Styling Tips:

a) Wear tucked in to a pretty, printed skirt. I love how the casual denim offsets a feminine print.
b) Tie in a knot over a dress or skirt/top combo. Slightly retro, totally flattering.
c) Swap your cardigan for an unbuttoned jean shirt - Keeps you warm and totally on trend.

Of course, all of these looks would work with pants too!

For the past few weeks, I have been on the hunt for the perfect denim shirt. Key requirements include: medium to dark wash, high-quality fabric, understated buttons and a slightly worn-in look. It shouldn't be this hard, but finding a denim shirt that fits this set of criteria hasn't been easy. I have founds shirts that are too expensive, have embellishment, are too thin, such as chambry, etc.

I've narrowed my picks down to three denim shirts, representing a variety of price ranges. What is your favorite?

ATM
Rubbish Chambray Shirt ($49)

Gold
Madewell Denim Campsite Shirt ($79.50)

Platinum
Current/Elliott Perfect Denim Shirt ($198)

What is your favorite way to wear denim shirts?

We're crushing on Fashion Designer, Abi Ferrin! Not only has she designed the incredible Nikki 5-Way Dress, a dress that truly looks amazing on every body type, she's also started The Freedom Project, a social movement focused on empowering men and women around the world to escape abusive and oppressive situations. Needless to say, we're totally impressed!

We were really excited to have the chance to catch up with Abi recently. She told us all about her design inspirations, her latest collection, and her philanthropy.

SP: Tell us a little about how you got your start designing.
AF: My interest in design began at age seven in my hometown of Jackson Hole, Wyoming. I was in 4H learning sewing and pattern work. That was my only fashion training.

I got my degree in political science and journalism and was working in Washington D.C. I thought I was going to be a political journalist but soon realized it wasn’t really my calling. I decided to move to LA to “find myself.” I began working at Paramount Pictures as a temp, and given that temps don’t make a whole lot of money, I started making my own clothes. The job required that I go to lots of events, which translated into a need for many cocktail dresses that a girl on a budget couldn’t afford. I started making a lot of clothes for myself to wear out. It wasn’t long before I started attracting celebrity attention on the red carpet. And the rest, as they say, is history.

SP: Where do you get your design inspiration?
AF: I can find design inspiration in just about anything. Growing up in the shadow of the Grand Tetons in Wyoming has always supplied inspiration for my line. Artists like Erte, Salvador Dali, and Georgia O’Keefe have been huge inspirations for my designs lately.

SP: How would you describe the Abi Ferrin aesthetic?
AF: My personal style is bohemian chic. I love to dress up in a relaxed way. This certainly translates to my line, which I aim to make versatile, flattering, and chic.

SP: If you had to describe your collection in 3 words, what would they be?
AF: Versatile. Empowering. Travel-friendly.

SP: What type of woman wears Abi Ferrin clothing and accessories?
AF: My line is designed with the woman on-the-go in mind. Many of the pieces in the line are constructed from a jersey fabric that is perfect for travel. I am constantly on the move and can truly attest to this. These pieces can literally be balled up and thrown into a suitcase and will still look great when you arrive at your destination.

Abi Ferrin customers are socially conscious individuals looking for clothes that are effortless, chic, and make them feel fabulous.

SP: What is the one piece in your collection every woman should have?
AF: The Nikki 5-Way Dress (pictured above) should be a staple piece in every woman’s closet. It is so versatile and looks great on every body type. Depending on how you tie, drape or twist the fabric, the 5-Way can go from conservative to sexy. It is the perfect desk to dinner piece and can evolve to every woman’s lifestyle.

SP: What is your favorite piece in your collection?
AF: Right now I'm loving the 5-way Beverly pantsuit (pictured above). It's so easy and unique!

SP: What are some fashion trends that we are going to see in upcoming seasons that will be reflected in your designs?
AF: Asymmetrical hemlines, colored lace, beautiful blues and greens, layers and texture.

SP: What is your current favorite fashion trend?
AF: All of the bright colors!

SP: What trend would like to see disappear?
AF: Poorly done espadrilles, but to each her own!

