christmas traditions

here I am with my gorgeous sister at our party
jumpsuit:Swirl Boutique. bangles:Alex and Ani.

best secret santa gift ever: dog toys for Anabelle :)

One of my favorite parts of the holiday season is the Christmas gift exchange that my husband, sister, and friends all take part in. We have been having our holiday party for quite a few years now and we enjoy each others company, drinks, delicious food, and our secret santa gift exchange. You really can't go wrong with that combination. 

As we hosted this year, I went with wearing something comfortable, flexible, and chic for the party. This jumpsuit from Swirl Boutique was the perfect choice. The print is so fun and on-trend while the fit and cut (I am strapless lover!) fit my body type so well. Swirl Boutique never lets me down and they surely didn't this time. 

Tomorrow is New Year's Eve and I am sure you all have fabulous plans because you are all fabulous (yes, each and everyone of you!). I am looking forward to all of the chic and party ready dresses and wardrobe ensembles you all will prepare. Here is to a holiday post manana. 

xoxo Amanda

city vibes

scarf:Target. sweater:J.Crew. tank:Nordstrom. jeggings:American Eagle Outfitters.

Downtown San Diego has such an awesome vibe and I am always enamored by the city. We spent the day yesterday with friends touring downtown, having an amazing dinner at Top of the Market, and ending the night at Dublins Square. We couldn't have asked for a better day. 

In terms of styling my outfit for the day, my first question was "what will the weather be like?" - answer:COLD. Second, I asked myself, "what is comfortable and stylish to walk around for miles in?" The answer to that question can be a lot harder to answer. I prefer to stick with streamlined basics that work in any setting. Take, for example, my plaid scarf: chic, classic, and fashionable. I threw the scarf on over a black tank layered under my J.Crew sweater with satin pleating on the trim. Instead of going with basic jeans, I went with my soft, uber-comfortable jeggings from American Eagle Outfitters. That was quite possibly the best choice I could have made. I was comfortable, stylish, and appropriately dressed for all of the different activities we took part in throughout the day. 

xoxo Amanda

J.Crew Saturday

sweater:J.Crew. necklace:J.Crew(similar). jeans:Gap(similar). shoes:Forever 21. handbag:Betsey Johnson (old). watch:Michael Kors. 

Who doesn't love J.Crew? They are such a classic, American staple in the fashion world. I love the silhouettes, materials, and pieces they create for us fashion aficionados. This hot-pink sweater is one of my favorites and has such a fun punch to it. The white and jeweled statement necklace brought even more personality to my outfit. Weekend wear is my favorite to style. Everything about a relaxed, carefree, and effortless style is right up my alley. 

xoxo Amanda

merry christmas

Merry Christmas from my family to yours. 

Thank you for all of the love, support, and dedication to What Amanda Wore. I am grateful for all of you and for what this blog has become. 

Enjoy the holiday with your loved ones. 

xoxo Amanda

morning routine

What does your morning routine looks like? Here is a little part of my routine. Although it is a small part of my morning routine it happens to be one of the most important. 

I make healthy eating and a healthy lifestyle one of my top priorities. Of course, I believe everything in moderation is the way to live my life. I am never one to deprive myself because, quite frankly, a bite of cake isn't going to make me gain ten pounds. Binge eating entire cakes will. Instead, I maintain my weight by eating a clean, healthy lifestyle 85-90% of the time and indulging on certain occasions such as a dinner out at a restaurant or friend's birthday. I was diagnosed gluten intolerant years ago and chose to avoid gluten, but still enjoy those gluten-free treats every once and a while. 

I am very passionate about clean eating and knowing what ingredients I am putting into my body and what processed food and chemicals I do not want to ingest. Part of that lifestyle means taking the proper vitamins and supplements to strengthen my health and well being. Here are those vitamins and supplements that are constants. I occasionally will add things here or there, but these are my go-to choices. 

