Travel Archives - Page 3 of 3

The Ultimate Summer Bucket List

With Summer arriving this week, I thought it would be fun to share my Summer Bucket List with you. It seems Summer comes and goes in a blink of an eye! It is one of my favorite seasons here in Utah, it is also my favorite time to be out enjoying our state, plus our town is just beautiful this time of the year. Here is my Summer bucket list… I hope some of them make your list too:)

Summer Wildflowers: Free People Dress similar {HERE} Purse similar {HERE}

Summer brings the prettiest wildflowers, which make for some very scenic drives along with all our beautiful lakes and mountains… So making my list is a Scenic Drive to Mirror Lake, Bear Lake, Little Cottonwood Canyon, and Sundance. Also, I love a weekend drive in my hubby’s convertible to take in the sights and get some fresh air.

Skyline Trail Hike here in our town of Eden (Ogden Valley).

If you’ve been following me, you know I belong to a woman’s hiking group, and we still have quite a lot of Utah hikes we haven’t done. Here are FOUR Hikes that made my list to do this Summer: Wind Cave, {HERE} Donut Falls,{HERE} Fifth Water Hot Springs {HERE}and Secret Lake. {HERE}

Serving Watermelon Pool side. Hat {HERE} Sunglasses dupes {HERE} Suit {HERE} Earrings {HERE}

Watermelon and Fruits of Summer is a pure pleasure, and everyone loves good food and food Events. Hitting the Salt Lake City and Park City Farmers Market is on my list. Here in Utah, several towns host a (Fruit Day) North Ogden has Cherry Days {info HERE}, Brigham City has Peach Days, Bear Lake has Raspberry Days, Melon Day is in Green River {More info on all 3 HERE} and Strawberry Days in Pleasant grove. {HERE}

Another great drive and has Fab Summer fruit is Utah’s Famous Fruit highway! {Here} This is always a must-do!

Pool time at several Las Vegas pools kicked off my Summer! Moorea Beach club & Delano Beach Club @Mandalay Bay,

Pool time is a great Summertime pleasure, and isn’t Summer without laying poolside or playing at a waterpark, am I right? So here are a few pool days that made my list: Grand America pool day, I’ve heard the cocktails are amazing, and the food poolside is just as impressive as the hotel. {HERE} Cowabunga Bay Water Park {HERE} We haven’t been to a water park in years, and it always brought joy to my boys. So I thought it would be fun to re-experience those playful childhood days with our boys… even though they’re young adults, it’s always fun to be a kid!

Summer Trend Scarves and Shades! Top {HERE} Sunnies similar {HERE} Scarf {HERE}

Random things to do that make Summer fun that made my List, Bowling; it’s always fun to have something to do on a hot Summer day! A Drive-in Movie (Every year, I say I want to go, and we never make it!) It’s going to happen this year… and I am not going to fall asleep! The last time I went to the drive-in was with my Childhood friend Selena… We were in college, and we BOTH fell asleep! We woke up to a dark empty parking lot at 1 am! LOL!! Miniature golf because, seriously, who doesn’t love a good game of Miniature golf?

It brings back memories of young Summer night dates! Summer Outdoor concerts we have tickets to Heart so far… but I know we’ll add more:) as the Summer plays out, and it’s one of my favorite ways to enjoy an evening. Warm nights, listening to music, enjoying friends and a good beer! Some great outdoor concert venues {HERE} {HERE} {HERE} {HERE} Some are even FREE!

The Rodeo one of my favorite days of the year. We love to attend the Tough Enough To Wear Pink night for breast cancer survivors! It’s a fun tradition we share with family and friends! It wouldn’t be Summer without attending this event! I cry every time they sing the national anthem with the fly-over. {HERE} This rodeo is ranked as one of the top five large outdoor rodeos in the PRCA.

A weekend in Deer Valley is beautiful in the Summer. It has stunning hikes, beautiful pools, great restaurants, cooler air, and great shopping, perfect for a weekend getaway!

A day at LAGOON {HERE} Utah’s amusement park nothing says Summer like an amusement park, and we haven’t been as a family in years, so this year it’s on the list!

Purchasing the Get Out Pass if you live in Utah, Colorado, Washington, and Idaho is so worth it for $149.99 with over $3,000 worth of yearly admissions per pass. Save $35 with code Darcy35. My family will be enjoying several activities this Summer and Fall, including Cowabunga Bay & Lagoon!

Bruschetta & Toast Recipe on Next week’s blog post!

