blonde Archives - Page 4 of 9

Valentine Outfit Inspirations

Sweater: Victoria Secret Cashmere line (sold out), similar here. Pants: here. Shoes: similar here. Vest: similar Here Jacket Here Vest.

Tee: similar Here here, Pants: similar here, Shoes: similar here, Jacket: here

(this sweater has hearts all over it) Sweater: similar here, Pants: here, Shoe Clips: similar here, Leather Jacket: here

Sweater (sold out): similar here, Pants: here, Shoes: similar here

Sweater: (sold out)similar here, Pants: similar here, Shoes: similar here

Don’t love hearts? Or haven’t started your collection? Think pink, red, burgundy, leopard, anything in that color way can work to create a fun and festive outfit. You don’t have to have hearts or love written on it! Beanies: Here, Kiss shoes that are so darling: Here Sweaters I love but not shown: Here Here Here Here

A collection of jewelry perfect for the month of love and really everyday! Start your collection today... Bag:Lex and Sullivan, Red Tassel Earrings: similar here, Hot Pink Tassel: similar here, Ombre Pink Earrings: similar here, Heart Hoop Set of 2: here, Love You More Necklace: similar here, Heart Necklace: similar here, Giving Key Necklace: sold on there website , Love Necklace: similar here

Hello Beautifuls, its been a little while since I’ve posted a blog post and I am so sorry! If you follow my Instagram and my stories I explained my little creative funk. Winter sometimes puts me in the blues and then add teaching full time to the mix and it took all my time. I have finished my long term teaching position and and am ready to poor my heart and soul out here. I’ll have to share about my experience teaching here soon! If you want to hear about it let me know!

Valentine’s day is tomorrow and I have been sharing inspiration all over my Instagram for the last couple of weeks and several of you asked to see more everyday outfit inspirations. You ask, I give! 🙂 In this post I wanted to share several looks you could get inspiration from and hopefully copy with similar items you have in your closet. Remember if you don’t have the exact item you can use “like” items… Think graphic tee, sweater, cardigan, leather coat, black jeans etc. I linked items that were in stock and other items that I loved or are similar. (Thank you so much for shopping my links and supporting my blog it really means the world to me!)

I adore the month of February, the month of all things love. My hubbies birthday is first part of the month, then Valentines day and we end with our Anniversary. We have something to celebrate each week and it helps this Winter month to go by FAST. I also love hearts and all things pink and red so i’ve been collecting pieces of clothing, jewelry, and decor that work for the month of love for years! Every year I pick up a couple more things. Don’t worry if you don’t have a huge Valentine collection, just think Pink, red, sparkly and even a touch of leopard. Valentines doesn’t have to be fancy or dressy either (although I always love a chance to dress up), I found I don’t dress up for Valentines (I do for our Anniversary). I normally work and cook a fun festive dinner for my family so I need more everyday looks that are festive and fun. This was the first February teaching school and I wore a fun Valentine look everyday last week and the kids and other teachers loved it. (especially the little girls!) That made my last week of school more fun! One of the things I realized about teaching that kids are so observant and really do love all the Holiday festive clothes and jewelry! (thank goodness I had a bunch of Christmas things to wear for the month of December) If you want to check out my festive Holiday looks I wore they are on my Instagram feed. So after all that… that is the reason for my outfit inspirations! Everyday Valentine’s day looks you can wear day or night.

I hope you find inspiration in this post and if you have questions or an idea you want me to blog about please leave a comment. Have a beautiful Valentine’s Day OX, D’Arcy!

Relaxing and Taking Care of Your Skin During The Busy Season With Saranghae

take time to relax with a bubblebath and skin care

The last 45 days I have had the pleasure to work with (which means I love you in Korean!) I love that, and I love they think aging is something to be happy about – aging should be celebrated! I have also said this many times. I shared how I felt about aging in an older blog post here. Every age has something to celebrate and yet we don’t have to look our age and this is why I love their skincare line. It’s make a huge difference in the way my skin has been looking! My friends & family has really noticed a difference and have been asking me what I was doing. Well, is my secret! I have enjoyed my weekly bubble baths and face mask. It’s really important to take care of yourself especially during the hustle and stress of the Holiday season! Take some time for yourself, draw a bubble bath, and put on a face mask! That 20-40 mins will change your attitude and help your face.

Aging and its signs are a natural part of life, it’s inevitable but we don’t have to look our age. mission is to make people around the world feel beautiful, confident, and proud to be in their skin. Using their Complete 5 Step Routine gives your skin everything it needs to age healthily and beautifully. It would make a great gift fo the woman in your life too!

take time to relax with a bubblebath and skin care

I want to share some of the questions asked me before and after I started their program:

How do you feel about aging?

I love the lessons we learn from year to year as we grow older. I also love all the memories we create. Obviously I don’t like looking older! Who does? I feel blessed to have good genes as nobody guesses my age nor my moms! Let’s face it, it’s not all about genes, you have to eat right, drink lots of water and take care of your skin. I have been lucky to not have had to fight acne in my teens or adult years so thats been a plus!

How is using the Routine made you feel about your self confidence & how important it is to take time for yourself?

I have loved how my skin is looking and how it doesn’t feel so dry. I really am seeing a difference in my cheeks, not as crepey! As for taking time for yourself, I am a firm believer in taking a bubble bath, having a cup of tea and doing a face mask twice a week. Maybe read a good book while doing both!

Share any improvements you have seen in your skin & how that makes you feel with us?

I shared a little of this above, but also my skin is softer, smoother and the smile lines smaller.

Humor! Any fun stories surrounding aging?

