The Tea Collection Semi-Annual Sale is On! (Plus a Promo Code to Save an Extra 25% off Sale Items)

The Tea Collection Semi-Annual Sale is already underway and, to make this highly anticipated sale even sweeter, there is a promo code you can use to take an additional 25% off all sale items for babies, boys, girls, and women!

I think my favorite find from this sale is the adorable Venda Shoulder-Tie Tunic (shown above).  It's priced at $12.50 for this sale, so it will be just $9.38 after using the promo code!  I like this top because, in addition to being super-cute, the straps are adjustable.  This means you can probably buy one size up so that this top can be worn for two (or possibly three) summers.  All our Tea Collection pieces have washed extremely well, so they there is no doubt that this top can be washed and worn with proper care for years without wearing out.

To get your extra 25% off all the sale items in your order, checkout using Promo Code 25SAVE at TeaCollection.com by 6/29.  As always, if you shop, come back and tell me what bought!

5 Must-Have Items for Summer 2013 from 'The Hot List'

Thank you to J.Jill for providing The Hot List graphic below and for sending me a gift card as a thank you for taking the time to participate in this campaign.  The image above was created by me on Polyvore.  All opinions expressed are my own.

Whether you're building a brand new summer wardrobe from scratch or would just like to round out your existing one, there are a few items that are a must.  This year we are seeing a lot of washable linen separates in tropical solids and prints.  My favorite of the bunch are coral, turquoise, and watermelon pink.

9 of the 10 item's on this summer's The Hot List from J.Jill are featured in the graphic below.  From their list of 10, I think the following 5 are absolutely essential . . .

1.  Comfortable Tanks - If you are to survive the heat and humidity where I live, comfortable tank tops are essential, no matter your size or shape.  Pick up some in neutral colors, such as black, linen, or white, and then a few more in your favorite tropical brights.

2.  Shorts in Neutral Colors - Several pairs of Bermuda or walking shorts in easy-to-match colors will make summer dressing that much easier.  They can be paired with a casual tank top or a dressier peasant top.

3.  Lightweight Cardigans or Sweaters - One or two summer-weight cardigans would be perfect to throw on during the milder summer nights or when you find yourself in an air-conditioned restaurant or theater.  Choose one that would work with denim capris, linen shorts, or your favorite summer dress.

4.  Basic Summer Dress - Owning at least one basic summer dress will likely get you through most non-formal occasions during the summer months.  I prefer tank dresses because they are cool, comfortable, and can be dressed up or down with the right accessories, such as wrap and strappy heeled sandals.

5.  Easy Slip-on Shoes - Just as I like to slip on my laceless fur-lined boots in the winter, during the summer I want something that looks great, is versatile, and easy to slip on and off.  A simple pair of slip-on sandals is what I would recommend because they would go with most casual outfits from shorts to dresses to capris.

6.  Medium-Sized Summer Tote - (I know I only said 5, but this one is important!)  Now that you do not need to carry all your extra winter gear, you can downsize to a medium sized tote that is  just large enough for your essentials, plus a magazine or a tablet.  If you like to wear neutral tones for clothing, then try choosing a bright tropical tote for a pop of color.  If your outfits are usually bright and colorful, then choose something neutral, like linen, black, or one of your favorite metallics.


Have I left anything out?  Tell me which summer wardrobe pieces you just cannot live without.  Be sure to visit JJill.com for more wardrobe inspiring ideas.

The Festival Look . . . a Fun and Flattering Summer Fashion Trend

Video provided by Kohl's. No compensation was received for sharing this video with my readers.

As summertime approaches, some women cannot wait to put on their swimsuits and strappy sundresses, while others shudder at the thought of facing the challenge of finding stylish and figure-flattering pieces for their summertime wardrobe.  Sofia Wacksman, Vice President of Trend for Kohl's, has identified the "festival look" as a popular trend for both juniors and women this year.

Personally, I am delighted to know the festival look has returned.  I find peasant tops to be fun, feminine, and flattering.  They offer a relaxed look, while not being overly casual, even with a pair of distressed cut-off shorts.  Peasant tops are also easy to pair with other styles of shorts, as well as with skinny jeans, capri pants, and several styles of skirts.  While browsing the women's section online at Kohls.com, I found trendy tops I liked in both prints, solids, and mixed media in festive colors, such as corals and Caribbean blues.

Will you be embracing the festival look this summer?