I have seen such great benefits from taking my daily dose of apple cider vinegar. There are numerous reasons apple cider vinegar is good for your health, such as keeping your skin and PH levels balanced, helping with indigestion, easing a sore throat, boosting your energy, maintaining a healthy weight, and controlling your blood sugar on top of many other amazing benefits. Please check it out and see if this is something that would help you in your daily life. 

I encourage you all to take the time for your daily vitamins - a little bit each day helps to make a stronger you. 

xoxo Amanda

flynn skye goodness

jumper:flynn skye. bracelets:Alex and Ani. necklace:Nordstrom. 

Please, please, please tell me that you have heard of Flynn Skye. I hope you have and I hope you visit their website if you haven't. They have such beautiful pieces and are great investments for your closet. This jumper is so stunning and flattering for all body types. I do have to say though if you are interested in this jumper plan on having it hemmed. I am 5' 10" and the jumper was still incredibly long on me. 

Happy styling my friends. 

xoxo Amanda

when in doubt, flannel

flannel:American Eagle Outfitters. tank:Free People. jeggings:American Eagle Outfitters. boots:Vince Camuto(via Nordstrom). hat:Nordstrom(old). sunnies:Ray Bans. handbag:Target style.

When in doubt, flannel. Take head to this advice. Flannels are always a great choice, especially for the more chilly fall and winter days where layering is a must. 

American Eagle Outfitters has the greatest flannels. They are so soft and comfortable. I honestly asked my husband last night why I don't wear flannels 24/7 because I was in heaven. Let's face it ... if I wore flannels all of my other clothes would be shedding little tears, but that's a whole other day, my friends. 

I was able to dress up this flannel with some great, black skinny jeggings from American Eagle along with my black riding boots and chic black handbag. What is your go-to weekend look? Please share them with me via my email or twitter. 

xoxo Amanda

current obesession: Taylor's outfit

Amazing on all levels. Instant outfit inspiration. Let's all sort through our closets and repeat this look A.S.A.P. On your mark, get set, go! 

xoxo Amanda

sweater weather

sweater:birthday gift - no label. jeans:GAP. belt:Lucky Brand. shoes:Jeffrey Campbell. 

cargos:American Eagle Outfitters. sweater:Free People. tank:Nordstrom. booties:Sam Edelman. watch:Michael Kors. ring:Brandy Melvilee. 

I am definitely a sweater weather fan and these last few days were no exception. I am obsessing over all of the cozy, winter looks I get to wear and am enjoying every second of it. I hope the winter season is treating you all well. 

                             xoxo Amanda

oh, Christmas tree

It's beginning to look a lot like Christmas at my house. I couldn't help myself and had to buy and decorate a little tree for our little Anabelle. 

I hope you all are enjoying your holiday season and decorating your homes.  

russian red

A classic red lip is a must-do for the holiday season. There is nothing better than a pop of color to spice up your usual holiday attire. Here I paired my favorite red lipstick (MAC Russian Red) with my plaid scarf for a spot on holiday look. 

What is your go-to holiday make-up? Email or tweet me. I would love to hear what your must haves in your make-up bag are. 

Here is to best wishes for a great rest of your week! 

xoxo Amanda

lipstick:MAC. scarf:Target. 

make-up forever HD foundation

Like your mama always told you, a little goes a long way. This is especially true with make-up. Often times this is my go-to make-up look: soft, natural, and fresh. I always go for products that feel great on my skin and suit my coloring. I highly suggest taking the time to be matched by a make-up professional for a foundation to ensure the color and type of foundation is best for your skin. 

I just picked up Make-Up Forever HD foundation from Sephora and love it. I'm glad after all the years of rave reviews I finally tried it. It gives such a nice color and lasts all day! It still lets my freckles shine through. What do you all think? What's your favorite foundation? Share your beauty favorites with me! Email or tweet me. 

xoxo Amanda 

life as we know it

I am in awe of how blessed we are to live on such a beautiful planet. Let's work together to conserve our resources, treat our planet with love, and preserve it for our future generations. 