Well, my girlfriends and I have had some pretty funny stories about aging and things that change as we age and the differences we’ve seen specially after 40! Like dry skin, facial hair, falling skin, etc. We don’t take it too serious and try to encourage each other and share things that are working to improve our needs. has been the products I’ve been sharing with them a lot lately! One of the benefits of maturity is you build wonderful friendships and with good friends you can be honest about your faults and be more open.

Can you share a message of how aging should be celebrated, shouldn’t be taken too seriously, makes you feel confident and comfortable with aging & better in your skin?

As you age you start to feel beautiful in your own skin! In your 20’s your neglecting your skin and trying to find yourself, in your 30’s your busy raising kids, balancing a career and trying to find the right anti aging miracle cream, in your 40’s you find the things that matter most and you stop to celebrate! In my 40’s to be honest is when I’ve paid most attention to my skin, what it needs and ways to improve it! I have loved my skin in the last 45 days and excited to have found something that makes people ask what am I doing? Midlife doesn’t have to show in your skin! take time to relax with a bubblebath and skin care

5 STEP PRODUCTS

=Nourishing & Moisturizing Oil & Foam Cleanser

= Deep Radiance Essence + Serum

=Firm & Lift Cellular Regeneration Cream

= Elemental Essence Mask

= Focus Renewal Eye Cream

45 days to fall in love with your skin or your money back!

October Favorites

October Favorites!

I am a little late to the game on posting October Favorites! But better late than never, right? October was a crazy month, and It’s one of my favorite months too! (maybe because it’s my birthday month?) So anyway posting a monthly round-up of my favorite things from that month featuring anything I loved, from fashion to podcast I am listening to. It has been a popular post of mine, so I thought I would share a more clear favorite from the month here on the blog!

This will be a NEW monthly post (hopefully closer to the end of the month)! This will feature any random things I loved throughout the month, including products I used up! October brought us all the Fall feels with cooler temperatures and pumpkin spice starting to make its way into everything! So here is what made its way into my heart, home and body this last October!

October Favorite: Fall Fashion

One of my favorite things is dressing for Fall! I love the layers and finding fun pieces. I saw this jacket last year at Nordstrom rack and am linking a (similar one DEAL Here and Here) pants and sweater in the photo below.

all black outfit, fall outfit, fall vibes, photos,

Fall leaves are gorgeous this time of the year and perfect for stunning photos! Loving all the Fall vibes. Outfit details: Sweater {here} {similar here} black jeans {similar here} Another October Favorite: over the knee boots {similar here and Here}

On my Instagram, I shared this post with my feelings on aging. Please read it here. October is my birthday month, and I always enjoy the beauty of Fall and the feelings you get from the cooler temperatures and color change. Outfit details: Duster {similar here and here}, distressed jeans {similar here and here}, tee-shirt {here}, and another one I love {here}, plus a killer deal {here}. Let’s not forget these super cute booties {here}, October favorite for Sure! My leopard cardigan cut as well for an October favorite {here}, and this Sweatshirt {here}, plus these pj’s {here}.

October Favorite Books

One of the books I read, Wildchild, is my month’s fav! I couldn’t put it down! Here are a couple more books I read: Good, Better, Best by Sue McCarthy, Audacious by Beth Moore, and The Participation Game by Norty Cohen. I love to read, and I love an actual book to hold, not a fan of my kindle except for travel. How about you? I usually don’t get four books done in 1 month either but being a teacher. You read when the kids do!

I enjoyed each book and was excited to learn business techniques, more about faith, and a book for the joy of reading and taking you somewhere different with a storyline you could relate to. What are you reading? Joanna Gaines’s book is on my nightstand right now (I have had since she released it! Maybe a year or two?) In my school bag is The Career Code.

A book about the photographer, model, and magazine world: it was such a fun read I couldn’t put it down!
A quote from the book Wildchild that I loved and couldn’t have said better! ” Style makes you different. Fashion makes you the same!”

October Favorite Products

I used up. Well, maybe my hubby helped a little! Wink wink! Loreal Revitalift Intensive Overnight Mask: wear in the evening after cleansing the face. It moisturizes but feels thick. Glo Hydra Radiance Moisturizer: a daily moisturizer that makes your skin glow, almost dewy, I would purchase again. Hyaluronic Acid Anti Aging Serum: Use after your toner & helps even skin tone and tighten skin. I think my skin looked clearer (not that I have any acne), just fresh-looking. Revision Skincare Retinol Complete: I use this at night only, and after serum, I use it around my eyes and smile lines. I feel like it helped reduce the lines. It’s a brilliant product to use in your late 30’s to 60’s.

If you have been following, you know how important skincare is to me and that I am always trying new products out to see what works and what doesn’t. I try to share my results with you over on Instastories, and every so often, I’ll do a beauty routine or round up over here on the blog. Would you mind letting me know on what social platform you want me to post results?

New here? I am 47, and nobody ever guesses my age:) some of that I can thank my mom… The other is because of my skincare routine. I’ll do a face mask twice a week (it used to be once a week until I learned 4-5 months ago you should do two a week! I use a cleanser every day and a scrub maybe three times a week. Then I’ll use a toner, then a serum. Retinol is new to my routine, and only at night, and I finish with a moisturizer. At least one night a week, sleeping with vaseline all over my face because Utah is so dry!

I am sharing this with you to understand my routine and know I try a product out for the whole month, sometimes two, before sharing it. I also want you to know I support products I love, which does not always sponsor me. What’s your favorite product? Will you be trying one of my October favorites? Please let me know below!

October brings the most beautiful sunrises. This photo was on my morning drive alongside the lake.

October Favorite Podcasts

I am listening to and can’t get enough… I don’t even listen to music in the car anymore!