Summer Food: If you haven’t figured it out by now… My family is foodies! Summer means fresh fruits, fresh vegetables, BBQs, Summer cocktails, late-night S’Mores by the fire, picnics on the boat, and many Summer get-togethers! My bucket list is to share more family recipes with you here on the blog. I’ve been sharing on my instastories, and it has been very popular and very requested. I’ll start with my fresh Bruschetta made with Summers beautiful ripe tomatoes NEXT week…So stay tuned!

Summer also means long days and a little more free time, allowing us to explore new restaurants, read books and enjoy all the beautiful fresh bouquets from our yards. I look forward to this time of the year and soak in all the beauty Summer brings!

Summer Sunsets are the best on the lake! Paddle Boarding and boating are two places you’ll find me every Summer!

My Last Summer bucket list is to be able to make it to the BEACH! I need my toes in the Sand and the smell of salty air. It’s my inner peace, and it’s calling my name! I hope your Summer brings you so much joy, and you check off everything on your BUCKET LIST!

OX, D’Arcy

There’s nothing like the smell of the ocean and sand in your toes! California Lifeguard tower!

8 tips for Packing light for a weekend Getaway

8 tips for Packing Light for a Weekend Getaway!

Packed and ready to go! Insta Style Book {Here} Heart Sunnies {Here}

Baggallini rolling tote and backpack! Outfit #1 { leggings, denim jacket, white sweater, converse, backpack, hair tie, carry on}

organizing & packing prep

# 2 {Leopard dress, denim jacket, wedge sandal, jewelry}

#3 {Leopard dress, denim jacket, wedge sandal, jewelry} same as above with added jacket.

#4 {Leopard dress, white sweater, leggings, backpack, jewelry, and converse }

#5 {denim jacket, white sweater, white jeans, sunglasses, jewelry, carry on}

#6 {white jeans, bird top, wedges, jewelry}

#7 {white jeans, bird top, wedges, jewelry, carry on) I Just added a jacket.

organizing & packing prep

Hello Beautiful!

Last week I introduced you to Baggallini luggage & bag company. Promising you some easy packing tips and 6-7 outfit looks with just a few pieces of clothing. I am off for a weekend meeting for two days with my @baggallini rolling tote and backpack to help make traveling easy and light. Here are 8 tips I hope you find useful.

I had a quick meeting✈️ , and I stated I’d share my packing tips for creating easy outfits out of just a few pieces to make packing light! I don’t know about you, but I love the ease of 1 carry-on bag! Wanting to look put together and chic without the hassle of multiple luggage. The above shows 7 outfits & below are some of my favorite tips & the clothing pieces I used to create 7 looks with ease…

Clothing Pieces: To create the 7 looks above.Denim Jacket {here} White Jeans {here} Leggings {here} White Sweater {here} Bird Top sold out Another Option{here} Leopard Dress {here} Wedges Similar {here} Another option {here} Converse {here} Pj’s similar {here} Pj’s similar cami set {here}

Shop the post below:

8 tips for Packing light for a weekend Getaway

#1:

Find luggage that is easy to use, for instance, lightweight and stylish! Not only are these bags stylish, but they are also so functional. The tote is overflowing with compartments for a laptop, documents, clothing, cosmetics. I love everything can have a place with 3 zippered compartments! The matching Metro backpack lets you be hands-free because it has multiple pockets & comes with an RFID wristlet which helps keep your information safe! ✈️

I love the black-on-black Cheetah print, and the piece is so lightweight! 🧳 You know I love some animal print.

#2:

I like to travel wearing a jacket that can be versatile. This gives you more room in your bag!

#3:

Pack items that can mix and match, for instance, allowing you to pack less but create new looks! So what’s in the bag…Pj’s, toiletries, undergarments, laptop, tan wedges, white jeans, button-up top, shirt dress, jewelry….all going with the pieces I am wearing…As a result, I can create 6-7 looks with these pieces!

#4:

Use a divider toiletry bag {here} and purchase the travel-size bottles of everything you regularly use.

#5:

Because I love shoes and could pack a different pair for every outfit! Try to build your outfits out of pieces that work with just a couple of types of shoes. As a result, this keeps your bags lighter and really does help to keep things simple. (In the Winter, I try to wear my boots on the plane and pack the lighter pair.)

#6:

Pack a tide stick & dryer sheet, for instance, to keep your clothes smelling fresh and remove a spot.