And on this Monday and always remember that life is breathtakingly beautiful. 

xoxo Amanda

black suede shoes

Oh, #Targetstyle, you kill me every time! Target always knocks it out of the park with their darling clothing and accessories. Exhibit A: these darling loafers with the gold chain design by Sam&Libby. 

These loafers took my basic boyfriend jeans, black tank, and black blazer look to the next level in style and detail. They truly look like they had a $200 or more price tag when realistically it was around $20! #winning #ilovedeals

I spent yesterday afternoon in one of my favorite towns: Julian, CA. They are known for their darling main street, apple pies, and hometown feel. This was as cold of weather that I could find in Southern California - 53 degrees! Maybe I need a weekend in Big Bear for some real cold weather and snow. 

Happy Sunday my beautiful WhatAmandaWore family. Enjoy it. Savor it. Stay in your pajamas a little longer than normal. Spend time with your loved ones. Do what you need to do to relax and truly enjoy your day. 

xoxo Amanda 

elizabeth and james nirvana

Every once and a while that great perfume comes along and you become instantaneously obsessed and hooked all at once. Get ready to find yourself enamored with the Elizabeth and James Nirvana perfume line. Oh, heavens! 

Sephora describes the Nirvana White as, "a captivating blend of delicate peony, chic muguet, and tender musk for a feminine scent with dark sophistication."  I instantly fell in love with the scent. It is classy, rich, and sophisticated without overpowering the woman herself. 

Sephora describes the Nirvana Black as, "an addictive blend of alluring violet, sensual sandalwood, and rich vanilla that strike the perfect balance between masculine and feminine." It is so yummy. 

Keep these two great scents in mind as you finish your Christmas shopping or even as a great treat for yourself. 

Happy shopping, y'all!

xoxo Amanda

My favorite purse-sized rollerball - Nirvana White. 

all about that jumpsuit

Hello beauties, 

Happy Friday to you all! I am so ready for a weekend of holiday fun. We will be picking out our Christmas tree this weekend as well as spending a day in the mountains with my sister and attending the San Juan Capistrano Christmas Tree Lighting ceremony.

This look is one of my favorite new looks from my closet. How amazing is this jumpsuit? Swirl Boutique in San Clemente never lets me down, EVER. They have the greatest, one-of-a-kind pieces that add so much depth into my wardrobe. For those of you Southern California locals, check it out A.S.A.P. You won't regret it. 

headband:JolieUSA. jumpsuit:SwirlBoutique. pumps:Enzo Angiolini(similar). 

tis the season for holiday parties

                          Hello lovelies, 

Tis the season for holiday parties and get togethers with your nearest and dearest. As the saying goes, "half the fun is getting there," but I think half the fun is getting ready. Who doesn't love the glamourous holiday make-up, intricate hairstyles, and chic outfits? And I have yet to mention the festive food, drinks, and champs. #letsparty 

Most women reach for that go-to L.B.D. (little black dress) for their holiday parties without even the slightest hesitation. I strongly encourage you to reach for something bold with color or pattern to jazz up your party look. If you are more comfortable with your L.B.D. as your outfit base and want to stay loyal (hey, I don't blame you!), add a sparkly belt (Anthropologie has gorgeous bejeweled belts), a red lip, or a eyecatching headband. It will take your L.B.D. to the next level. 

Here are some of my favorite styling inspiration photos for all of those upcoming holiday parties. 

                  Happy holidays! xoxo Amanda

Holiday Party Outfit: Time to put on that party dress. 

This cocktail dress is a knockout in its classic silhouette and striking shade of blue. This breaks the L.B.D. mold while still allowing you to feel comfortable and safe in your wardrobe choice. 