Favorites List:

The Influencer Pod: Cast if you are an influencer or in any marketing, it’s a must!
Joel Osteen: Christian.
Style Collective: Great if you’re self-employed.
Wit & Wisdom: Also great if you’re self-employed.
Pop Fashion: You guessed it, Fashion-based.

My October Favorite Random Things

This month I adored this lipstick (here), my favorite blanket to snuggle up with (here), and my favorite seasonal mug (here). I used to snuggle up and watch Hocus Pocus at least 25 times during October! My favorite NEW TV shows: God Friended A Million Little Things and Me!

And now the excellent stuff! Fall means comfort food, homemade soups, mac and cheese, chicken pot pie, and yummy pasta! Here’s my easy Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookie recipe (here), and I will continue to share our family’s favorite dishes with you since it’s some of my most engaged posts. Below is my oldest son Hudson’s easy Spicy Rigatoni Recipe! You’re going to love it, and it’s so effortless!

My Sons Easy Spicy Rigatoni Recipe:
For a quick and easy throw-together meal that feels like you slaved in the kitchen. You’ll love this Spicy Rigatoni Recipe. Our family loves Buca di Beppo’s Spicy Chicken Rigatoni. One day Hudson, my oldest, decided he would recreate it in a fast college student way! So he did, and it is yummy.

You’ll Need:

1 box rigatoni Our Favorite HERE

1 16 oz jar of your Favorite Marinara sauce (we like garlic and basil) It’s WHOLE30 HERE

1 16 oz jar of your favorite Alfredo sauce but your only using about 10 oz (we like this one HERE)

1 half-pint heavy whipping cream using 1/2 of the container (we like this one HERE)

1 small bag of frozen peas

2 tablespoons of fresh minced garlic

1 tablespoon of crushed red pepper HERE

salt and pepper to taste

1/2 cup parmesan cheese to top off HERE

Optional Add-Ins: 3 Grilled chicken breast cut thin and pan-fried or grilled.

In a large pan, bring to boil water for pasta and follow directions on the box. In a medium saucepan, pour in a jar of Marinara sauce, add about 10-12 oz of the Alfredo sauce, and 1/2 the container of the cream, let simmer and add in all the seasonings. Don’t add peas to the sauce until the very end (about 1 min to the sauce), right before you drain pasta and are ready to dish up. You want the peas to be warm but still have a little crunch. Plate pasta, cover in sauce, and top with parmesan! So good and dinner in less than 20 minutes! Serve with a salad and garlic bread!

My favorite pasta serving bowl (HERE) and the best strainer (HERE)

Did you do anything from my Fall bucket list HERE?

I hope you had a beautiful October and enjoyed the list of my favorite October things! Let me know if you try a couple of them, maybe this November. Seriously, I can’t believe it’s already the 2nd week of November, and I have some exciting things planned for the blog.

The month of November is a great reminder of all the things we should be grateful for. So in November, I will be sharing my gratitude list, easy way’s to give back, and some fun shopping guides for the upcoming Holiday season. Also, Sharing shopping guides for my Black Friday, Small Business Saturday, Cyber Monday picks along with Holiday outfits, a couple of our favorite Holiday recipes, and of course, my Thanksgiving tablescape and peeks at some Holiday decor! So stay tuned as I have exciting things to share! Have a beautiful week!

THIS POST may contain affiliate links. All opinions are my own. I only promote brands that I genuinely love and believe in! Thank you for the support!

Fall Bucket List 12 Must Do Fall Activities

white kitchen, marble, super white quartzite counter tops

Bath and Body Works Fall candle collection, my favorite is leaves. Costco Fall flowers & candy corn make it feel like fall! My shirt is by Trunk old, similar here & here.

Hello Beautiful’s! You know how much I love Fall (it’s going to be my Birthday month!) and how much I love to do & enjoy all things Fall! So I thought it would be fun to do a Fall bucket list to share with you, since you loved my Winter bucket list last year (If you missed that check it out here!). I hope it inspires you to get in the spirt of the season and check a couple things off the list as well! OX

PUMPKIN PATCH – Well of course, an annual event around year! Even if my kids are big and over it! I still drag them out for a family day (normally it’s bribed with food). I always have a large assortment of pumpkins on our porch, steps and entryway. So this is a great time to have everyone pick a verity and help decorate!
HAUNTED HOUSE– A perfect date with the family, my boys will be really into this! I haven’t been to one since high school, so wish me luck!
A day in front of a fire with a cozy blanket, a cup of tea, a candle burning and a great book!
Go on an OUTDOOR HIKE, where the colors are stunning and the air is crisp!
Go to a COLLAGE FOOTBALL game! We have to go support Auston Tesch #53 for Weber state at least once a year! It’s always fun and last year my mom was here to go support him too!
Take a FALL DRIVE where the leaves are in full glory. I love grabbing a warm drink and taking a drive with my hubby to see the color’s. It’s fun to grab a meal out and make it a date. When we lived in California, we would go with the entire family,(my mom & my sister) to Oak Glen and pick apples, boy do I miss those days.
Make a HOMEMADE PIE, I haven’t made a pie from scratch in a few years. I used to love making apple pies, when we had so many apple trees in California! (I need to plant a couple apple trees)
JUMP INTO A PILE OF LEAVES and get a cute picture! I will wait for my boys to rake all the leaves up! hehe
Make a big POT OF CHILI (my veggie chili recipe is below) and watch Hocus Pocus! I mean what is fall without watching Hocus Pocus at least 10 times!
Create a FALL WARDROBE CAPSULE, these wardrobe capsules have been all the rage, (have you heard of them?) with fall being most peoples favorite time to shop, it’s a great time to create one for you. Help yourself to get inspiration and pick out classic pieces to build your wardrobe for Fall.
Spend the WEEKEND with GIRLFRIENDS in PJ’S watching HALLMARK MOVIES. Of course we’ll do face mask, drink wine and eat all kinds of yummy food! Who’s ready for a sleep over?
Enjoy a FIRE ON THE DECK making s’mores, under cozy blankets enjoying the crisp fall air! I will be decorating my back deck for fall this year! Unfortunately it’s a short season here in Utah, So I have never decorated the back deck for fall. This year we are going too spend more time wrapped in blankets enjoying the crisp air.