#7:

I like to use little snack baggies to pack my necklaces in and keep tangle-free, for instance.

#8:

Pack a variety of jewelry, for instance, some statement earrings, hoops, along with several rings, necklaces & bracelet pieces that work together to give your outfits different looks. Because jewelry is small it takes up little room and yet makes a big impact on finishing an outfit.

Shop my Travel favorites below:

Hoping I inspired you to create a travel capsule, if you will, and my 8 tips for packing and 7 outfit inspirations helped you for your next trip!

$500.00 Giveaway Perfect for A New Summer wardrobe or trip

$500.00 cash give away

Hey Beautiful’s! I’ve teamed up with some of my favorite Bloggers and YouTubers for a great giveaway. One lucky person will win $500 in PayPal Cash. The Winner will be announced by 7/5 on this page. You’ll receive 3 points for each entry. By entering this contest you’re subscribing to the hosts email list. Be sure enter the contest below! Good luck!

a Rafflecopter giveaway

What A perfect giveaway, Oh… What I would do with a$500 fun shopping spree ( I would shop my prior Sale’s post!) Here or maybe a little weekend getaway? How about you? What would you do with $500.00?

Make sure to enter…You can’t win if you don’t enter:)

Click here for $500 giveaway to Register to Win

Have a great night beautiful’s! OX, D’Arcy

5 Things to do for the perfect & easy girl’s weekend!

Main street, Park City, Ut.

Sisters… Girlfriend’s weekend day in Park City for Sundance!

Girl’s weekend=Sundance, Park City, Ut. for a day of shopping, photoshoots, and yummy food!

Soft Pretzel, Beer cheese, and Blue moon beer

I adore black and white stripes… A restaurant that serves a Black and white stripe straw is a winner in my book! Sometimes it really is just the small things!

Chicken burger and fries at The Spur in Park city

Epic Hydrating mask

Last weekend we had an impromptu girl’s weekend at home! Not planned in any way, and I sometimes feel that’s the best kind! My sister Tiana was in town on business for Sundance, and we realized her Friday night and Saturday were free. So I called two of my other girlfriends and said, “come over for a simple dinner & drinks” they said they’d love to! (they happen to be kid-free!) YAY! No planning went into it at all. I used what I had at home, Quiche, soup, and some rolls. Super easy and no extra fuss. We even said, “wear something cozy and bring an overnight bag just in case!” This led to a fun night of good talks, laughter, and even a few good tears staying up until 1 am, leading to a sleepover.

We woke up on Saturday to Sharon making scone’s a mix that she brought from her home served with yummy jam. Delicious! We stayed in our Pj’s being lazy ALL day on the couch… watching the Hallmark channel. I tried out some home beauty treatments (full treatment steps here), then we made a quick & easy dinner and planned our Sunday in Park City. Still in our Pj’s…

Our Sunday plans really weren’t all that big…A little shopping, (Park city’s Tjmax has great finds) My sister said we should all buy these, (Which of course we’re going to take her beauty advice and all bought a set!) cafe’ sitting with people watching, a photoshoot, shopping the main street and finding a place we haven’t tried YET to eat! (WINK) we love to head over to Park City a lot for a change of scenery. My Sister had appointments in the morning, so she had to meet us just a touch later. With no set schedule, we just rolled with how the day took shape. When you have a small group of 2-4, it’s easy to roll with the punches and not set a schedule.

The girlfriend bond is so important and really special when you can share your heart with no judgment. I am lucky to have a great group of girls that truly are a blessing in my life, and I love it when we can have lunch, a movie night, or even a quick drink on the deck. Having a whole weekend is rare, and I think really important for our girl bonding and that little break from family life. I think it helps us to be better moms and wives.

Here are my 5 Things to do for the easy perfect girl’s weekend!

Don’t plan too much… It Makes for no stress and an easy weekend.
Use food from your pantry, maybe have a girlfriend bring something she has on hand.
Plan to stay in your pj’s and be lazy for 1 whole day.
Drag out your masks, facial creams, and manicure stuff.
Have an outing, a hike, a day trip, or a meal out.

Doing these 5 things will ensure you have a relaxing, well-rounded weekend with the girls.

A much-needed weekend with just the girls was just what I needed to relax, refocus and share stories to catch up—the perfect amount of laziness and girl time.
If you haven’t had a day or weekend with just the girls, you really need to treat yourself.

Need any other Girl’s weekend tips or ideas? Leave a comment below; I’d love to help!

