Veronica M Women’s Clothing Review and Giveaway

Veronica M. Clothing is on online retailer specializing in modest, sophisticated and fashionable apparel. They offer an extensive line of women’s clothing that is stylish, modest, yet amazingly comfortable.

As a busy mother, I often find it difficult to look as sexy as I feel. Veronica M. brings a whole new meaning to sexy with their fashion forward modest apparel. Veronica M. clothing will transform your look from tired and worn down to chic and trendy.

I recently had the opportunity to review one of Veronica M’s fabulous maxi dresses from their new Summer 2010 collection.

Beige V-Neck Maxi Dress

 

Simply chic, simply irresistible!  This stylish maxi dress features a v-neck with cinched detailing at the waist. With the illusion of a empire waist, you will feel an immediate confidence boost as this dress is both slimming and absolutely stunning. Matching ties with brushed gold toggles at front create texture and a sense of playfulness.

Like most of the apparel found at Veronica M, this fashionable dress adds style and functionality. Pair it with a bolero shrug and classic heels for appropriate work attire, or wear it alone with a cute pair of gladiator sandals, sexy heels or even flats-perfect for any occasion!

The poly/spandex blend make this flowing dress comfortable and cool, even in the 104°  weather we’re so “lucky” to have right now. I adore the lightweight material and feminine cut. Liquid seems to bead up and roll right off, which is ideal for most busy moms. This popular dress is currently unavailable, but here are a few similar dresses which I’ve added to my wish list:

 

In addition to their amazing maxi dresses, VeronicaM also has a generous selection of short dresses, mid-length dresses, skirts, pants, rompers and stylish tops. Don’t compromise comfort for style, enjoy them both with Veronica M Clothing!

WHERE TO BUY: Veronica M. Clothing can be found throughout California in Los Angeles, Old Town Pasadena, Santa Monica, and Studio City. Locate a local Veronica M. or shop online.

WIN IT: Veronica M. has generously offered to provide one lucky reader with the item of their choice up to $100. Enter the VeronicaM Giveaway here.

Disclaimer: The Beige V-Neck Maxi Dress was provided to me in exchange for my honest review. I received no other compensation for my review. The opinions and thoughts expressed are my own.

Smitten NYC Clothing Review

Inspired by 1940’s romantic comic books, Smitten NYC Clothing combines retro details with modern cuts to create a feminine, chic, trendy clothing line for today’s stylish woman. Smitten Clothing is driven by the idea to help everywoman feel “Smitten” which is why they offer fabulous clothing pieces such as cardigan sweaters, flattering dresses, casual trendy shirts, cute dressy tops, and sleeveless tank tops.

Smitten has a generous selection of classic tank tops with a high-end designer feel to them. Summer is the idea season to wear tank tops, but here in Texas, they are worn all year round. Keeping this in mind, I wanted something that I would enjoy wearing throughout the year. After several fun hours of shopping and contemplating, I decided on the Tank with Cartoon Detail.

 

The Cartoon Detail Tank features a deep scoopneck in front, and mid scoop in back. It is made with beautiful stitching detail along the arm line as well as double stitching at the hemline. The hemline includes a wide band with a small slit on each side. The bust area features a pocket on the left side with the whimsical detail of two comic characters sharing a passionate kiss.

From first glance, you will only see the top of the (comic) man’s head. Once you pull the pocket outwards, the romantic kiss is revealed. The photo shown above resembles the pocket’s comic book detail, only without the “Smitten” thought bubble.

This white tank top is made from 100% cotton and is undeniably the softest tank top I have ever worn. The material is much more lightweight compared to a traditional cotton t-shirt. If I hadn’t read the label, I would not believe this tank was made from cotton. It feels more like a delicate silk or rayon/wool blend. The care instructions are easy to follow: hand wash, lay flat to dry. This tank top is very well made and looks brand new after several washes.

Subtle, clever stitching gives this shirt the appearance of an expensive sweater rather than a plain tank top.The Tank with Cartoon Detail can be worn casually with shorts, jeans, or capris and flip flops throughout the warmer months. Yet,this tank proves its versatility when paired with a nice pair of denim jeans, leggings, or dress pants and  blazer for a polished, dressed up, sophisticated look through the cooler months. I could not have made a better selection! This tank provides everything I was looking for.

There is a bit of sheerness to this top, allowing the skin tones to be exposed. If you would like to appear modest, pairing a camisole is a quick and easy resolution. I actually found this to be a great feature, as it only adds to its versatility. In respect to sizing, it appears Smitten NYC clothing may run large. Normally, I require an X-Large, but their available clothing sizes are X-Small-Large. I chose large and it fits me perfectly. I was not able to locate a sizing chart, but Smitten will respond to any questions via email or telephone.