SP: Tell us about the Freedom Project. How did you get started with this cause?
AF: The Freedom Project is the philanthropic arm of Abi Ferrin Inc. It aims to help commission disenfranchised men and women from around the world and empowers them to escape abusive and oppressive situations, be it a relationship or working conditions.

Through The Freedom Project, those involved are able to build their own self-sustaining economies and enjoy the fruits of their skill and dedication. Each Abi Ferrin design is enhanced with a special handcrafted button, toggle, or other embellishment, hand-made by people involved with The Freedom Project.

My involvement with The Freedom Project developed from my own experiences in a physically and emotionally abusive relationship. It is my mission to help liberate other people who find themselves in a similar situation, but lack the means or strength to break away.

SP: How do you see the company evolving in the future?
AF: The sky’s the limit. Our celebrity following is growing every day. From Holly Robinson Peete to Perrey Reeves, Vanessa Williams, Sherri Shepherd and Heidi Klum, to name a few, it’s so inspiring to see powerful women like these use their influence to support an incredible cause!

Where to Buy:
Abi's gorgeous collection, including the Nikki 5-Way Dress, is available at abiferrin.com and Nordstrom.com.

Prints and patterns are so in right now, it can be tough to keep track of what's hot and what's not. But one thing's for sure – palm trees are cropping up on everything from dresses and short to tanks and tees to make our favorite spring and summer fare extra tropic-festive. I don't know if it's Coachella withdrawals, the summer season looming ahead, or the desperate need to take a vacation soon (even if it's just vicariously!), but palm tree prints are getting hotter by the day.

They're a fun way to add a funkier vibe in place of your typical spring florals, and depending on the colors, the look is young and fun but still updated, on-trend, and sophisticated in its boldness. Try on a pair of silky shorts for size – which are great with a pair of platform sandals or wedges – or dare to mix prints like this Paprika dress does, for a fun contrasty look. And of course, if you're ready to bare your midriff as the weather heats up, Forever 21 is serving up some cute palm-print crop tops!

- Alexandra Gambardella

A couple weeks ago, I had the pleasure of attending the Cascade Ice Spring Soiree at Mane Blow Dry Bar in downtown Seattle. My friend Britt and I were greeted with a selection of Cascade Ice drinks to choose from, including yummy cocktail mixers. We mingled a bit and then sat to have our hair done. The lovely stylists at Mane were doing 15-minute mini-sessions. Here are a few snaps of the fun and relaxing evening!

Have you tried Cascade Ice yet? It is kind of my new addiction. It's a flavored sparkling water that has ZERO calories and no sugar, gluten, sodium and carbohydrates. My favorite flavor is grapefruit. You can find it at your local grocery store or online.

Mane Blow Dry Bar offers a variety of services. Their basic wash, dry and style service is $35. Sit back and sip on a free drink while you get beautified. The stylists use really lightweight yet effective styling products from Neuma. They also offers updos, scalp massages, deep conditioning treatments, and makeup application - making Mane Blow Dry Bar your single pre-party destination. You can also use their plush dressing rooms to go from beauty salon to party.

I loved my curls and will definitely be going back. I am thinking about booking a few pre-work appointments too, since they open at 8 AM!

I am excited to check out the collection. You can shop all Pixi Beauty Products at Target!

I know. You're careful with your hair. You don't over style it, you don't wash it too frequently, you use an uber-gentle shampoo, and you deep condition regularly. But sometimes, no matter how fastidious you've been, you still end up with a handful of split ends.

Hair experts say that the only way to really get rid of split ends is to cut them off, which is truly the last thing any of us want to hear. Yup, it's totally frustrating— particularly if you're trying to grow your hair out and want to skip a trim or two!

Enter Nexxus' new Pro Mend hair care line. Nexxus claims that these products will bind those pesky splits back together, make your hair look healthier, and help prevent further damage from daily styling.

Utterly intrigued, I couldn't resist giving Nexxus Pro-Mend Split End Binding Straightening Lotion a try. Especially since Nexxus was kind enough to send Skinnypurse a full-sized sample. So, the next time I shampooed and conditioned, I worked a fat pump of the coco-nutty-scented straightening lotion into my towel-dried hair and then blew it dry while using my fingers to smooth and straighten it.