*I wish I would have taken more photo’s over the weekend. (you would have liked our pj’s and face masks) I didn’t think I would write about it, and then I realized it’s a great topic. Who doesn’t want affordable idea’s to do something fun with the girlfriends?

Oktoberfest At Snowbird, Utah! Annual Couple’s weekend!

Pumpkin Beer with Whip cream, Sounds weird but it’s so good!

Beautiful mountain view for Oktoberfest weekend! Fall in Utah you never know what weather your going to get, in the mountains! Snow, rain or Shine it’s alway’s a great time!

Cheer’s to a great weekend with friends!

Snowbird, Utah in little cottonwood canyon!

Fashion shoot in the Fall leaves!

Fall foliage is Stunning in the Fall up at Snowbird, Utah in the little Cottonwood canyon! Perfect for a fashion shoot!

We love the opportunity to take the Scenic drive home.

Ruth’s dinner, Emigration canyon!

Oktoberfest is the world’s largest Volksfest. Held annually in Munich, Bavaria and Germany. It’s a 16 to 18 day folk festival running from mid or late September to the first weekend in October, with more then 6 million people from all around the world attending the event every year. During the event large amounts of beer are consumed, along with traditional foods, amusement rides, vendors and games.

Did you know you didn’t need to head to Europe to join in on the fun? We have a great Oktoberfest right here in Utah…. Head up Little Cottonwood canyon to Snowbird from August to October and experience all the same fun! Snowbird’s Oktoberfest was awarded one of America’s 10 Best Oktoberfests and we agree! While this event can be a family affair, activities, music, food and brews, We chose to make it a couples weekend. It’s a great chance to get together with friends and enjoy the activities without having to look after littles! Nothing like catching up with friends and enjoying a beer to catch a break from parenting for the weekend!

Ben and I started going to this event 8 or 9 years ago I believe, (Ben is Dutch and he loves the German food, some is similar to Dutch! Schnitzel, Bratwurst, Sauerkraut, potato salad, apple strudel and of course the Soft pretzel!) We heard about the event and at that time it was only in August, every year it has grown larger and each year Snowbird extends the dates. Now it goes until October! My hubby suggested it as a little one night getaway, a date night I couldn’t pass up! As we both moved to Big Bear lake, Ca. when we were 10 and the Oktoberfest was a huge tradition in October in Big Bear growing up, we both had fond memories! Snowbird didn’t disappoint, we had a ball and truly thought the event was so entertaining and so well done, we started making it an annual event. A couple years into going to our annual Oktoberfest date we decided it would be fun to share with friends and invited a couple of couples….and well it’s grown to several couples and a whole weekend event.

We start to plan our weekend in the month of July, we look at the dates Snowbird is hosting that year and pick the weekend that works for everyone. We like to stay at the cliff lodge and book Friday to Sunday! This allows us to have time at the Spa or pool on Friday and enjoy dinner together! Saturday we have the whole day to enjoy the festivities of Oktoberfest. Oktoberfest closes at 6pm so we’ll stroll to the outside bar and play some yard games and enjoy the time in the mountain air until it’s dark. Then we’ll head to our dinner reservation and maybe hit the spa before it closes. It makes for a really fun filed day and nobody wants to have to drive home, plus its fun to enjoy a wonderful Sunday breakfast after sleeping in!

I can’t believe I don’t have pictures of the day everyone dressed up in traditional costumes and I really can’t believe I don’t have a picture of me in my hubbies hat, he bought in Germany when Hudson was almost 3, that I wear every year and have been collecting pins from Oktoberfest since we’ve been coming! (well, some years I don’t have, because snowbird sells out fast!) I might have to take a quick day trip next year on opening day just to grab one before they sell out! Note: to Snowbird…Order MORE souvenirs! They are always out of Small and Med tee’s & sweatshirts and never have pins come late September! They do always have plenty of cool Beer Steins for the year and are refillable for a fee. I love collecting the steins and incase you didn’t guess, I really like beer!

The large food tent never disappoints! The entertainment, dancing (funky chicken & Polka) and all the Authentic German food has us partaking for hours. It’s a standing joke, if my husbands missing….he’s getting Strudel! Ben is alway’s searching out food so he is one happy guy at this event!

Have a family and want to make it a family affair? This event won’t disappoint, there’s plenty to do in the beautiful mountain setting, from the mountain coaster, 100 person Aerial tram to ride to the top of the mountain & listen to the Alphorns echo from atop Hidden peak, vertical drop, rope course, climbing wall, bungee trampoline, tree climb, bounce houses, games and plenty of food & shopping tents. The whole family will have a ball!