Tea Collection's Playground-Friendly Summer Collection for Girls

Although in many parts of the country, school will be ending in a few weeks, here in Massachusetts, our children will be in school well-into June.  It is only April and we have already experienced some unseasonably warm weather.  After our last heat wave, I realized that I should have purchased more playground-friendly and school-appropriate warm weather clothes for my daughter.  When Tea Collection had their last big sale, I ordered several outfits for her to wear this coming fall, but now I need more summery clothes that still look nice enough for school.

Whether you are in the same situation as I am, needing warm weather clothing that will work for both school and summer vacation, or you are planning a family getaway, the many 5-piece sets offered by Tea Collection are a great place to start.  Not only are they stylish and comfortable, but they are well-coordinated and often comes with pieces that can be mixed and matched.  Rompers, shorts, capri pants, and knee-length dresses are the perfect thing, whether in school, on the playground, or on vacation, for an active preschooler like our daughter.


Tea Collection Dharma 5-Piece Set


Tea Collection Bali Love 5-Piece Set


Tea Collection Moon Orchid 5-Piece Set

Out of the four 5-piece sets shown here, I think my daughter would love the "Dharma" the most.  How could she resist the mermaid and a hoodie combination?

Remember to checkout the Tea Collection new arrivals for boys too.  Sometimes I have so much fun shopping for my daughter, I almost forget I have two fashion conscious sons.

Giveaway: Stun 2012 Spring/Summer Collection at Small Concept ($50 GC) [CLOSED]

Easter Sunday was a little bit on the chilly side this year.  In fact, it even snowed for about 30 seconds.  Still, my daughter could not let that stop her from wearing her oh-so-pretty new Stun Purple Rose Flutter Dress from the Small Concept children's boutique.  She was so delighted by the dress that she did not even notice the chill in the air.  The girly, but bold print of the fabric designed by Stun fit her personality perfectly.  Little does she know that her father informed me yesterday that she should never be allowed to wear a dress ever again because she looks too pretty in them and that would make his job of keeping all the boys away that much more difficult.

Our 5 year old daughter usually takes a size 5/6 and this size 6 dress by Stun was a perfect fit.  Both the waste and the hem hit right where they should.  Due to the knee-length and the cut of this lined dress, we did not have a problem with her skirt blowing up even though the wind was pretty strong that day.  Our daughter has decided that this dress is ideal for curtsying and twirling.

(Click any photo to enlarge)

As a parent, I love this cotton dress because it is lined, 100% cotton, and is machine washable (hang to dry).  Even though we did not have a problem with the wind catching the skirt of the dress, our daughter is quite active, as most 5 year old children are.  Just to be on the safe side, Small Concept suggested a pair of Monkeybar Buddies Shorts for her to wear under the dress . . . 

. . . and am I ever glad they did.  Although our daughter did not go to the playground that day, she was a little overzealous with her curtsying at times.  Thank goodness she wore the Monkeybar Buddies, which turned out to be so comfortable that she forgot she was wearing them.  These shorts are made of nylon/spandex, can be both machine washed and dried, and are available in several color choices.

The Purple Rose Flutter Dress retails for $68.  The same print is also available in a tunic and legging set.  Small Concept carries many of my favorite children's apparel brands for girls and boys, such as Tea Collection and Appaman.  I am so happy to have discovered Stun apparel on SmallConcept.com.  The brand offers such charming, but comfortably designed clothing for girls.  Here are a few more styles from the Stun Spring/Summer Collection for 2012 . . . 

Remember that Small Concept offers flat rate shipping within the U.S. for $5.95 on orders under $150 and Free Shipping for U.S. orders over $150.

Thank you to Small Concept for providing a complimentary product sample for us to base this review upon and for providing a gift code for our contest prize.

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Good luck in the drawing!

Shabby Apple "Sacred Falls" Cotton Poplin Women's Spring Dress

Five years ago, my body changed from a slim average build to more of a pear shape.  It was all worth it because we have a wonderful set of boy-girl twins to show for it, but once in awhile, I very much miss my pre-twin body.  Shopping for clothing is definitely one of those times.  Being small-chested and having a belly, it is difficult to find flattering clothing that does not prompt strangers to pose the question, "When are you due?"

The selection of women's dresses offered on ShabbyApple.com include dresses for pear-shaped women.  The Sacred Falls dress seemed like the perfect one to hide my figure flaws.  I actually own another Shabby Apple dress, which ended up being slightly too large for me.  I knew the dress was generously cut, but I was worried that the silhouette of my midsection would still show, so I ordered an XXL.  This time I ordered an XL.  This dress turned out to be a bit large on me also.  Next time, I will go down another size and see what happens.  I'll get it right eventually!