While I can't say that my hair was split-end free, I can absolutely say that my fine hair looked and felt thicker and stronger. Not only that, this product kept my hair smooth, straight, and frizz-free all day long (which is nothing short of a miracle for me). Needless to say, I was quite pleased with the results! Nexxus Pro-Mend should never be a substitute for handling your tresses with serious TLC. However, it's definitely an option for maintaining your hair's health and keeping your style sleek and healthy- looking between trims.

Nexxus Pro-Mend Split End Binding Straightening Lotion is under $12 and available at Ulta.

Don't get me wrong - I love a good designer collaboration, but sometimes when a fashion duo decides to join forces, the resulting team effort is so intense and extensive (not to mention in such high demand) that it's either too overwhelming or too popular to even bother trying to get your hands on most of the pieces. That's why I was relieved that Wren x Clare Vivier decided to keep their latest team-up a simple yet fabulous one! The celestial tote fuses the two designer styles in a split-personality sort of way, forming one perfect-for-summer tote bag. One side of this reversible bag is buttery soft leather (in your choice of cognac or green) and the other is Wren's signature celestial print, and serves as the perfect carry-all for the fashionista who can't make up her mind. You gotta love a tote that pleases your adventurous side when you want something fun, and your classic side when you need a bag that just goes with everything!

- Alexandra Gambardella

Mom would never truly relax and kick up her heels until everyone's needs had been met. She'd eat dinner last, after spending most of the meal serving the rest of the family. She'd go to bed last, after spending the evening tucking everyone in and tending to their requests for one more story or snuggle. And she'd be the first family member up in the morning, with breakfast on the table and lunches packed.

She was my chauffer, my tutor, my confidant. My mom was my go to for every tear shed, every teenage door slammed, and side-aching belly laugh.

I look back on all those times my mom said those words to me, and realize that she always had a glimmer in her eye and smile on her face when she said them. Because, though everything she did for her kids may have felt like a sacrifice, each act was done out of love and devotion to her family.

I often think about those words as navigate the role of motherhood and raise my own little kids. While it is exhausting and often times draining tending to every tiny need, at the end of the day, I am filled with joy. Motherhood is a sacrifice - but one I would never choose to change.

Mother's day is right around the corner! Here are a few favorite gifts for all moms.

Give mom the gift of...

Give her the gift of relaxation with a pair of soft jersey PJ Salvage Jammies. I love the Birds of Summer print, with its happy-go-lucky lime green and turquoise color scheme. ($40-$60)

Whether the kids are in diapers or high-school, mom needs a bag of her own. This coral leather Brompton hobo is stylish and sophisticated, but still offers plenty of room for an endless supply of snacks ($258).

Mom's love to remember the stages of their kid's lives. Give her the gift of the memory of baby's birthday, or when she first met her true love. She will always remember the special occasion with dalla nonna's calendar bracelet® in rose gold ($650). I am also a huge fan of these monogrammed bracelets and necklaces from LuciaK Jewelry, as they have a slightly vintage feel.

I don't know how mom seems to remember it all. Make it easy with these monogrammed chunky note pads, perfect for jotting down to-dos ($45).

Give mom something to tuck into her suitcase for a beachy trip. These bright and colorful pareos are made from soft cotton voile hand and hand screen printed. Plus, she'll even get some handy tying tips ($58).

Bright, cheerful accessories always make mom smile. I am obsessed with these stacking Lindsay bangles from Stella & Dot, and want one in every color! ($48 each)

Ok, maybe moms don't need diamonds, but how fun would it be to give her some? Like this gorgeous diamond bow necklace ($485)? Necklace is set on a 14k yellow gold chain and features 0.09 carats of diamonds.

Or, get the look of diamonds for less with these pretty Baby Pod Heart Stud earrings ($95)

What are you getting your mom this mother's day?

What It Is:

Bite Beauty Lip Rouge in Geranium and Nectarine

Why This Should Be in Your Bag:

Multi-purpose products always intrigue me. Even though I have hoards of makeup, including more lip color and blush than I could possibly ever use, I couldn’t wait to test out this combo lip/cheek product from Bite. Bite Beauty also packs their lip products with “resveratrol, which fights free radicals with potent long-term anti-aging benefits,” and these are no exception.