I look forward to this weekend every year and I hope I inspired you to want to take a drive up little cottonwood canyon next Fall for Oktoberfest! OX, D’Arcy

Sun Valley Idaho, Family Ski Trip!

Family getaway!

Just a peak into what’s in My Suitcase for a ski Trip! Black North face jacket here, Ralph Lauren ski pants sold out, Miss ski patrol thermal shirt old, Victoria secrets sports bra here, black leggings here and fun ski sock!

Dollar Mnt. Is my youngest son’s Favorite ski Park in Sun Valley ,While the Big boy’s like to go Ski at Sun Valley, so we go to both. Here we’re skiing Dollar but the Big boy’s skied the main part of the day at Sun Valley then Joined us!

The details in the lodges at both resorts are simple stunning….Here’s a sample of just the smallest detail, a sun in the handles in the bathroom!!!

Just chilling watching my boys in the park! That’s one of the things that’s nice about this resort is you can sit on the patio and see the kids! This was the Day we arrived the boys just wanted to hit the slopes! I knew I had plenty of day’s to do that!

Sunday Morning coffee , Fire and Stuffed croissants! A peaceful morning while the boys all slept!

Saturday was our son’s 14th Birthday! Our Family tradition is to Wake up to treats and presents…and of course I had to bring a touch of birthday celebration with us! We Come to Sun Valley around this time every year and it’s one of his favorite trips!

Taking some Runs with the Birthday boy!

The lodge at Sun Valley Idaho….Sinclair Oil does everything with Class! They own both of the resorts in Sun Valley and Snow Basin in Utah. From Beautiful chandelier’s to cozy sitting area’s to Fabulous food. You could just sit and enjoy the comfort while people watching!

Stunning views from the gondola! Sneaking a run with my cute hubby!

Beautiful pit stop at the historic Round House for a drink and a little break! These are some very long runs we’re pooped! My girlfriend and her daughter joined us on this trip and it was so fun having some girl’s around! (please don’t mind my helmet hair!)

This is a peek at the inside of this cool historic Round House sitting in the middle of the slopes at Sun Valley. Inside and outside 5 star dinning. (also Open at night for dinner while viewing the stars!)

Sun Valley has a ton of Fabulous restaurants and bars! We loved the Cellar so much we ate there twice! Smoky Mountain Pizzeria grill was our son’s Birthday dinner pick! (we go here every year!) Some other Favorite’s are The Pioneer Saloon( No kids allowed), The Sawtooth Club, The Bigwood Bread cafe (this is one of my favorite Breakfast or mid afternoon coffee and sweet treat places) Below I featured Kneadery which is a great county type Breakfast! One of my hubby’s favorite stops is Konitorei in the Village at Sun Valley resort serving European coffee & desserts!

The town is so cute and has a ton of Fun Gift & Clothing shop’s we enjoy browsing and shopping in! Sharon and I spent way to much money! LOL!

Even the Starbucks is eye candy! Every wall is covered in logs and vintage photo’s!

The Kneadery is Open for Breakfast and lunch only! A perfect stop on the way out of town! Everyone enjoyed their breakfast and was full for the 4 hour drive home!

Ok… so I know your asking WHY did you go on a ski vacation…. When you live in a ski town? ….. Well we really don’t live in a REAL ski town! We have 3 cool Ski resorts and a lake, tons of hiking and its strikingly beautiful … But we don’t have a village, a tons of restaurants or a night life and most of ALL the break my hubby needs from RACE course Setting & TEAM coaching…His office is the slopes 6 months out of the year! The different terrain is refreshing and it’s one of our favorite ski towns! (Not to mention our Ski passes work in Sun Valley! How cool is that!!)

I hope you enjoyed a little peek into our family’s getaway and maybe you might want to check out Sun Valley the next time you want to go on a Ski vacation!

Now off to plan a BEACH vacation…it’s been one long Winter! OX, D’Arcy

Birthday Celebrating 45

Wishing in 45 With our Utah friends at the Pumpkin Patch

Birthday Lunch with My family at Maggiano’s @fashion Show in Las Vegas

Shopping with my mom and Boys in Las Vegas

Dry Bar Las Vegas

Turning 45

My long Time girlfriend Opened a Boutique (a dream of hers for years) Rowan on Santa Claus lane in Carpinteria….so it was a Joy to go visit her, Shop her Boutique and go out to Lunch❤️

Santa Barbara , cliff Hike with Ocean view, My Hubby and I went for a 2.1/2 hour hike in the cliff’s and then hiked down to the ocean…. (where my phone fell in!)