Love, love, love this look. Flirty, modern, and truly eye-catching. You will steal the show wearing this to any of your holiday parties. I would recommend a longer skirt for any business holiday parties in which you are with co-workers, your boss, and network connections. 

This look just screams "adorable" in all the right ways. I love the balancing of the bright, sequined leggings with the neutral colored accessories. The red pants are allowed to stand out as the star of the entire ensemble. 

This look is great for all ages and body types. The peplum top and sequined leggings have such an "I'm so fancy" vibe, am I right? Not to mention those stilettos. Gorgeous! 

A skirt with feathers you may ask. I say, "Yes. Always yes." The key to wearing such a statement piece as a feathered skirt is balance. The skirt is balanced out by the classic pieces it is paired with such as a fitted black blazer, t-shirt, and black clutch. I die for this outfit. 

How gorgeous is this skirt? I love the contrast of the grey, knit sweater with the fancy sequined skirt. She nailed this outfit.


Make-Up and Hair Inspo: Putting on the Glitz.

sweet as pie

Who doesn't love the smell of homemade apple-berry pie baking to a crispy, golden heaven of deliciousness? Well, lucky for you, I have the recipe to quench your fall and winter apple pie cravings. 

I made this pie on a chilly, rainy day here in Southern California. We don't get many of those days often and I took to all of the cold weather "musts" like baking to savor the cold weather. 

photo and recipe courtesy of all recipes

Apple-Berry Pie

ingredients: 

1 pastry for a 9 inch double crust pie 

1 cup white sugar 

4 tsp. tapioca 

1/2 tsp. ground cinnamon

2 cups fresh, organic blackberries

2 cups organic, cored, peeled, and sliced granny smith apples

2 tbs. butter, cut into small pieces (cubed)

prep: 20 minutes 

cook: 50 minutes 

directions:

Preheat oven to 375 degrees F (190 degrees C). On a lightly floured surface, roll out one crust, and place in a 9 inch pie plate. Roll out top crust, and set aside.

In a large bowl, mix together the sugar, tapioca, and cinnamon. Add blackberries and apple slices. Toss gently to coat without mashing the berries. Let stand for 20 minutes.

Spoon filling into pastry lined pan. Dot with butter. Moisten the edge of the pastry with water. Cover with top crust; trim and crimp edge. Cut a few slits in the top to allow steam to escape during baking. Cover edge with foil to prevent over-browning.

Bake in preheated oven for 25 minutes. Remove foil, and continue baking for 20 to 25 minutes, or until crust is golden brown. Cool on wire rack.

Serve and enjoy :) 

I recommend serving with a scoop of delicious and all natural vanilla ice-cream (such as Tillamook's Old-Fashioned Vanilla ice-cream). 

sweet, little accessories

Y'all know I love #targetstyle and am always a fan of chic and fashionable deals. While I was shopping there today (stocking up on Christmas decorations and ornaments) I couldn't pass these beauties by. How darling is this "retail therapy" credit card wallet? I think it is the perfect thing for all of my retail membership cards, coupons, and gift cards. Please tell me I am not the only one to struggle as I try to find my Sephora VIB membership card as I am paying at the cash register. #toomanycards #sorryforthewaitladiesandgents

I am a sucker for polka dots. They are chic and classic. Heavens, as I am writing this I am sporting my favorite polka dot pajamas. Clearly I love my patterns. I am planning to put this wallet to good use. 

xoxo Amanda

retail therapy wallet:Target. polka dot wallet:Target.

                             

current obsession: Julianne's messy bob

After years of having longgggg hair, it feels so great to have a messy, textured bob. My latest hair crush is Ms. Julianne Hough. 

How gorgeous is she? Not to mention her fabulous hair cut and styling. Here is to hair inspiration on the daily. 

photos courtesy of pinterest.

some must have styling products for this hair style: 

Garnier Fructis Volume Extend Dry Shampoo:Drugstores

Living proof amp: Living Proof.

bumble and bumble surf spray:Sephora.