Bite Beauty says we should expect “a multitasking lip color and blush, rich with build-able layers of color and a satin texture.” I’m a bit hesitant about the texture working on both my lips and cheeks, but I have used cream blushes as lipsticks before, so this may just work!

Find out how to use it here!

Currently, anything goes when it comes to nail trends. The more colorful and intricate the design, the better! I love these polka dotted nail styles above.

For day, a simple dual shade manicure works great – paint 4 nails on each hand in one color, and then do a complimentary color on the last nail. Alternately, you can play on the French manicure look by painting the moon shape of your nail in a bright color. For a really creative look, you can paint or stencil tiny pictures on each nail. With endless possibilities, it's so fun to experiment with different looks.

All those different nail styles require a rainbow of colors, which can add up. However, you can find great deals on brand name nail polishes and other beauty supplies from Image Beauty. Get everything you need for a DIY manicure, and then some!

Not only do they carry well-known nail brands like Essie, you can also stock up on all the beauty products you might have in regular rotation. I found one of my favorite lipsticks from Revlon and my go-to mascara from Maybelline all in one place, and all super inexpensive prices.

What are you favorite nail trends for this season?

This is a partnered post written by me on behalf of Image Beauty. All opinions are 100% mine.

Choosing a shower theme is always a fun part of the planning process. You can have so much fun with color palettes, and picking out items that represent the bride’s personality. I was recently checking out the selection of bridal shower favors from American Bridal, and found a few cute ideas for a girlie-themed party.

Pictured clockwise from top left:

Wrapped in pale pink tissue paper, and tied with a black ribbon, these mannequin-shaped soaps give a nod to the bridal gown. Super cute as favors for bridal shower guests.

What could be sweeter than a monogrammed cookie? These scalloped-edged circle cookies can be personalized with the bride-to-be's initials. I love this personal touch to party favors.

You can never go wrong with mints. This adorable tins are filled with delectable mints, to keep breath fresh while providing a reminder of the upcoming big day.

Bring a touch of the most romantic city in the world to your table top with these mini-Eiffel Tower place card holders. They double as a photo holder that guests can take home.

All items above are available at AmericanBridal.com.

What are you favorite ideas for bridal shower favors?

This is a partnered post written by me on behalf of American Bridal. All opinions are 100% mine.

Colorful hues, exotic skins and stylish designs make up the essence of Johanna Konanz handbags. Inspired by old Hollywood glamour, the designer set out to create a line of bags for every occasion, incorporating an element of luxury in the materials she uses.

Without sacrificing a drop of style, Konanz uses premium python and crocodile for her line of bags. All of the skins are sustainably sourced under CITES (Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora), a program in Colombia which works to maintain the balance of biodiversity in the wild.

I was thrilled to review a hand-picked selection of Johanna Konanz bags up close and personal. Beginning with a large, top handle red python and white canvas bag, perfect as an everyday carryall. I love how this bag mixes luxurious details like the python skin, and casual practicality of the canvas. It gives a bit of a nod to the nautical as well.

The Firenze Handbag in bright yellow python is one of my favorites. Double top handles and a bright purple suede lining create a chic ladylike bag. The material is lightweight, perfect for a mom like me who always seems to have too much stuff in her bag. I like how the empty bag is light to begin with. Bag measures 12" x 8" x 7".

The Amalfi Handbag is ideal for a day in town - lunch, errands, shopping. A compact style and cross-body strap create convenience, while the bright blue crocodile skin and canvas body provide a modern mix of materials. The strap is detachable to convert the bag to a chic clutch. Bag measures 12” x 7” x 2.

For evening, the Rimini Clutch is a must. Two colors of python skin meld to create a stunning contrast, tied all together with a long chain shoulder strap. This is one that will turn heads. The compact size holds just the essentials for a night out. Bag measures 5.5" x 7" x 2".

Finally, hold money and credit cards in the Capri Wallet. Bright red Crocodile skin adds a pop of color. The zip around closure provides easy access. Sixteen credit card slots, two billfold compartments and one zip pocket provide plenty of room. Wallet measures 8” x 4”. (I received a red wallet, but the one pictured on the site is blue).

For more information and to shop the collection, visit JohannaKonanz.com.