Corn Maze Fun: Outfit details- Cardigan old: similar here & here, Black tee Here, Shoes similar here, Camo moto pants, Old: Similar here and here here

Louis Vuitton, fall nails, purchase color here and Starbucks. Three of my favorite things!

My Easy Veggie Chili Recipe: (slow cooker) So easy you’ll make it a ton!

1 large can of chili beans and sauce

1 can each of pinto, kidney, red beans drained and rinsed

1 large can of tomato sauce

1 can of crushed tomatoes

1 cup of water

1 each of a red, yellow, green bell peppers, washed and chopped

1 large onion chopped and browned

4 cloves of garlic chopped browned

1 tablespoon of butter (for browning onion and garlic)

1 tablespoon of chili powder

1 tablespoon of onion salt

1 tablespoon of kitchen bouquet (browning seasoning)

1/2 teaspoon of salt and pepper

1/2 teaspoon garlic powder

crushed red pepper seasoning to taste

shredded cheese (for topping)

Brown the onions and garlic in the butter, then add everything (except cheese) into the crockpot on low in the morning and come home to a yummy meal! You can brown turkey or meat of choice with a chili seasoning packet and add that, but you’ll need another can of tomato sauce. Serve with corn bread, fritos or soda crackers!

Extra toppings optional: sour cream, green onions, hot sauce I hope you try it and let me know what you think. It’s a family favorite around here!

As promised I shared ALL the weekend sales on my instagram stories under Shopping!

I picked some of my favorite things and shared the deals, so go check them out!

Thank you for stopping by and taking the time out of your day to spend a little bit of time with me. If you have any question, please remember to leave a comment. I love helping my friends out! OX, D’Arcy

7 Way’s to transition Summer clothing into Fall….

Summer whites work for Fall too! Break the white after labor day rule! Pair with your favorite tank or tee, I paired with my Pumpkin spice latte tank from last Fall. I love wearing the Summer cropped jeans into fall and winter because they work so well with the ankle booties and laced up ballet flats.
White blazer {here}
Jeans {here}
tank similar {here}
shoes similar {here}
necklace similar {here} {here}
rings similar {here} and similar {here} {here}

Mixing it up for a fun Fall transition outfit🍂🍁
Camo, leopard, denim and a little bit of leather make for one of my favorite combos!
Fashion tip✔️ Play with your textures and prints!
Jacket similar {here} {here} {here}
top similar {here} {here}
Jeans similar {here} {here}
clutch similar {here}
Belt similar {here}
shoes similar {here}{here}{here}
lip stick {here}

Taking Summer clothes to a Fall🍁🍂 look… Summer Kimono Similar {here} & cami similar {here} {here}paired with leather jeans {similar here} and {here} and studded booties {here} similar {here} earrings similar {here} perfect for cooler days🍁🍂 I wore the kimono as a bathing suit cover up and with a tank and shorts all Summer long. I love it works perfect for a Fall transition piece.

Summer Tank tops are perfect for layering with your favorite cardigans, paired with distressed jeans and leopard flats!
Tip: if you don’t own leopard shoes…. buy a pair, and treat them like a neutral ! They go with everything ❤️
Tank similar {here}
Jeans similar {here} {here}
Cardigan similar {here} {here}
Shoes similar {here} {here} Here}
hat similar {here}

AC/DC was my ring tone on my phone for years, it made my oldest fall in love with the band as well!
Rocker tees are one of my favorite things and I love layering over them for Fall🍂🍁 with your favorite blazer, leather jacket, sweater cardigan!
Some of my Favorite Rocker tee brand
similar {here} and similar {here}
Jeans similar{here }
Leather jacket similar {here}
Shoes similar {here}
Great cardigan {here}
Blazer {here}

Olive palm pants paired with a denim shirt and layered with a long lightweight cardigan! Still warm enough to wear your wedges and accessorize with fall toned accessories.
palm pants similar {here}
cardigan similar {here}
denim shirt similar {here}
wedges {here}
sunglasses {here} Bag {here} Belt Here Similar {here} Bracelets Similar {here} {here} {here} Ring similar {here}

Taking your Summer printed tops in to fall by pairing with jeans instead of shorts or skirt. Layer with a sweater! I love that in the Fall you can still wear your Summer wedges (I like to wear sandals as long as I can) but my tip would be accessorize with more Fall toned jewelry. My palm leaf top similar {here}
jeans similar {here}
wedges {here}
a fab cardigan {here}

Fall a season almost everyone I know adores, specially after a supper hot summer like this one. I wanted to share with you some tips to dressing for the cooler temperatures without breaking the bank. I love transitioning summer clothing into your fall wardrobe. It helps your wallet as well. Tank tops can be used for layering under your favorite plaid button up or denim shirt and when temperatures drop even lower you can add a sweater or jacket to that, for a cute multi layered look. Your summer floral prints work great with plaids and denim. Dresses can be worn with boots or booties, layered up with a blazer or denim jacket. I love that you can mix summer pastels with grey tones for a soft fall look and summer brights work with black and the bright oranges, yellow, and reds work with brown tones. As I stated above it’s best to wear your Fall accessories and jewelry and put your spring accessories and jewelry away for spring! Fall accessories help pull your fall look together when using clothing pieces from your summer wardrobe.