My Men❤️ Sunday Breakfast and a morning Beach walk!

Turning 45….. Wow I don’t feel 45… Where does the time go? I can honestly say age really doesn’t matter, It’s all in how you feel and act. I try to take care of myself, stay busy and love life…. Rocking in 45 is just another number BUT the Long weekend celebrating it was a blast! I couldn’t have asked for a better way to celebrate….Wonderful people, good food, some of my favorite Things & My loves all in the City & the Beach! One Happy Girl! Thanks to everybody who helped celebrate with me. ❤️D’Arcy

NYFW Part 3 Our outfits

Street Style…. Little black dress, Valentino shoes and Jimmy Choo clutch, leather choker

Valentino Rockstud ankle strap in patent leather with Nappa straps. Platinum-finish studs made in Italy

Street Style ( Tiana Holiday)

Cream Lace dress, Off the shoulder, leather strap clog sandal worn for the Social House event @shopstyle

Style Shop Social House… Photo compliments of #Square CASh

Tiana Holiday

Street style Time Square, Kut from the Kloth Leather jacket, Kut from the Kloth Button up shirt? Jcrew beaded skirt, Gucci clutch, Chanel jewelry

Street style photography in Time square {Sister’s}

Street Style casual… Edyson Jeans, Splendid Tank, Havana Flip flops, Hobo Bag, Tiffany Silver Jewelry, Rayban Sunglasses

Street Style in Brooklyn heading to “ART meets Fashion” display

Cristina Ruales Dance performance at Inglot studio’s

Tiana Holiday ( my sister)
Cristina Rules Dance performance at Inglot studios

Black Leather jeans, black pletted tank and , black Open toe booties, Jimmy Choo clutch

Black Leather jeans, black pleaded tank and, black Open toe strap bootie wedge BCBG Jimmy Choo clutch

Street style, AC/DC junk Food tee, patch skinny jeans by Kut from the Kloth, Jimmy Choo clutch

Worn for our Morning Hair appointments at Dry Bar

Street style, Black crisis cross tee, patched Kut from the Kloth Skinnies, Olive vest duster, converse tennis shoes...

Street style, Black Criss cross tee, patched Kut from the Kloth Skinnies, Olive vest duster, leather choker, cuff bracelet, converse tennis shoes… Worn to watch a show, shopping and sightseeing:)

Kut from the Kloh Patched jeans .... Skinny and ankle cuffed

Kut from the kloth Patched jeans …. Skinny and ankle cuffed ❤️worn at the Baccarat Bar

Leanne Marshell Runway Show at the skylight & pop up event by Hotel Hugony a Cute boutique Hotel!

Leanne Marshelle Runway Show at the skylight & pop up event by Hotel Hugony a Cute boutique Hotel!

This outfit Black waxed Jeans ( jbrand) black criss cross tee, and sequined jacket (J crew) black clutch Jimmy Choo and black open toe booties by Vince Camuto… Worn to 2 shows I had to rush from one to another without change…. Leanne Marshelle show & the Sherri Hill show

Kut from the Kloth outfit and BCBG shoes worn Arriving for NYFW

NYFW …. The clothes! What to wear when you attend NWFW In the Fall….With this being My First Time, not a lot of time to plan and unusually warm weather, I felt I did pretty good on the packing and choosing the right outfits for for shows, travel, sightseeing and Nightlife. I didn’t feel out of place or uncomfortable in any situation but I did learn pack only clothes that photograph well ( I wore a pretty dress that I love to the Social House event and It doesn’t photograph well…. It was perfect for Brunch which I knew It would be but I knew in my heart it wasn’t going to photograph well and it didn’t!) not having time to change to get to Social House…. I missed out on Having some great photograph opportunities….

I would make changes for sure….. Pack More skirts & dresses, only clothes that photograph well, I didn’t need as much jewelry as I packed…. ( narrow down Jewelery to go with each outfit!) being my first time I brought Casual and dressy for each outfit❤️ I also brought to Many shoes Way to Many Shoes Narrow down to My Favorite Black Heels, shoes to match my dressier dress, 1 pair of sandals, pair of Tennis shoes and 1 flip flop and 1 Bootie or wedge! Really Take the time to match. Shoes to multiple outfits…Shoes weigh a lot and you really need the spare weight!