Smitten’s website is super easy to navigate and it took me no time at all to fall in love with their beautiful collection of vintage inspired clothing. Once you see their latest styles, you will understand why I had such a hard time choosing just one item. Here are a few items on my wish list:

When you shop at Smitten NYC, you can expect to find the hottest “dressed to kill” styles. I admire the fact that they are able to offer sexy, unique clothing, while remaining modest and comfortable at the same time. Smitten exceeded my every expectation. From their lightening fast shipping, to their high-quality, I feel completely confident shopping with Smitten in the future.

BUY IT: The Tank with Cartoon Detail comes in ivory (white) and is available in sizes X-small, small, medium, and large. Retail: $93.00.

WHERE TO BUY: Smitten NYC can be found in 400 specialty stores, major department stores, top line retail stores, or conveniently purchased at the Smitten NYC online website. To locate an online retailer or local retailer, you may use www.thefind.com.

WIN IT: Smitten NYC has generously offered to provide one lucky reader with the item of their choice up to $100. Enter the Smitten Giveaway here.

Disclaimer: The Tank with Cartoon Detail was provided to me in exchange for my honest review. I received no other compensation for my review. The opinions and thoughts expressed are my own.

Angel Eyewear Sunglasses: Review

Sunglasses are a great way to accessorize any outfit but more importantly they are worn to protect our eyes from the sun’s harmful ultraviolet (UV) rays. Many sunglasses are designed simply for their style and forget to include the much needed protection. Fortunately, Angel Eyewear designs stylish and fashionable sunglasses complete with 100% UVA and UVB protection.

Angel Sunglasses are designed with fashion first and made to compliment the lifestyle of every woman. When you shop at Angel Eyewear, you know you will be shopping the highest quality handmade Italian glasses at the most affordable prices. Their sunglasses are made with zyl (zylonite, or cellulose acetate), nylon, high-grade nickel silver, and only the best hinges available to ensure a great fit and long lasting durability. Angel Eyewear Sunglasses will keep your sensitive eyes protected with their 100% UVB and UVA, scratch resistant coated lenses that offer ultimate optical clarity.

I was sent the following sunglasses:

Angel Mod Black Frame - Smoke Polarized Lens
$55.00

Wonder Bone/Smoke Polarized Lens
$65.00

Right away, I was impressed at how quickly I received my new sunglasses. Both pairs arrived in their own individual box. Upon opening each sunglass box, I was happily surprised to find each pair safely tucked away in a nice black protective sunglass case. One sophisticated sunglass case has the “angel” logo inscribed, while the other case has the angel logo directly below the angel wings. Each pair of sunglasses also included a warranty card, special lens cleaning cloth and angel sticker.

Inside of my heavy duty, black sunglass cases were the most stylish glasses I have ever laid eyes on. The detail is exquisite and more importantly they are extremely comfortable.

Women with a round face shape look best in rectangular (geometric or angular type) sunglasses, which is why I choose the Angel Wonder glasses. Not only are these glasses chic and sophisticated, but they match everything. They complete every outfit which is one of the reasons why I have been wearing them every day since I received them. Because they make my face appear longer and thinner, these are by far the best sunglasses I have ever owned. They’ve passed the toddler strength/durability test, getting sat on and even being left on the car dashboard on a hot sunny day.

Wonder Sunglass Features

Lightweight flexible Nylon frame material
5 barrel metal stop hinge
8 base sunglasses lenses
RXable lenses
Polarized styles available
100% UV Protection

The Wonder Sunglasses are available in a variety (5) of frame colors. Once you’ve decided on a frame color, you will have the option to customize the lens color. The price begins at $65.00 and varies up to $95.00, depending on your frame and lens choices.

The Mod Sunglasses have more of a square shape to them with a slight butterfly angle. I absolutely adore the black and red geometric shapes on the bands. The shape of these glasses didn’t agree with the shape of my round face. I believe these would look best on women who do not have a round face. I gave this pair to my sister-in-law and she must love them because she is wearing them every time I see her!

