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Pearly Pink Delight

02.18.13

Have you ever heard the phrase, “delicate like a flower,” well, this is exactly how this sweet dress from Taylor and Stylist makes me feel. I’ve always been into rather delicate blouse, ones that  I usually pair with a favorite cardigan or other layers to balance the softness of it out. However, with this dress, it just didn’t feel right covering it up – it’s one of those pieces that just makes a statement on its own. Paired with my favorite tights, and ballet flats (a gift from Scott for our sixth anniversary), I felt oh so ladylike, and maybe a tiny bit like a ballerina (but in the best way) walking around downtown in a warmer than usual February day.

At the beginning of the month I also wore this charming number to the Puppy Love Project benefit that I co-hosted with my team from the Phoenix Style Collective. Since it was a much chiller night, I paired it with cream colored, knit tights, a tan cardigan, and oxfords. This outfit definitely spoke more to my layer loving self, but I’m learning that it’s nice to change things up every now and again, and even sometimes get real simple (which will be too easy once the spring/summer heat comes rolling my way).

Outfit details:
Pearly Pink Delight dress: c/o Taylor and Stylist
Tights: c/o we Love Colors
Flats: Tory Burch

This morning I’m thinking I need an extra large iced coffee (after I finish the one I’m currently drinking – oops), and also maybe a roam around Target or Ulta just to get out before class tonight. Yesterday I spent the whole day visiting grandma, working on a take-home exam, and starting my spring cleaning, so today I think it’s time to get out in the sunshine!

How was your weekend? What are you really excited for this week?
-Chelsea xo

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Week 7 Wrap-Up

02.17.13

This past week/weekend was spent obsessing over my Comps Exams, visiting grandma, celebrating Valentine’s Day with my Valentine of seven years, welcoming the newest addition into our family (little Miss Piper), and not drinking enough coffee (resulting in two very sleepy Scott and Chelsea). 
1. My friend Sarah inspired me to pull out my Daphne moisturizing lipstick from Radiant Cosmetics -such a fun, springy color! // 2. Had a bonfire on a slightly chilly evening with a few sweet friends. // 3. Scott gave me the most beautiful flowers and vase for Valentine’s Day. // 4. I also busted out Too Faced’s lip cream in Stiletto Red this weekend! One of my favorite reds!
3 Weekly Favorites:
1. Piper, the newest addition to our family! She is a Cavalier King Charles Spaniel (same as Scout), but is tri-colored and definitely sassy! 
2. Federal Pizza! Scott and I went there for V-Day dinner and it was delicious! 
3. Hummingbird by Local Natives – this is the only album that has been playing in my car for weeks now!
2  Hopes for the New Week:
1. That I get SO much school work done this coming week!
2. That it’s sandal weather! 
1 Last Thought:
What happened to week 6 wrap-up? Ooops! Totally dropped the ball, friends! Are you enjoying these wrap-ups? 
How was your weekend? What are you most looking forward to this week? What’s your favorite snack?
-Chelsea xo
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Mint Julep

02.16.13

Wow, it has been way too long since I last posted some outfit photos! Things have just been so busy, busy on the blog (like with an amazing giveaway), and in my everyday life (school, visiting grandma, checking out an amazing diner in downtown, and having a bonfire with friends). This week has also had some ups and downs, but I feel content, and at peace now sitting here writing to you all now. I’ve always thought of blogging as a type of therapy, and I’m so thankful to everyone that takes the time out of their busy day to read my random thoughts and comment to let me know that you agree, or feel the same way too. What would I do without you, friends?

On another note, my spring wardrobe is starting to come together nicely. I’ve always been a big fan of transitional pieces, but I’ve come to realize that it’s nice to have a few garments that really set you in the mood for the season. This pretty Mint Julep belted top from Ever + Mi Crush that I’m wearing is definitely one of those springy pieces for me. I love the mixture of the mint and salmon colors, the sweet braided belt, the capped sleeves (perfect for how warm it is today – almost 80!), and the flowy peplum! I have a feeling I’m going to be getting a lot of wear out of this pretty blouse all spring long!