Things I packed that I was so thankful for…. My black waxy leather jeans I wore 3 times and made 3 completely different outfits with different tops, jacket, shoes and accessories (sorry we were rushing so much of the Time we forgot pictures of some outfits) my leather jacket… Not because it was cold (it was unbearably hot a couple of the days) but to add a cool factor on your shoulders! My Hobo bag ❤️ goes cross body for sightseeing And travel day’s, 1 pair of trendy jeans, shoe pads, gel for the heels, foot cream, Bandades, 2 portable charges, airborne and aspirin.

NWFW THE Parties ( part 2)Taking in NYFW

September 8th

Our First NYFW kicked of With a fun Meet & greet at the Gansevoort Hotel and Rooftop Bar in the Meatpacking district…. So Beautiful and a fun way to kick off the Week. (details on what we wore in a upcoming post)

Sister’s The Beautiful view from the rooftop of The Gansevoort

Stunning View of the Hudson River from The rooftop of Gansevoort

View of the Hudson River, Rooftop Gansevoort Meatpacking

Gansevoort rooftop 360-degree panoramic views Of New York City and sunsets over the Hudson River

Time square…. Off to The W for a meet and greet

Cheers to the Start of NYFW

September 9Th

LULUS Style Studio…. Influencer and Blogger party

We were spoiled with drinks, treats and Swag….sponsored by NYX,The Balm, Amika, LVX, Nu.ME. LaqA & co., black Swan, Herbivore, Winky Lux, Pop chip, Kind, Sigma and Woodsee…. Hosted by LULUS… Such a fun Time socializing, meeting our Style Collective sister’s & other influential Bloggers , being treated like a queen! (More About the Swag and WHAT we wore)

Lulus Style Studio

LULUS Style studio a fun Night full of fun Swag, food, Drinks, photo’s and socializing

Then off to the RoofTop Party at the Standard…. The nightlife in NYC is crazy bars & clubs stay Open until 4am…. If I wasn’t on Utah Time I wouldn’t have been able to keep up❤️

The Standard, High line

Rooftop view from Standard rooftop party

Rooftop view from The Standard rooftop party

RoofTop View at The Standard…

September 10th

Brunch at the Pennsylvania 6 with the Style collective girl’s

Shop Style Social House

ShopStyle Social House

Style Shop Social House… Photo compliments of #Square CASh

The Shop Style Social House at the Glass House, a Blogger and influencer party with beautiful views, fun photo opportunities , Tons of Swag and great company was Another great event with so much to take in….Being our first time we didn’t know what to expect and really didn’t allow for enough time to experience ALL they had to offer. (We had a fashion show to get to) If I am LUCKY enough to get a chance to go again I would allow for a several hours to enjoy all they had to offer…. Beautiful views & professional photographers, yummy treats, clothing, accessories and stationary booths. ALL with Swag (You’ll read more about this soon) sponsored by Yumi Kim, Sole society, square Cash, Gigi New York, Vestiaire, signature Hallmark, BaubleBar, Sam Edelman …HOSTed by Shop Style

September 11th

Street Style in Brooklyn heading to “ART meets Fashion” display

Cristina Ruales Dance performance at Inglot studio’s

Tiana Holiday (my sister)
Cristina Rules Dance performance at Inglot studios

9/11 Top of the Rock… Breathtaking view of Ground zero and NYC

September 12,

Leanne Marshall Runway Show at the skylight & pop up event by Hotel Hugony a Cute boutique Hotel!

A pop up Party by…Hotel Hugo Ny, A Boutique Hotel

Hotel Hugo Ny…pop up Bar and appetizers at Leanne Marshalls Runway Show at Skylight.

September 13th

Baccarat Hotel and Bar…. Drinks and a meeting❤️

Baccarat Hotel & Bar

Baccarat Hotel & Bar This place is so Chic and Beautiful That Kate spade did a photo shoot here❤️

September 14th

Our last day in NYC…. Today we Skipped our Morning FAShion Show, Packed up and headed for New York bagels, a walk in Central Park, Took a breather and enjoyed the LAST few hours we Had to TAKE in NYC…. We did have to Grab the last of Our Treats to take Home to Our families… (mine requested FOOD) more about that in next couple post🍴

I hope you’re enjoying the recap of our trip! Ox, D’Arcy

NYFW (The Shows) Part 1

NYFW ( New York Fashion Week) A dream since I was 10!