Mod Sunglass Features

Lightweight flexible Nylon frame material
5 Barrel Metal Stop Hinge
6 base lenses
RXable Sunglasses
Polarized styles available
100% UV Protection

In addition to being fashionable, both pairs of sunglasses are truly incredible. Many sunglasses look pretty until you put them on and notice everything has a new yellow, gray or blue tint. I did not encounter this problem with Angel Eyewear’s sunglasses. Both pair of glasses allowed me to view everything in its true color, yet everything looked clearer. Both worked incredibly by blocking the sun-especially in morning and late afternoon when the sun’s glare is the worst. When you’re looking for the latest trends in sunglasses at a reasonable price, there is no place better than Angel Eyewear.

BUY IT: Shop Angel Sunglasses, shop online or find a local retailer.

Disclaimer: Two pairs of Angel Sunglasses were provided to me in exchange for my honest review. I received no other compensation for my review. The opinions and thoughts expressed are my own.

50%-60% Off Top Designer Brands at Nordstrom Rack

We’ve all heard of Nordstrom department stores. They carry top designer brands such as Armani, Chloé, Dolce & Gabbana, Donna Karan, Michael Kors, Versace, Yves Saint Laurent, Spanx, and those are just to name a few. While the trendy merchandise is fashionable and fun to shop, these high end designer items come with a hefty price tag.

Did you know you can save on top-trend items all year round? Nordstrom Rack offers a wide selection of apparel, accessories and shoes from many of the brands carried in Nordstrom stores except at Nordstrom Rack, you’ll enjoy a savings of up to 70% off!

If I had to describe Nordstrom Rack to someone, I would say it is the most amazing store and every woman should visit at least once in her lifetime. Luckily we have 2 Nordstrom Racks in the Dallas Area and I have had a wonderful time shopping at both locations. I cannot wait to return! If you haven’t been, you are missing out on hot brands and incredible savings!

View the most popular brands.
Find a store near you.
Follow @nordstrom_rack on Twitter.
Connect with Nordstrom Rack on Facebook.

July Events
July 20, 2010 - New Arrivals Event:  Save an amazing 50-60% off of the original Nordstrom prices on women's apparel, men's apparel and shoes for the entire family just in from Nordstrom stores.

Calypso Studios: Necklace Review and Giveaway

Calypso Studios debuted in 2007 with a line of jewelry and accessories made using only the earth’s natural elements: clay, shell and glass. They create fashionable jewelry including everything from rings, necklaces, earrings, totes and more. Not only does Calypso Studios create the hottest, most trendsetting jewelry, but they do it with Mother Earth in mind. By collaborating with several environmental organizations, they are able to help keep landfills and water ways free of plastic and paper bags.

Calypso Studios sent me their beautiful Purple Sea Jewels Necklace. This hand strung, multi-strand necklace features polishes shells, resin, faux pearls and metal accents.

I admit, I was nervous about the fact of not having the option to choose my own necklace. Like most women, I am very particular when it comes to my taste in jewelry. Calypso Studios has such a unique selection of jewelry; they offer affordable jewelry and they definitely have something to suit any woman’s taste. I couldn't be more happy with the necklace that was chosen for me.

 

This long necklace includes a lobster claw clasp which is my favorite type of closure because it is easy to fasten and it is the most secure. There are four strands total which include a combination of deep purple, pastel purple, purplish-pink beads, shells and pearls with shiny silver accents. Purple is a color that compliments nearly every skin tone and the same rings true for me. The Purple Sea Jewels Necklace is such an eye-catcher. I have worn this necklace several times and each time, I am stopped by strangers offering compliments and asking where they can buy one. If purple is not your color of choice, here are a few more of my favorite pieces:

Buy It: 

Shop Calypso Studios online at http://calypso.cameoez.com/catalog/  OR

Win It!

One lucky review retreat reader will win a Calypso Studios Necklace!

How To Enter (required):

Visit Calypso Studios and let me know your favorite item.

Extra Entries (optional):

• Follow Review Retreat publicly via Google Friend Connect. +2
• Follow me on Twitter. +1
• Follow Calypso Studios on Twitter. +1
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• "Like" me on  Facebook . +1
• Sign up for Calypso Studios Newsletter by creating an account. +3
• Blog about this giveaway with a link back to this post. Comment with the post link.  +7
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• Tweet the following (up to 3x daily, include tweet link and do not tweet simultaneously) +1 each tweet

#Win a Designer Necklace Giveaway @Jennifer_Marek | #giveaway #contest #jewelry #vintage #necklace #fashion #natural | http://bit.ly/bls5Dq

Details:
Giveaway begins on June 8, 2010 and ends on June 26, 2010 at 11:59 cst. Winner will be chosen using Random.org. Giveaway open to US Only. Click here to view the complete giveaway rules/guidelines.