Like with all Shabby Apple dresses, this dress is beautifully tailored.  Although it is done in a cotton poplin, the fabric has an elegant sheen, making it possible to dress it up or down with the proper choice of jewelry and footwear. You could easily wear this dress to a Spring or summer wedding.  The color is just stunning and would compliment most hair colors and complexions.

Since I am only 5'5", the dress is more of a calf length on me, rather than a knee-length as shown on the model.  I am fine with the length, but would need to pair this dress with a higher heel than I normally wear.  The one thing I would change about this dress is to make the zipper hidden on the back.  The exposed zipper makes the dress more casual, whereas a hidden zipper would give the dress even more versatility.

Looking for a Shabby Apple discount?  Through February 5th, 2012 you can save 10% off your entire purchase when you checkout using Code:  3garnets10off.  You can also "Like" Shabby Apple on Facebook to have access to future special promotions and discounts.


Thank you to Shabby Apple for providing a complimentary product sample for us to base this review upon.

Review: Plus Size Embroidered Floral Top by Fashion to Figure

Since having twins, I have been looking more and more at plus size fashions. I know I am a size 10 on the bottom if I buy low-rise and an x-large on top, but sometimes I like the extra room to camouflage my mid-section.

Many times, I look for certain cuts in clothing. For t-shirts I look for hip-length and boxy. For tops I always seek out peasant blouses, shirred bodices, and babydoll shirts like this Embroidered Floral Top from Fashion to Figure. This woven top is 100% cotton, so it is slightly dressier than a cotton knit. I love that the floral print is small, as I am not a big fan of large prints.

The smocked babydoll style really allows for a full roomy fit around the middle. The detail of the embroidery in addition to the delicate print makes this top very pretty.

As you can see, the base color is more of a stone color rather than the warmer golden khaki color shown on the stock photo.

Since this top is a tunic length, I had to wear it with leggings. I would have loved for it to be about six inches shorter so I could pair it with jeans, denim shorts, or bootcut pants without it looking like a maternity top.

I did have to use double-sided garment tape to keep the elasticized cap sleeves from falling off my shoulders. When I pulled the shirt down enough so that the shoulders did not slide off, then the neckline was far too low and would reveal my strapless bra. Otherwise the size 1X was a perfect fit for me.

This Embroidered Floral Top from Fashion to Figure is available in the burgundy as pictured or with blue flowers and blue embroidery. It is recommended to be hand washed only. For a limited time, it is on sale for just $14.99 (regularly $25) on FashionToFigure.com . Through July 5th, you can receive 20% off your online order when you checkout with Code: FTF20OFF. Fashion to Figure store locations can currently be found in New York and New Jersey. Hopefully they will make their way to Massachusetts soon. You can also look for Fashion to Figure on Facebook and on Twitter.

Thank you to Fashion to Figure for sending us a sample clothing item free of charge to base this review upon.

Giveaway: Dress Barn Straw Tote Promotion (2 Winners) [CLOSED]

Recently, I was invited to shop at my local DressBarn. Since it is located where I normally do not need to go to run errands, I have never visited before. I had no expectations about what I would find . . . well, aside from dresses. However, I was hoping to find one or two things I could wear during the BlogHer convention this year.

I was very pleasantly surprised when I walked into the store. All the women's fashions, both casual and dressy, had an elegance to them. Many of the pieces had embellishments on them, which really is not my style, but there were more than enough things that did suit my taste. I saw a lot of basic must-haves for the summer months, such as lightweight tees, bermuda-length shorts and capris, but I do think DressBarn is the place to go if you need to dress nicely for work or an evening out. I found a beautiful top that I cannot wait to show off at one of the BlogHer events in August. Oh, and did I mention they have shoes and purses too?

For a limited time, DressBarn is giving away one of these brightly colored roomy straw totes with each purchase of $100 or more . . .

This DressBarn Summer Tote promotion continues while supplies last. To help you out with your summer wardrobe, here is a printable coupon for 20% off one regularly priced item from DressBarn. Hurry! It expires 6/30/10.

(To print, click on image to enlarge. Then right-click and select print.)

To keep up to date on more promotions like these, sign up for the DressBarn mailing list, visit DressBarn on Facebook, and follow DressBarn on Twitter.

Thank you to DressBarn for sending me a sample tote free of charge and a gift card as a thank you for sharing this information with my readers and also for providing an additional two totes for our contest prizes.

What you can win:
Two lucky readers will each receive a Straw Summer Tote in their choice of color (green, blue, pink, or yellow). Subject to availability.

Limitations:

This giveaway is open to U.S. entries only. You do not need to be a blogger to enter, but you must have a valid email address and be age 18 years or older. If you enter anonymously and do not include a valid email address in your comment entries, I will not be able to notify you should you win this random drawing.