Cardigan: Banana Republic
Mint Julep belted top: c/o Ever + Mi Crush
Necklace: Origami Owl
June bracelet: c/o Stowe Street
Jeans: Levi’s
Brogues: Steve Madden

Last night Scott and I were invited to bonfire with a few friends in an amazing desert community space that two of our friends share with their neighbors. It was chilly out, but the fire kept us all warm (and entertained – it kept spitting ashes). Now that winter is on its way out the door, it was nice to celebrate the chilly weather was such sweet friends and relish in it while we still can (hello 80, 90, 100 degree days we having coming for us). There was even a friends trains that went zooming by right behind us as we sat on wooden benches and mixed matched chairs, who making quite a ruckus as they went, but somehow they made the evening that much more magical. For awhile there I didn’t even feel like I was in the city, but somewhere way out in the dessert, taking in winter’s charm.

How has your weekend been so far? What wardrobe pieces are you looking to bring into your spring closet?
-Chelsea xo

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CLOSED: Giveaway: Win a Nokia Lumia 920 Windows Phone

02.15.13

Remember that amazing giveaway I’ve been hinting about on Twitter and in my Windows Phone post? Well, it’s time! I’ve partnered with Windows Phone to give one lucky Tea Talk reader their very own Nokia Lumia 920 Windows Phone. Ready to enter? Check out all the details below:
To Enter:
1. You must be a Tea Talk follower via GFC, RSS, Bloglovin, or email (will be checking).
2. Leave a comment on this post letting me if you had to lose one item for a day, would it be your phone or your wallet? Please also leave your email address in the same comment!
For additional bonus entries:
1. Like Windows Phone on Facebook, and leave an additional comment letting me know that you did so.
2. Follow Windows Phone on Twitter, and also leave an additional comment letting me know that you did so.
So you’ve got three chances to win! This giveaway will be open until Friday, February 22nd at 11:59 p.m. MST, and is only open to US residents. Please also note the availability in service provider with this phone. Windows Phone is happy to offer a Nokia Lumia 920 if the winner has AT&T, and a Windows Phone 8x by HTC if they have Verizon or T-Mobile.
Good luck, sweet readers! XO

EDIT: Congrats, Sally Ann!

Thank you so much to everyone who entered! xo

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Happy Valentine’s Day!

02.14.13

From me and mine, to you and yours, we wish you a very lovely day.

We’re off to have dinner downtown at a new to us restaurant , and then maybe down to Churn, a speciality ice cream & pastry shop, for a delicious cookie or two!

What are your plans for this sweet evening, friends? Treat yourself and know that you are loved!
-Chelsea xo

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Getting to know my Windows Phone

02.13.13

Remember that amazing meeting I tweeted/blogged about a few weeks ago? Well, I had the pleasure of meeting with two very sweet Seattleites who were in town on behalf of their client, Microsoft (Did I really just say that? Yes, yes I did!). About a week prior to our meeting I received a very exciting email with  an amazing opportunity that I just couldn’t pass up – a meeting to learn about, and experience the new Windows Phone. I immediately replied with a big old “I would LOVE to,” and set up a coffee shop meeting for the following week.

Knowing that I was only asked for fifteen minutes of my time, I wasn’t quite sure what to expected during our the meeting. However, once we sat down, coffees in hand (SO happy I asked to meet at my favorite coffee shop, Lola Coffee, as I think they were quite impressed), our conversations came easy and we spent a good hour+ talking about the new Windows phone (operating system, apps, photo quality, and my favorite quality – the fashionability aspect of the phone). Being that I’ve been an iPhone girl for a few years now, I found it very refreshing to learn about a new operating system/phone, and thought it was extra, extra cool that I got to learn about it from someone who has already spent so much time learning about it themselves.

During our meeting I got to check out the Windows phone 8x by HTC, as well as the Nokia Lumia 920. Both phones use the same Windows 8 operating system, but each has its own style and special qualities. Among both phones, I was way impressed with their SkyDrive system (online access to files, photos, etc., + free 7gb of space included), as well as the camera quality, crystal clear screens, and also the fun colors that the phones come in. Throughout our conversation we also talked about how fashion influences our technology, and vice versa – something that has definitely crossed my mind a few times. Since our meeting this has something I’ve been thinking about quite a bit lately, and I’m curious to know what  are your thoughts on this?