Some of my favorite fall looks have summer pieces layered up. I’ll be creating a bunch of flatlay outfits to help you get inspired this week and sharing in my instastories and saving to the highlights (flatlay) I know you guys love seeing flatlays and I hope you get great inspiration to create fun outfits of your own. So make sure to follow along on instagram this week.

Just a little update on my family, I know several of you have messaged me and have been praying. I want to say thank you so much it means the world you care so much to keep us in your prayers. My boys are healing, Hampton chipped his knee cap in the process of dislocating his knee and he’s doing physical therapy in hopes to avoid surgery and to get strong enough for ski season. Hudson is recovering from his appendectomy surgery and so far so good no infections. He started his Big boy job this last week and is getting into the swing of being an adult. My Step dad Steve is waiting results on the spot on his lung, kidney and liver. We should here something this week, on Tuesday he has a 5 hour biopsy on the lung. We welcome all the prayers you want to send in his direction. Thank you very much for taking time out of your day to stop by and read apart of my life, I appreciate you! OX, D’Arcy

This post may contain affiliate links, all options are my own and I only share things I truly love.

Self-employed, and I Why I sold my Boutique.

Self-employed, and I why I sold my Boutiques.

Feeling Getting real with you today, beautiful!

Boutique owner

If you have followed me, you know I owned my clothing boutiques for eight years. Some of you may have known I owned my home decor/ interiors and scrapbooking shop in California for ten years before moving to Utah.

Yes, self-employed for 21 years! ( 3 years of doing interior design freelance work) Most of you have asked why to sell. You are living a lot of woman’s dreams, owning a boutique.

Getting Real

Well, I am getting real with you! Being a Girl Boss and being self-employed is terrific in many ways and just as stressful in others. While I loved almost every minute of it…I was tired!

Tired of working 70-80 hours a week, tired of missing dinner with my family, tired of paperwork & bills, and stressed at what the economy or even the weather would bring.

Daily to-do’s of owning your business isn’t just ordering pretty things, displaying them, and building beautiful relationships. However, that is all part of the joy.

There was so much joy in growing our little clothing boutique to 3 stores, a website, and even a monthly subscription box.

With each new adventure and growth came challenges and more of my time. Yes, I made great money….with even more significant sacrifices, and it was time to make some changes.

Selling the Boutiques

I didn’t know I would sell the shops or even what I would do next. I just knew I wanted a change and that blogging and social media were my new passion, and I would love to be able to spend time learning more about them. But owning a business takes up all of your time.

Then, through God’s plan, I was lucky enough that A name popped into my head, and I knew it was right, and the business was sold in 1 week! Now what…Starting over at 46 and taking on a new career? Scary, yet…exciting!

Sold

It’s been six months since I sold… Do I miss it? I can honestly say no!

Do I miss searching for the most fabulous items to bring in, doing all the displays, and creating a fun look for all my customers? Yes, I do; most of all, I miss all the fabulous customers and loyal clientele I enjoyed working with over the years.

I truly felt I had built a family, and I appreciate all those who supported me and our small business over the years. I will never forget so many happy faces and great conversations! so blessed to have had that time and support from all that shopped with us.

What the Future Holds

I appreciate those who follow my blog and social media, and I am grateful for those who shop my links and like or comment on posts, as this is how I am trying to build my next business.

I have had so many of you ask, “how you make money blogging and social media?” Think of it as a Marketing firm…I am marketing products and brands that I love! (will go into this in another post)

I want you to know I do not promote companies I don’t truly love or haven’t tested out. I want you to feel you can trust me ( just like at my shops) and that I want to share advice and idea’s that are helpful to you, just like I did at the stores.

So, you’re asking yourself, is she self-employed? Didn’t I want a change… Yes, I am still self-employed ( I have been trying to get a job while building this new adventure, more on that next!)

What is different

Yes, I wanted a change (remember… I enjoyed the time to try this new love of blogging and social media). Owning a storefront differs from working from home; even though you must be dedicated, you can schedule your work time around your family time. I don’t have to be open 10-6 and then stay at the shop until 9 or 10 pm to get everything I need to do that day!

Do you want to open a boutique? do you want me to do a post on tips, what you need, or how to do it?)

So, in short, it means the world that you stopped to read this blog post, liked a Facebook or Instagram post or followed youtube; it helps my rating more than I could ever explain.

A little explanation of one of the ways I make money

I receive a tiny percentage when you shop my links. On my blog or posting & sharing discount codes, shopping my Liketoknowit, and Amazon Storefront. This is at no cost to you.

Follow my Like to know it where you can shop my looks, get sales alerts, see app-only content, and get inspiration.

I also have an Amazon Store Front. You’ll find curated shopping boards, product reviews, and my picks.

Helping women look and feel good at any age.

I appreciate all of your support, and if you ever have a question on styling, a product, or interiors, comment below or email me, and I will try to help you in any way I can. My goal is to help women look and feel good at any age.

This was why I created Dear Darcy, a play on Dear Abby; I want to help & share!

The Job hunt

As for looking for a new job or career at 46 years old and the last 21 years of being self-employed, it has been one crazy & complex process!! AND… if I hear one more time, I am “overqualified”…I want to scream!!! While building this new business and learning a ton, It will be a while until I can make a living to support my spending habits!

LOL, I was hoping to start a new career with a 401k…hehe, No, really, I want to branch out and try something different but still be creative! At first, I started looking at management positions, not focusing on creativity, and Boy…that was a huge mistake!!!

