the list goes on!!

If you need excuses to shop I have a few:

-Free Shipping

-You deserve it

-YOLO?

-Buy the shoes

-CLOTHES

-Donate a bag of clothes, buy new clothes (completely justifiable, I do it ALL the time)..

-Early Christmas shopping

-TGIF

Use code: NOWORNEVER

Today Only.

You’re Welcome

A little inspa:

Thanksgiving is OFFICIALLY one week away (WTF?!) and if you haven’t already, now is the time to start thinking about this year’s ensemble.

It seems far too limiting and slightly unfair to only include five items this week on the top five, so I have come up with five different Thanksgiving looks to get you in the mood to start styling your wardrobe now!

Oh, and if you don’t have all of these items, it will also give you time to buy for that perfect fit..

Hehehe

(Mouse over pictures to see pricing info and click to go directly to the item link!)

1. The Frisky Feather

This look is all glam with a little festivity in the feathers.  Take your favorite faux leather pant, pair with a simple yet interesting white tee, layer this amazing fur jacket over the top and these incredible feathered heels for $108…. Such a steal.

Perfect for: A Friendsgiving or Fancy Affair

2. The Plaid Pilgrim  

As you can see from the picture, this look is all about the plaid skirt.  This full hip hugging skirt is made for a sweet crop top like this one.  Anchor with a strong black boot and overcoat and sparkle with just the right drop earrings for an elegant touch.

Perfect for: Small intimate family gatherings

3. The Bodacious Voyager

This ensem is all boho and all sass.  Every lady should invest in a good layering dress such as this one, layer a huge, comfy sweater over the top, dazzle with a little jeweled halo and give yourself a lift with these Jeffrey Campbell heels.  Oh, and of course the bag is worth every damn penny for something so fab ($98?? Done.)

Perfect for: The Multi-Family Thanksgiving Run Around

4. The Festive Foliage

If you have not yet purchased a For Love & Lemons piece, now is your chance! The perfect fall dress, paired with a cute around the neck gold chain for a touch of glam,a soft and furry clutch for a little fun and of course, some sassy sunnies.

Perfect for: An evening celebration

5. The Meet the Parents

If this is your first Thanksgiving meeting the parents, allow me to give you a little bit of unsolicited advice: BE YOU.  Don’t dress any kind of way that they won’t see you dress like again.  Make sense? That’s not to say go with a super sheer top with your cleavage busting out all over the place (totes inappropriate), but if you want to wear something a little on the funky side (ie: a faux fur jacket, leopard print heels, even a tasteful long sleeved crop)..  I say God Bless.  They’ll love you for you, just like your partner does.

Perfect for: Meeting the Parents