*Disclaimer: I received a free Calypso Studios Necklace in exchange  for my honest review. The opinions and thoughts expressed are my own. I received no other compensation for my review nor was I under any obligation to give a positive review or host a giveaway.

Alight Plus Size Fashion Giveaway

Alight specializes in Plus Size woman's clothing. Being a plus size woman myself I find it increasingly difficult to find quality, fashionable, trendy clothes in my size. Most of the clothing I come across looks like something my grandmother would wear. Hey, there is nothing wrong with grandma's clothes as long as they are being worn by grandma, instead of a young stylish mom.

Alight offers affordable plus size clothing for plus size gals of all sizes. Their sizes range from size 12 and extend to 34. Last month, I had the opportunity to review the Alight One Step Up Plus Day Glow Top in Yellow. You can read my review HERE. They have everything from evening gowns, to career apparel, to jeans and tees. Alight wants to help you look and feel like the sexy plus size woman you are! I want you to embrace your curves and stop hiding in baggy t-shirts and sweats! I am teaming up with Alight for a second giveaway to help you do just that!

Win It - One lucky reader will win a trendy plus size top from Alight.com (of Alight's choosing)

Mandatory Entry (First entry): Sign up for the Alight Newsletter. (You must include your email address if not in your profile or you will not be eligible to win.)

Optional Bonus Entries - Eligible after completing mandatory entry above: You can do any or all of the following for one entry each. Please leave a separate comment for each that you have done.

1. Follow my blog (publicly). Already a follower? Just leave a comment saying that you are a follower.

2. Subscribe to my free newsletter. +4

3. Follow Alight on Twitter.

4. Follow me on Twitter.

5.Visit Alight and comment with your favorite clothing item.

6. Add my button on your blog sidebar and leave a link to your blog. +5

7. Become my Facebook Fan. +3

8. Subscribe to Review Retreat via RSS.

9. Leave a message on Alight's Facebook Wall. +3

10. Stumble, Digg and/or add to Del.icio.us Bookmarks.(Include username/link) +2 each

11. Enter this Contest into a Mr. Linky ( include URL where giveaway was entered) + 8

12. FOR 10 EXTRA ENTRIES - Write a blog post about this giveaway, with a link to my blog. Come back and leave the link to your blog post. Post TEN separate comments that you've blogged about this.

13. Tweet the following (once daily) +1

Sexy Spring Style? Enter the trendy plus size top #giveaway from @Alightcom @Jennifer_Marek ( giveaway, contest ) http://tiny.cc/gno95

Details
Giveaway begins on April 23, 2010 and ends on May 23, 2010 at 11:59 cst. Winner will be chosen using Random.org. Winner must respond within 48 hours otherwise a new winner will be selected. Click here to view the complete giveaway rules/guidelines.

Disclaimer: I received a complimentary purse hanger in exchange for my honest review. The opinions & thoughts expressed are my own. I received no other compensation for my review nor was I under any obligation to give a positive review or host a giveaway.

Custom T Couture Review

Custom T Couture offers affordable and trendy customized 3D t-shirts for teens, men and women. They are constantly offering fashion designers innovative new ways to embellish their garments: Traditional Bonnaz Ribbon Embroidery, Laser Cutting, Caviar Beads, Glitters (Cracked Ice), Trims, Nail Heads, Stones, Pearls and much more. Clients include Calvin Klein, Jessica McClintock, Betsy Johnson, Anna Sui and many others.

Now, for the first time ever, their revolutionary patent-pending beading and rhinestone application technique and professional garment customizing software lets you quickly and easily create personalized tee shirts and accessories that will surpass even the finest manufactured garments.You have several options at Custom Tee Couture.You can shop ready to wear custom t-shirts or create your own custom t-shirt.

For my review, I chose the Barbed Heart T-Shirt (pictured above). For just $20.00, this is a steal! The Barbed Heart shirt features Swarovski AB rhinestones, round star, metallic 4mm and barrel, transparent flower, and wood finish teardrop beads. The detail is so exquisite! My shirt is so soft and comfortable!

Custom T Couture is the first website that I have found that gives the consumer 100% control of their t-shirt design. How cool is that?! Their website is super easy to navigate. The pre-designed t-shirts are very stylish and fashionable. However, if you wish to design a t-shirt, Custom T Couture offers user-friendly software to bring your imagination and ideas to life. I has so much fin using their designing feature, I must have spent hours coming up with new designs.