Recently, my 4.5 yr old daughter has requested a nightly ritual of washing our faces together and doing a beauty mask. I am all for implementing a good beauty routine at a young age, but it has gotten me thinking about what kinds of chemicals she might be applying to her delicate skin. My favorite mask has a clay base and I have let her use it, but for a regular routine I would like something more natural.

I love how asking the universe a question often results in a (good or bad) answer - and was really excited when a box of organic skin care products for kids arrived in the mail the other day.

Shea Moisture's new Organic Baby skincare line includes everything you need to pamper baby. The Shea-based formulas have a light, lovely scent and are ultra moisturizing.

My youngest is a typical 2-year old boy. He climbs on everything and is constantly moving. The other day he climbed up onto a little side table and slid down one side to the ground. Though he was smiling, it did result in a scrape on his tummy. I applied some Shea Moisture Organic Raw Shea Butter Baby Eczema Therapy to his scrape and within a few days, it is healing quite quickly.

The Head to Toe Baby Ointment is a must-have for any medicine cabinet. Designed to help combat baby Psoriasis and Eczema, I find it really works wonders on calming little scratches and blisters as well. Baby skin tends to get bumpy, and this formula goes on smoothe and calms those irritations quickly.

Some of the all-natural ingredients include Shea Butter, natural oils and extracts. All the products are free from parabens, phthalates, paraffin, gluten, propylene glycol and other nasty synthetic ingredients.

Available for under $10 at Target.

Like many high school girls, I was giddy at prom time. Aside from waiting for that special someone to pop the question, it was fun to plan the night with friends. From the location of the pre-party photos to the after party plans, each element of prom planning was a blast. My favorite part though, was shopping for a dress.

Known for providing everything a bride needs for her big day, David's Bridal has always been a reliable source. But, did you know they also offer a huge selection of prom dresses? From simply elegant little black dresses to colorful ombre gowns, David's Bridal has dresses for every personality.

Pictured above left to right:

Strapless Sequin and Taffeta Short Dress ($69); Strapless Taffeta Bubble Dress with Bow Waist ($59.50)

I had some fun shopping the site as if I were picking out a prom dress. Here are a few I thought were prom-perfect:

Pictured above left to right:

No necklace necessary with this black Beaded Twist Neck Knit Gown ($119). The intricate beadwork adds an elegant touch, and I love the long length and crisscross back. Keep the look consistent with a pair of black strappy sandals. Or, add some metallic shine with a pair of silver or gold pumps.

Pump up the drama in this Key Hole Halter Ombre Glitter Gown ($189). Sparkly green hues create a mysterious and elegant look. Again, you would not need much jewelry here, as the dress makes a bold statement. Simple drop earrings would be lovely.

I'm (clearly) loving the Greek goddess looks here, and am a major fan of this Sleeveless Beaded Ombre Chiffon Gown ($199). With a pastel color palette and an ethereal design, this dress has 'belle of the ball' written all over it. Keep the overall look light and airy with nude strappy heels.

For the ultimate ball gown, the Strapless Layered Tulle Gown ($259) shines in bright fuchsia and tangerine. A sparkly sequined bodice and sweetheart neckline provide a romantic, feminine look. The pretty neckline is the perfect backdrop for a simple pendant necklace.

What is your favorite prom dress style?

This is a partnered post written by me on behalf of David's Bridal. All opinions are 100% mine.

Summer is right around the corner and by now you are probably wearing open toed sandals. I love this time of year! A pretty pedicure and a great pair of sandals are the perfect combo for fun in the sun. I've been loving my new pair of Fibi and Clo sandals that the brand sent me. A mix of jewels and

Launching in the summer of 2009, AnaLiza Alba got the idea for Fibi & Clo while brunching with friends. She noticed the inviting and casual atmosphere, and thought about creating a line of sandals that could be sold at trunk shows, instead of through traditional retail channels. Named after her two cats, Fibi & Clo is a collection of stylish and affordably priced sandals. Together with her business partner and fiancé Michael Leen, the two continue to grow the company.

I was excited to receive a pair of their bestselling Smoke Cascade Sandals ($45). Not only are they gorgeously adorned with smokey jewels and pearl accents, but they are amazingly comfortable. Unlike typical flip flops, the design of the cascade sandals allows your toes to rest, no need for them to do any work to keep them on. The strap feels super secure. These are perfect sandals for crusing around town doing errands, shopping or sightseeing. The design is so pretty too. I love the cascading effect.