(an accidental photo that my pal Josh took while checking out the phone).

Anyways, before we parted ways I was very graciously give my very own Windows Phone 8x by HTC to  play around with and enjoy. I had a few different color options to go with, but I felt that the blue matched most well with my personality and style (and the blue tweed jacket I was wearing that day!). Over the past few weeks I’ve really enjoyed customizing it and making it my own, all the while majorly loving the camera, and also the live tiles (which gives me updates on my friends + social media sites). I’ve really had a great experience with the phone so far, and plan on blogging about some of my favorite features in the near future. Also, keep your eyes peeled for a VERY exciting giveaway coming soon (hint, hint: you’re not going to want to miss this one).

Do any of you have a Windows Phone? 8x by HTC or Nokia Lumia 920? If so, I would love to hear about your experience with it? If you don’t, tell me if you would be interested in checking one out!
-Chelsea xo

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Mix N Match

02.12.13

Want to know a semi-secret? I’m pretty terrible at incorporating patterns into my wardrobe. Yes, it’s true. More often than not will I choose an article of clothing in a solid color (or stripes, maybe) and call it good. Since I started styling blogging two and a half or so years ago,  I’ve definitely seen my style grow and evolve into something I had always hoped it would be (classic, yet unique at the same time), and patterns have definitely played a big part in helping me to do this.  To me, personal style is all about finding a balance between your true style, and any other styles and trends you’re into at the time and want to play around with, which leads usually leaves you with a solid foundation and an ever growing, ever evolving taste for a slight change. Style really is a fickle matter, but one that I’ve grown to love even more these past few years. I’m curious to know, what are your thoughts on personal style?

Outfit details:
Cardigan: Madewell
Scarf: Dillards
Dress c/o Marshalls
Bracelets: Kate Spade & Stowe Street
Leggings: Nordstroms Rack
Kipper Booties: c/o Blowfish Shoes

Life has been so, so busy lately, but I’m trying to take a breather moment and just remember to take things one at a time. On another note, the buzz of a new baby puppy added to our family on Sunday (see her sweet little face here!) has been keeping things lively, and quite interesting around here. She’s a real doll though and I can’t wait to share more about her with you all very soon!

What are you up to today? How do you manage stressful/busy days?
-Chelsea xo

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Kendra Scott Color Bar

02.11.13

Last week I was invited to the newly opened Kendra Scott store at the Scottsdale Quarter shopping plaza. I’ve been hearing a lot of buzz around this store and Kendra Scott lately, so I was excited to have the opportunity to check out the brand and store for myself.

The shop itself is white, bright and filled with pops of colorful. I love that they encourage customers to try things on, and open up all the drawers to check out their pieces (and they have SO many options)!

The Tropic Chic Collection is their new spring line and is filled with lovely greens, bright blues, and pretty peaches and corals. The whole line is really lovely, and I’m definitely think I need a piece or two from the collection for my spring/summer wardrobe.

While at the shop I learned that these Danielle earrings are one of their bestsellers. Later on that day I was telling my mom about them (and may have mentioned that a few celebs have been spotted wearing them) and she told me she would like a pair of her own (would be a fun Mother’s Day or birthday gift!).

These pretty Rayne necklaces also caught my eye. I’m in love with the tassels!

After I poked around for a little a bit I was introduced to the Kendra Scott Color Bar, where I could customized a jewelry piece of my choice (from a select collection) and customized it to my liking, i.e. whether I wanted the piece to be gold, silver, and what colors/types of semi-precious stones I wanted set in my bracelet. I also love that you have the option to see how your piece is going to look beforehand, and even after one of the Kendra Scott setters have put your piece together they still are totally ok with you switching things up – so sweet!

Taking a peek at all of the semi-precious stones was one of my favorite parts of visiting the store. I was in amazement at how many different shapes, sizes, and stones they have in stock. SO many possibilities to customize your own piece.

I choose the Jana bracelet to customize, a tear drop style bracelet that could either be done in silver or gold, and then had lots of room for different colored stones.