You can upload an image or logo to your design, create text or use designs from the iDesign Clip Art. Choose from religious symbols, seasonal images, gothic art, tattoo art, sports figures...the list goes on and on. The design is totally up to you! You can pick as few or as many designing items as you like: Text Beads, Transfers, Ribbon Embroidery, Beads, Trims, Nail Heads, Stones, Pearls, Swarovski rhinestones, and so much more! The possibilities are endless! Here is a glimpse of the iDesign software and my first t-shirt design:

Whether you are looking for one t-shirt or hundreds, Custom T Couture provides the versatility to design exactly what you are looking for!

Try Your Talents Out & Enter to Win a $75.00 Gift Certificate to Custom T Couture!

Where To Buy: Shop Custom T Couture Online

Cost: $20.00 (Barbed Heart T-Shirt)

Disclaimer: I received a complimentary t-shirt in exchange for my honest review. The opinions & thoughts expressed are my own. I received no other compensation for my review nor was I under any obligation to give a positive review.

Many thanks to Custom T Couture for providing the review sample and giveaway product!

Hairfreé Brushes - Review & Giveaway

The average person loses between 40 and 120 strands a day! I have very long and thick hair and I would guess at least half of those hair strands lost are tangled in my brush. Like many women, I struggle with built up hair in my brush. Cleaning my brush always feels like a tedious chore. I am able to remove large clumps of hair but there are always smaller strands intertwined with the brush bristles. To remove those, I normally grab a pair of tweezers and slowly begin to remove each strand of hair, one by one. I'm sure you know exactly where I am coming from and understand how frustrating and time consuming cleaning a brush can be. When it is all said and done, I am either beyond aggravated or on my way to the store to purchase a new brush.

Hairfreé has a an ingenious product - a brush that cleans itself! To remove hair from your Hairfreé brush, simply pull the handle. You will see the black plates that were previously flush to the body of the brush move outward all while lifting the hair from the brush. All that is left for you to do is grab the hair off the top of the brush and discard.

Hairfreé brushes are so versatile! No matter your ethnicity or the type of hair you have, be it fine, thick, curly or straight hair, Hairfreé brushes work well. They will flawlessly transform your hair from frizzy to silky without the dry, frazzled breakage caused by a flat iron. Hairfreé brushes are great for styling your hair. The brushes use ceramic technology for faster heating and drying times. Hair styles can benefit from the ceramic technology to become smoother and shinier while drying quickly. Hairfreé brushes are a great alternative to using a flat iron daily. The brush plates are ceramic coated so they retain the heat from your blow dryer.

Before Hairfreé

After Hairfreé

Hairfreé brushes worked great! Normally it takes me an hour or longer to achieve the above results. I couldn't believe my Hairfreé made my hair this straight! It was so convenient and easy to use as a styling tool and cleaning my brush was so simple. I know several women who prefer hard bristles, and would love Hairfreé. Personally, I prefer flexible bristles and found Hairfreé to be a little rough on my scalp. Overall, Hairfreé is a "must have" product for every woman. These brushes are such a time saver! The flat brush includes a mirrored back, making this perfect for on the go. I am ecstatic to have discovered Hairfreé!

Watch The Hairfreé Video To See How Easy Hairfreé Brushes Are To Clean.

Hairfree comes with a 100% money back guarantee!

Hairfreé is having a special! Get both brushes for only $18.95 (+$4.75 shipping/handling)

Win It! Click Here To Enter Our Giveaway!!

Where To Buy: Shop Hairfreé Online

Cost: Round Brush - $15.95/ Flat Brush - $9.95

Disclaimer: I received 2 complimentary Hairfree Brushes in exchange for my honest review. The opinions & thoughts expressed are my own. I received no other compensation for my review nor was I under any obligation to give a positive review.

Splurge Hair Salon & My New Look

It's been about 6 months since I have had a haircut. I am so excited to be visiting Splurge Salon for the first time tomorrow. I have an appointment with Lindsay. Take a look at how beautiful this salon is:

I found a picture of what (I think) I want my hair to look like.It's very long and thick and is naturally curly. I normally straighten it because I can't achieve an all over consistent curl. I think with all of the layers, I could rock this look straight or curly.

After a long thought and a very good laugh, I told myself I didn't want to look like a freaking weirdo, walking into the salon with a mannequin and wig. So.... I found a similar look, except the layers are blown inward instead of outward.



I'm a bit worried. I'm not sure what color my hair is, but its definitely not blond. And my face is much chunkier than these ladies (or lady, ha!). I'm going to take my photo in tomorrow and leave the final decision up to Lindsay. Be sure to check back for my update with before and after photos!!