How to Gain Entries:

Leave a comment telling me where you will be toting your tote this summer, if you win this contest. You MUST do this to be eligible to win this contest.

Extra Entries:

1) For 5 extra entries, leave a relevant comment on one of my non-giveaway posts. Then leave FIVE separate comments with the name of the post on which you commented. You will earn 5 extra entries for each different non-contest post you comment on.

2)

For 5 extra entries, enter one of my other contests. Leave FIVE separate comments here telling me which contest you entered. You will earn 5 extra entries for each contest you enter.

3) For 10 extra entries, blog about this contest linking back to this post AND DressBarn.com . Then come back here and leave TEN separate comments with the link to your blog post.

4)

For 1 extra entry each, if you are a Friend of mine on Facebook and/or if you have "liked" the 3 Garnets & 2 Sapphires Facebook page, then leave a separate comment here telling me so with the link to your Facebook profile.

5) For 1 extra entry, follow DressBarn on Twitter. Then leave a separate comment with the link to your Twitter profile.

6)

Follow me on Twitter. Then leave a separate comment with the link to your Twitter profile.

7)

Tweet about this giveaway linking back to this post. Then come back here and leave the link to your tweet in a separate comment. You may do this once per day until the end of the contest.

8)

Subscribe to this blog's feed. Or you can follow me through Blogger or subscribe via email (widget is on sidebar). Then leave a separate comment telling me you did so.

9)

Subscribe to A Blog of Goodies' feed (the sister site to 3 Garnets & 2 Sapphires). Then leave a separate comment telling me you did so.

10)

Add my button or blog link to your blog's sidebar. Then leave a separate comment with the link to your blog.

<br /> <a href="http://www.3garnets2sapphires.com/"><img border="0" src="http://i221.photobucket.com/albums/dd206/Busymonkeez/Graphics4Me/NEWBlogButton125x125.jpg" /></a><br /><br />

(All entries will be verified prior to awarding this prize.)


Random Drawing:

This contest will be closed on Monday, July 12th, 2010 at 11:59pm EST. A random number drawing will be held shortly after. The winner will be announced here and will be contact via email or through their blog. If the winner does not respond within 48 hours, a new number will be drawn.

Good luck in the drawing!

Review: Tummy Control Swim Separates from Lands' End

I have not worn a swimsuit since my first trimester of being pregnant with the twins . . . the twins who are now almost 3-1/2yrs old. Even though I am a size 9/10, my belly area has basically been stretched beyond repair and I still look like I am at least four months pregnant from the front. When I was offered a chance to try some pieces from this year's Lands' End swimwear 2010 collection, I made a beeline for the tummy control swimsuits.

I have a special affinity for dark browns, so I selected this Tummy Control Tankini Top and the coordinating Tummy Control SwimMini. I figured that a swim skirt was the best way to go. Did I mention the stretch marks on my hips?

Tummy Control Gold Accent Tankini Top & Tummy Control Separates Solid SwimMini

When I first handled the swim skirt in person, it was very apparent that it was going to offer quite a bit of control. It did not have a separate panel in the front, but rather the entire built-in panty beneath the skirt had a control lining. When I felt the tankini, however, I was worried because I expected to feel the same lining around the torso. I was pleasantly surprised when I tried the tankini on for myself. I could feel the control of the fabric and it was definitely slenderizing. I still think for my body issues, I could have used a lining in the top similar to what is in the bottom.

Some of the details I really liked about the top was the metallic accents on the straps, which are meant to draw the eye up away from the mid-section. I only wish there was a second choice of a top with silvertone hardware instead of the gold. I wear all silver, white gold, and platinum jewelry, so a second choice would have been ideal for me.

The other thing I really liked was the seamed bust area which included sewn-in soft cups. The seams slightly resembled boning, but without the discomfort. I thought that the shirred detailing was very flattering, especially for small busted women like me.

Other than the color of the hardware, the only other improvement I would like to suggest is that the top might benefit from a little shirring on the sides. The reason I suggest this is because you can see the waistband of the skirt through the top, so there is an awkward line showing. I think shirred sides may help to camouflage this line. You would unlikely walk around town with obvious pantylines showing, so you would probably not want a line showing across your mid-section while at the beach or poolside.

Visit LandsEnd.com to view the full selection of swimwear for women, men, and children. You may also find some of the 2010 swim collection at your local Sears store. You can sign up for the Lands' End email newsletter or visit Lands' End on Facebook to stay up-to-date on the many great promotions offered throughout the year.

Thank you to Lands' End for sending us a sample swimsuit free of charge to base this review upon.