I really had a good time looking at each stone option and trying to find the perfect mix for my bracelet. I may have gotten a little caught up in talking with our host, only to turn around a few minutes to find that Scott had picked out the perfect mixture of stones, and something that was just my style! Thanks, love!

After my decision had been made on the bracelet and stones, I enjoyed watching my piece come to life by one one of Kendra Scott setters (who actually have to take to go to a special school to learn how to set the stones properly – so cool!).

Ta-da! I absolutely love how my Jana bracelet turned out, and had such a fun time designing and seeing it come to life. Thank you so much Kendra Scott and the Scottsdale Quarter team for having me! I will certainly be back!

Have you heard of Kendra Scott? Have you checked out one of her shops? What’s your favorite piece from her line?

-Chelsea xo

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Featured In Glamour Magazine

02.08.13

I am SO excited to announce that I am featured in the March issue of Glamour Magazine! I’ve had the issue in my hand for a few days now, but I’m still in a bit of a state of awe over the whole thing. I’ve known for a few months that the feature was coming, but holding the issue in my hand just makes everything that much more real and exciting!

Back in October my sweet friend, Courtney, asked me if I wanted to go with her to have my picture taken by a freelance photographer for Glamour that was in town – there on business for the magazine to take photos of girls wearing printed skirts for an upcoming issue. Of course I said yes, donned my favorite printed skirt (which is from LuLu*s and has since sold out!), and headed down to Tempe to meet Courtney and the photographer + his crew in front of a local Starbucks.

When it came to be my turn to have my photo taken, I was so nervous. Yes, I have photos taken of me often, and yes, I should probably be used to it now, but I was still SO nervous as the professional photographer snapped away. In total,  he must of have taken 50 shots as we walked back and forth through the street and onto the sidewalk on the other side of the road. The photo that they ended up choosing was one of the first ones that he took. Want to know how I remember? See my hair tie on my right hand? Well, only after a few shots in he told me to hand the hair tie to him because having hair ties on wrist in fashion photos was a fashion no, no – oops! Guess they didn’t mind that much though!

After we were done with the photos, Courtney and I both went our separate ways for the morning and I continued to cross my fingers and just hope that they would use my photo in the magazine! Much to my amazement, a little over a month later I received a very cool email from a gal from Glamour Magazine saying they wanted to feature me and interview me about how I would describe my body shape, and what I love about it! After sending a few emails back and forth, I got an amazing call from NY, NY from Glamour Magazine while I was in a meeting with a few fellow grad students. So I slyly stepped out and gave the interview right there in front of my classroom – nervous, excited, and jittery all at once!

The interview itself was very cool and I found myself describing my body and exactly how I felt about it to a T. I’ve always seen myself as having an hourglass body shape, but was surprised to hear that although the writer of the feature could see it, her and her colleagues saw me as having a bit of a different shape (what do you think?). Needless to say, they went with how I feel about my body shape for the feature and I couldn’t be more happy about it!

I truly feel so honored to be featured in such an amazing magazine, and will certainly cherish my copy for a long time to come. If you’re near a magazine stand this weekend, be sure to check me in the March issue of Glamour Magazine on pages 156 and 158!

-Chelsea xo

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CC Clementine Giveaway: CLOSED

02.06.13

Today we have a lovely giveaway from CC Clementine, a locally based custom jewelry line. They are offering one lucky Tea Talk reader one of their gorgeous Beau Necklaces (one pendant included). The Beau Necklace is customizable, and up to four numbers and/or letters can be stamped onto the bronze and genuine leather disc, with the winner being able to choose what they would like stamped onto their pendant. The necklace will also be sent to the winner in a special Valentines gift tin! 


To enter you must:
1. Be a Tea Talk follower via GFC, RSS, Bloglovin, or email.
2. Like the CC Clementine Facebook page, and leave a comment on this post letting me know that you did so, along with your email address.
This giveaway will be open until Tuesday, February 12 at 8 a.m. MST, and is only open to US residents.
Good luck!
EDIT: Congratulations #5, Angela Knox! Please email me at Chelsea@Chelsea-Bird.com to claim your prize! 
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