Taken a Job I thought I wanted

I took a job that was a massive 2 1/2 month process to get hired and so stressful ( that should have been a clue!) It was nothing like the position I thought I signed up for! I never felt so out of place and realized I couldn’t use any of my strengths!

This was a great lesson, and I realized I need a job where I can be creative, deal with people, use my strengths, and still have time to blog: a full-time job, 40 hours a week instead of 70. I am on the hunt…I had a couple of interviews last week, and I’ll keep you posted.

Meanwhile, if you need help decorating your home, staging a house, marketing something, planning a party, styling your outfits, or organizing your closet… I am your girl; contact me:). If you hear of a great job that you think I’d be great for, please message me.

I hope this answered some of your questions and gave you insight into why I did what I did and what I am doing now! Again thank you so much for your support and for following along on my journey.

Top {Anthropoligy} sold out, belt {Hermes} sold out, Jeans {kut from the Kloth} shoes {Gianni Bini} Similar here

Whether you are a Girl boss or a Mom boss, I hope you enjoy your work. If not, I have inspired you to start over at any age!

My Smile Journey With Smile Direct Club

Smile Direct impression kit. From the impression,Smile Direct generates 3d model of your teeth to begin building your smile.

Smile Direct Aligner molding kit.

Smile Direct at home kit!
Invisible aligner kit with 5 months of aligners.

Invisible Aligner tray’s and holder.

I couldn’t be happier to start my smile journey with Smile Direct Club. I never wore braces and was always lucky to have naturally straight teeth. As I have aged my two top teeth have turned in a touch and my one bottom tooth has moved back. Most people wouldn’t notice, but it’s been bugging me for the last couple years and I really didn’t want to do the whole braces thing at 46! I looked into other invisible liner companies and it was so expensive, I decided to hold off. Then to my delight, Smile Direct contacted me and said I’d be a great candidate for their invisible aligners and would I want to work with them! YES….Yes please! So you could see why, I couldn’t be happier!

I started the processes about 2 1/2 months ago, without the hassle of appointments and metal braces, my impression kit arrived in the mail. It was so easy to take the impressions and send the molds back to Smile Direct in the pre-paid box. A couple weeks later my invisible aligner box set arrived. I say “box set” because it came with everything you need for 5 months to have a straighter smile, all in 1 box! This kit is so easy, everything is labeled, organized and they even send you a reminder email on the day you need to changed your aligner. You change your aligner’s monthly and wear a new one on week 1 & 2 then week 3 & 4 you wear the same one, until you start a new month.

I am already noticing a big difference two and half months in. My top teeth have become not as angled and my bottom tooth has really moved forward. I can’t wait to share with you my end results, in about 3 months.

Just a little note: I haven’t experienced any pain in this process, yet my teeth feel a little strange, sometimes and I have been told this is normal.

Do you need a little help with you teeth and want to have a confident smile? Smile Direct is affordable and even more affordable if you use my code.

https://smiledirectclub.com/DARCYSMILES for 50% off your own at-home kit or a free scan in a SmileShop markets! (we have one in Sugar House Utah!)

I hope you have a beautiful weekend! Ox, D’Arcy

This post was a collaboration with Smile Direct and may contain affiliate links. All opinions are my own. I only promote brands that I truly love and believe in! Thank you for you support.

Perfect look’s for Spring that can take you into Summer!

Sharing fun looks today on Fox13 The Place, that can take you from Spring to Summer with easy. (I will share link to watch later today) Each outfit is from one of my favorite new shopping sites Standards and Practices. A great company that carries on trend and great quality clothes for woman size 0-22. If you visit their site

Standards and Practices you can also sign up to get 25% off your first order!

Accessorizing the looks! A couple of years ago, we had statement necklace as a huge trend….Now we have statement earrings! They started showing up last Spring, Now it’s a must have item to give your outfit that finishing touch. Trending everywhere, we’re seeing large earrings in tassel’s, fringe, beaded, metals and acrylic. I’ve picked some favorites to pair with today’s outfit’s, from Victor and Mark! I hope you enjoy todays show and blog post!

This racerback jumpsuit is crafted from a stunning red floral graphic print chiffon. The playful capri romper ties as a halter around the neck,and defines your figure with a waist tie. With a cropped length,the legs feature split front hems, with the splits reaching up to the knee for a fun additional detail.

For today’s model Kjirstin, I paired this cute romper with these great statement earrings by Victor and Marc, giving this look the finishing touch. This outfit can be worn with heals like in photo or with a cute wedge like I paired with on today’s Fox13 The Place, fashion segment. This look is a perfect look for a Garden wedding, Lunch with the girls or even a baby shower.

Sangria red Tassel Earring by Victor and Marc help finish off this darling outfit! I have been obsessing over their earrings lately! ( I think I have 6 or so pairs now!) You can only shop this little mama owned business on instagram here. Here’s a fun little fact about these earrings= Victor and Marc Loved being apart of the collaboration with the super talented and creative singer/songwriter/fashion blogger and writer @ariellepaul .Head over to her blog to check out her write up on the magical pairing of @victorandmarc and @maisonkemang. Their handbags are all handmade and beautifully unique – the perfect combo with Victor and Marc statement jewels.

This denim chambray dress is sexy, casual, and feminine. Ashley is a high-low racerback dress with thin spaghetti straps. The midi dress is made from comfortable soft tencel in a wash that’s slightly faded around the seams for a cool, lived-in look. The high-low back gives the classic jean dress a modern silhouette that moves and flows when you walk. Easy to Wear; Pull over your head and go. Includes navy chiffon lining.