Fibi & Clo sandals come in a variety of styles from flats to wedges, and are sold exclusively at in-home shoe parties and online at FibiandClo.com.

Have you shopped the Nicole Miller Spring 2012 collection yet? Complete with bright prints and solid colors, the collection of bags, shoes and clothing is all under $100! Available at jcp.com and jcpenney stores nationwide. Perfect for brightening up your wardrobe as temps get warmer.

As if I needed something new to obsess over, I've recently developed a big appreciation for glossy lip pencils. There's something so unexpected, fun, and surprising about applying using a pencil and getting rich, shiny, glossy color rather than the waxy finish you'd normally expect from a pencil. Sure, they might not be quite as practical when it comes to actually needing to sharpen these bad boys (glossy color all over your sharpener, plus too much precious product wasted!), but they're still fun to collect and use when they're not making a mess out of your beauty tools! In celebration of these fun lip colors, I've rounded up a few celebrated favorites that pack a three-in-one punch: rich, saturated, lipstick-quality color, high-shine gloss, with the application precision of a pencil. Whether you prefer your lips bold and bright for spring, or like to keep things subtle with soft pinks and peaches this season, get your fill with the best of the best!

From left to right: Sephora Ultra Vinyl Lip Pencil, Milani Lip Flash, Urban Decay Super-Saturated High Gloss Lip Color, Nars Velvet Gloss Lip Pencil, and Lipstick Queen Chinatown Glossy Pencil.

- Alexandra Gambardella

Now that spring is officially here, I am officially looking for a new swim suit. Unfortunately, living in Seattle with days like today (rainy), sunshine and swimsuit weather seem far away. But...A girl can still dream right?

Like many of you online shopping fashionistas, I have been scouring my favorite sites for the perfect suit. And though bold, jewel tone colors are so fun to wear, this swim season, I am finding myself drawn to black and white star prints. Big and bold, or tiny and sweet, I love them all.

Here are a couple swim suits and cover ups that have me seeing stars (Clockwise from top left)...

A black and white star print, in the most literal form, on the most classic bikini style ever. Zadig & Voltaire's Star-print triangle bikini ($97.50) offers a flattering fit in stretch cotton and elastane. Throw on a bright cover up for a bold contrast.

How cute is this black and white star print romper ($48) from Nasty Gal? Love the exposed zipper and laid back style. I am a sucker for a racer back (seriously) - I think it's so flattering! Think you can't wear a romper? Try this one.

Loving retro styled bathing suits right now. I can't decide to go one-piece or two, either way is super flattering and totally on trend. This white bikini with tiny black astericks ($68) has me swooning.

Finally, head from beach to table with this star print dress from Sonia by Sonia Rykiel ($550). Details include a ruffle bodice, silk crepe de chine pleated skirt and tie front. Oh yes, and this detail will take me from a "no go" to a "must buy": pockets.

What do you think of star prints? Too much or yes please?

Does your hair ever need a spa day? Is it ever dull, overprocessed, dry? I know mine is. To help bring it back to life, I have been using Salon Grafix Healthy Hair Nutrition Intensive Hair Repair Masque once every two weeks.

Made by Salon Grafix, known for high-quality and affordable hair care, the Healthy Hair Nutrition Intensive Hair Repair Masque is a deep conditioning treatment. Since I have color-treated hair, I am always concerned about using products that don't preserve color. However, this formula works wonders on color treated hair. It leaves hair feeling moisturized and smooth, without weighing it down. My hair also becomes more manageable. I am not sure if this is possible, but I actually feel like it takes less time to blow dry my hair after using this product! It also smells amazing - a major plus in my book!

It's very easy to use. Simply wash hair and apply the masque. Leave on for 15-20 minutes (perfect excuse to grab a cup of tea), rinse hair, dry and style.

Salon Grafix's Intensive Hair Repair Masque costs under $7 and can be found nationwide at Wal-Mart, CVS, Rite Aid and Walgreens.

Lucky you! Today and tomorrow only, save 20% on CC Skye bags and jewelry at stefaniBags.com. Shop the spring collection!