As a little girl I played Barbies just to dress her and design her house… I have love Fashion from planing my school outfits to getting dressed up for Dances or compete in Pageants! As I grew I scoured Magazines and love to window shop and of course shop! I would watch the award shows just to view the red carpet. To attend NYFW Was one of my biggest dreams. Not to just Fly to New York and be in the city the week it was happening… But to actually be apart of shows, parties, influencer parties and soak in the excitement of what Fashion week is all about!

My Dream came true when My sister called and Said “I got contracted to do Makeup for NYFW… You should come with Me!!” WHAT … Is this really happening!!! It was and so the planning, contacting and research began!) oh…. And what was I going to wear!!!! ???? Between Owning a Boutique, my contacts with Style Collective, contacts I have made over the years and of course My Sister’s (Tiana Holiday) contacts and connections we started to plan our Big week…. We had just 3 weeks to Plan and organize what would be our first vacation ever together, not to mention a dream come true for both… And we get to experience it together! Pure Joy❤️

I will be sharing our experience in 6 parts…. The Breakdown of NYFW

The Fashion Shows

The Parties

My Outfits (and some of my sisters)

The food

The sights

The swag

The shows…. This is not an easy task to get into a Show Small or Big…. So we were Blessed to attending 1 show let alone 6 shows with seats (hows have seats and standing at each show) Specially at such short notice! (God was really working for us) People work at getting into shows for months prior!

Here is a peak at the Shows I was LUCKY to attend.

The Austrian swim resort showcase

Plitz showcase

Cristina Ruales dance performance collection

Leanne Marshall Runway showcase

Sherri Hill at Gotham Hill

Anniesa Hasibuan collection at Skylight @Maynihan station THE DOCK

My first ever NYFW fashion show! Showcase Sabo Luxe, Bossa, ARK, Frankie by Rebecca, ete, Alphabe Where the designers that showed!

SABO LUXE

The press

SABO LUXE

BOSSA

Ark swimwear

Frankie Swimwear

Ark swimwear

Frankie swimwear

Frankie swim wear

ete show

Alphabe Show

ALPHABE

AlpHABE

Showcase

Cristina Ruales dance performance collection @ Inglot studios

Cristina Rulales show. This lady is a hat designer sitting in the audience! I am telling you some of the audience was just as exciting as the show.

Sherri Hill

Gotham Hall

Gotham Hill

Sherri Hill

Sherri Hill……. Note the Olymic gold gymnastics stars in front, a Disney Star ( sorry I am not sure her name)

Sherri Hill

Sherri Hill One of my favorite dresses💕

Sherri Hill

Sherri Hill model Sadie Roberson

Sherri Hill The beading is to die for💕

Sherri Hill

Sherri Hill I am obsessed with this dress❤️

Skylight @ Maynihan Station ( The docks) this is where a majority of the Big designers showed ( tons of press hung out here)

Anniesa Hasibuan ss17 collection

Anniesa Hasibuan ss17 collection at Skylight This gown was stunning, The lace, the beading, the pearls and Craftmanship was just just so beautiful! I could not get a shot to do it justic❤️

Anniesa Hasibuan ss17 collection @ Skylight the final gown

Seeing shows first hand and being able to see a good verity of shows, from New designers to established designers was such a treat! The Quality of clothing, the craftsmanship and detail was amazing on different levels. Some of the shows weren’t my style but you could appreciate the Craftmanship or Just one piece you could see how you would style it! I love the Venues, each so different and ALL over the city! Exciting to feel the different energy of each show and of course people watch! ( people watching is one of my favorite things! I could hear my mom telling “their story” in my head❤️) Fashion is different to everyone… Quality, design, Trendy, personal flare, affordable , expensive , classy AND at Fashion week you see it All!

Truly felt blessed to have gotten this exsperience and I have to tell you it was better then any of my hopes & dreams! Now that I have done it once and learned so much… I would love to plan really plan really prepare …I ‘ve got the bug and do it again next year! I have a better Idea of what to expect, what to pack , how to plan, what events to do again, what to show up extra early for and what to skip!

Hope you enjoyed the shows through my eyes and looking forward to Post 2 of NYFW…

Do you have a question or want me to share something about NYFW? Leave a comment I am Happy to share my point of view from A newbie❤️ D’Arcy (My Style over 40)

darcyvandenberg