The Ashley dress that I styled cute Britney in for today’s Fox13 Segment is a perfect dress to wear all Spring & Summer. For casual shopping day’s or running kids around while looking chic and comfortable. I dresses it up today with fun tassel statement earrings by Victor and Mark (shown below.) This cute look can be worn with flip flops, booties or a wedge sandal, depending on the look & comfort your wanting!

M I L A || A stunning mix of #tassels and #beads. Faux velvet stud with gold trimmings. A must have this summer season or Euro summer escape. Shop here Victor and Marc

This white ponte midi dress is sophisticated for the workwear and playful enough for after hours. Elegant and bright, this sleeveless sheath dress features a longer back with back zip and scoop neckline. The sleeveless dress is slightly longer in the back for asymmetrical hemline that’s both feminine and current.

I loved this cute cream Horseshoe or wishbone dress, perfect for work or a wedding shower. Wishing I would have had it for my Son’s college graduation! You really will get a lot of use out of this cute and easy to wear dress. I paired it for today’s segment with my favorite denim jacket to show you can dress it down and make it more casual, for a day date or a spring evening. I was so excited to find these perfect matching horseshoe acrylic earrings, mimics the design of the dress perfect! (crazy that their named Hudson, like my oldest son!)

H U D S O N :: NEW to Victor and Marc. #Geometric #acrylic stud with horseshoe shape drop. Both simple and bold for whatever statement you want to make! Comes in black, white, yellow

Ciara bag is perfect for Spring and Summer. Pairs perfectly with all 3 of these looks. This seasons must have straw circle bag, is a great bag to take from lunch to the pool! This fun company The Bagtique has so many cute bags for Spring and Summer, I really am purchasing way to many bags and clutches!

I love clothing that you can wear for multiple seasons and really feel like your getting your money’s worth in quality and style. Shopping Standards and Practices gives you just that! These 3 looks have very different feels and are great for many of life’s event through Spring and Summer, dress them up or down with your shoes and accessories. Layer them up for a chilly Spring day or Summer night! I hope you enjoyed today’s post and if you didn’t catch the segment on Fox13 The Place, I’ll post it here later today!

Fox13 The place Fashion Segment view here…..

Do you have a fashion styling question or idea you would like me to share on the show? leave a comment and I’ll try my hardest to help you out!

Enjoy you day beautiful’s! OX, D’Arcy

This post was a collaboration with Standards & Practices and Victor and Marc and may contain affiliate links. All opinions are my own. I only promote brands that I truly love and believe in! Thank you for the support!

8 must have Spring items! Watch my Fashion segment Today on @Fox13

leather Jacket sold out, white tee sold out similar here, Skirt here, flowers here, wedges here

8 Must have Spring items, Every woman needs to have in her Spring wardrobe! I added a couple of choices so my Shopping list is 13 items 1.| Blessed Tee 2.| HAPPY tee 3.| Chambray Skirt 4.|Utah Tee 5.|Sunset Tee 6.|Statement earrings 7.| Wedge 8.| Wedge 9. Ark Bag 10.|Ciara round bag 11.|Sunglasses 12.|Denim jacket 13.|White Jeans 8 Must have Spring Items, every woman needs to have in her Spring wardrobe! Great wardrobe builders and basics to dress up items you might all ready have in your closet. I love pieces that are on trend but aren’t really “trendy” by this I mean you can add any of these pieces to your wardrobe and have them to pull out for seasons to come. Classic white jeans, a denim jacket that is a perfect layering piece, a neutral bag in a fun shape, a basic chambray shirt, you really can’t go wrong! Add a fun bag & a statement earring to your closet favorites and it give your whole outfit the look of being all new! All 8 of these piece help build your wardrobe and give it a touch of Spring.
–Denim Skirt= Really this flattering skirt is chambray, soft and a flattering length that you can dress up or wear with tee shirt and flip flops. A great wardrobe staple piece. This company specializes in sizes 0-22 with on trend and great quality pieces. Standards and Practices, is one of my New favorite shopping sites.
–Graphic tees =Everyone loves a tee shirt and cute Graphic’s, sayings and state speciality tee’s are a big trend this spring! (This cute local Utah company) My Humble Threads makes the cutest specialty tee’s unique, soft and so cute! Get an extra 15% off with my code HEROES I love to support woman owned local companies, go check this one out! Items for babies to adults.
– Spring bags = You’ll love these bags and are seeing with every Spring outfit look… There On my Hottest trends ALERT, The Ciara round bag and the Ark Bag. Perfect for lunch or the beach you’ll use these bags every Spring and Summer! A great Straw or bamboo bag will always be in style! On sale Now at The Bagtique
–Statement earrings =bright and colorful to dress up any outfit, light weight and right on trend at an affordable price. On SALE now for $15 at The Bagtique
– Sunglasses =A great new pair of Sunglasses that go with everything and come in several colors Here
–White jeans =People get nervous about white jeans but they really do go with everything and look great on every shape. I personally think everyone should grab a pair!
– Denim jacket =Perfect for layering and a great basic! Kut from the Kloth is my favorite, as I have stated before here and here for more styling options. It’s fit is so flattering and tapers in at the waist for a slimming effect.
–Wedge sandal =easy to wear elongates the leg and looks great with jeans to skirts! It’s a must have trend again this year. I can stand in these all day long, so comfortable!

I will be talking more about these 8 must have Spring piece today on Fox13 The Place! Heres the link to view the show.

I hope you enjoyed my picks! Let me know if you grabbed any of the pieces or if you have a stying question! Ox, D’Arcy

All opinions are my own, I only promote brands that I truly love and believe in and this may contain affiliate links. Thank you for taking the time to read and for your support.

Let’s talk 40’s….Woman in our 40’s..Ready? It’s getting real!

Outfit details: Off the shoulder top on sale here, embroidered Jeans, Sandals sold out similar here, trench coat Similar here, sunglasses here, handbag sold out similar here

Ok, let’s get real…. You know I am 46 and age hasn’t really never mattered to me. My best friend Danielle is 10 days older then I am (yes..I enjoy saying that! hehe) We have enjoyed many of our Birthday’s together…. Sweet 16, our right to vote 18, Our mom’s taking us to gamble at 21 and with each one she was a little terrified of whats was to come. She really didn’t want to turn 25 (no real reason why?) Our 30th birthday I think was her hardest (my mom said that was her hardest too) I never had a thought of our age at any year and would just giggle at her and told her “we never look our age.. it’s all good” Did you have a birthday you dreaded? Then comes then one most people dread 40…Do you know our 40th Birthday she didn’t even flinch or say one comment about turning 40…Could it have been, we finally really get comfortable about who we are at 40?

I have enjoyed every age, each has it’s plus and minus. I remember my mom saying back when I was a teenager ” I loved being a teenager but you couldn’t pay me to go back!” At that time I thought why? you loved it, it’s such a fun time and carefree…. ( it’s different being a teenager now!) Now, as I am raising young adults, I get what she was saying. I also had great teenage years and I would not go back either. I have truly embraced every age and all the lessons and joy! BUT… and there is a BIG BUT…40’s has some of the Biggest changes…some good, some challenging and some funny if you can laugh at yourself!

After 40, some funny things that happen to you that doesn’t always get talked about. Some things are kind of funny ( like the arm reach out with the menu, that we teased our parents about!) My eye’s just started having issues this year. After 46 years of 20/20 vision my mom said “D’Arcy Michelle are you wearing readers?” yup, yup I am! Cute ones here🙂 for $6.99

At 40 I noticed I was gaining weight (I was lucky and never really had a weight issue, yes everyone always wants to lose 5-10 lbs in the Summer!) but really never anything more then that. At 40 I really was struggling and my Ob Gyn Dr. said I was fine and all my blood work was fine…but I didn’t feel fine? It wasn’t until I turned 43 that I knew I wasn’t fine and searched out a solution to help me! It was having my Hormones done by a hormone specialist, let me tell you it was life changing! ( I have talked more about this in prior post Here) our hormones change at different times for each individual but most of us notice a difference in our weight, hair, skin and tiredness starting at 40. Once my hormones were regulated I felt like my old self. Hormone changes is something more woman need to share with each other and know it’s ok to talk about! It’s 2018 we can share what’s going on with our bodies at any age!

After 40 our hair thins out, yet we get more on our FACE! What…. Nobody tell’s you you’ll need these…Unless you have a make-up artist sister! “Please someone, when I can’t see any more.. pluck the hair out of my mole!” This has become a joke with a few of my girlfriends!

Skin changes not just the tightness of our skin, or the creepiness but the dryness! In the last year my skin is so dry and I can’t seem to get enough moisturizer on my face & neck. (some night’s all slather on Vaseline!) For other’s it can be the on set of adult acne, REALLY? Didn’t we already go through that as teenagers? Here is a product my girlfriends with this issue are loving! I found these couple product’s really do help with dryness Here and Here. Also drinking a ton of water helps and I have been adding this to mine, but you do really have to have a morning and night beauty routine. No more going to bed with out washing your face. I love this product to remove make up!

Our kids are older ( depending on when you had them) Which gives us freedom and our lives back with our hubby’s…. But sadly there is no more Santa clause or egg hunts! This was our first year Santa didn’t come and our first Easter without having an egg hunt. Heartbreaking “No more little’s” Don’t get me wrong as sad as that sounds… I loved those day’s and will cherish the memories…but getting to actually lay on a lounger and drink a cocktail next to my husband by the pool is quite relaxing, not having to be in the water all day and hear “mommy look at me, watch me!” and turn into a wrinkled prune:) We’ll miss those day’s without “Littles” for the brief time before our children start to have children and we get to play with those darling grand babies….it could be a short window of time for some, so take joy in that time you get to have a little time for yourself and your spouse. See 40’s isn’t that bad!

40’s can bring your periods back like when you were a teenager!! Lucky they have a procedure called an ablation. Which makes it so you won’t ever have another period without effecting your hormones. I have had several girlfriends go this route and love it! “Couldn’t do that as a teenager!”

Sleeping changes in our 40’s and a lot of it has to do with our hormones…. Progesterone help’s us sleep and we started losing it in our 30’s…. If you have issues have them check that, before reaching for sleeping aids! (once my hormones were regulated…I started sleeping like a teenager again!)

Sex…Yes I said it! Sex can be the best you’ve ever had! See 40’s has some plus’s! I won’t go into detail…but this I am guessing has a big part to do with being comfortable in your own skin…you know who you are at 40….I am sure you can take where I am going with this from here:) wink!

Life over 40….I personally feel you know who you are in your 40’s and you can be in “your own skin” Nobody to impress, your career is on it’s way, your family is established, hopefully your marriage is strong and you’ve established your true friends and support system and if your really lucky your parents are still around and healthy to enjoy them too. Let’s face it as we age they do too.

Life will always have up’s and downs, twist and turns but really age is just a number…embrace it & laugh as you go….Just make sure to look Chic at every age:) WINK:) OX, D’Arcy

Are you experiencing something you didn’t know you would or think we should talk about? Comment below let’s help each other out:)

All opinions are my own, I am not a Doctor so please seek advice from a physician. I only promote brands that I truly love and believe in and this may contain affiliate links. Thank you for taking the time to read and for your support.