The Mall at Rockingham Park

 

 

Nude huded shoes are at the top of my wish list these days. There's just something classy about a pair of nude pumps.  You can wear them anywhere and they're flattering to the max.

Think about it: if you're wearing an outfit that shows off your legs, pairing it with nude shoes elongates the legs, making them look longer.  That's a pretty huge deal--especially when you're 5ft tall like me!

I found these fabulous Jordyn T-Strap Pumps at Payless at the Mall at Rockingham Park and I'm completely and utterly in love with them.

I really like the retro vibe that the heels offer up. They're definitely not going out of style anytime soon. The 3 1/2" heel is super fabulous as well. It's not too high, yet is definitely high enough to add height to your look. The strap also makes walking around a bit easier than if you were to purchase a normal pair of pumps.

The strap is adjustable (another plus!), so all you ladies should be able to find a size that works for you. 

The heels come in a few different colors: pink/nude (pictured), yellow, mint, and black. Honestly? It's worth buying in a few different colors.  The mint color is perfect for a daytime summer event, while the black ones are great for a night out.

And it doesn't hurt that each pair is a mere $26.99!
 

Tweet me @SassyAlana and check out more of my sassy ramblings at Sassy-Fashionista.com.

As the Style Setter for the Mall at Rockingham Park, I was so excited to join in on the fun for their Mom's Nite Out event! This was a special night for moms everywhere, in honor of Mother's Day. My own mother is one of my style icons, so spending an evening celebrating moms was utterly fantastic.

It was my first event officially as the Style Setter and I absolutely loved it.  A large part of the mall was sectioned off and filled with oodles of vendors giving away tons of free goodies--and really, what's no to love about that?! I even got in on that myself and ended up bringing home a lovely bag stuffed with cute doodads.

There were also crazy raffles going on throughout the night for some pretty awesome prizes, including tickets to a Jon Bon Jovi concert!

Many stores joined in by giving free beauty services. A few of the stores included were Indra Salon, Upgrades Hair and Tanning Salon, Lord & Taylor (who just so happened to have some amazing beauty products out!), BareMinerals by Bare Escentuals, LUSH Cosmetics, and tons more.

The whole event was lots of fun and I encourage everyone to attend all of the events that the Mall at Rockingham Park has going on in the future. I'll be posting about them here, but be sure to "like" their facebook page to hear about everything the mall has going on.

If you're still a bit stuck on what to get your mom for Mother's Day (even if it's a little belated), check out the watches at Lord & Taylor. They have a wide variety, and the prices are great. My personal fave? The pictured Jolie Ladies? Green Enamel & Crystal Watch. The color is perfect for the season, and watches are great accessories to have. This one is currently on sale for under $40.

In closing, here's a super cute pic (courtesy of Microsoft) of the mall's marketing assistant, Lindsey, and myself!

 

Too adorable, right?! If you were at the event, it was great to see you, and if not, I hope to see you at the next one! For more info, be sure to check out the mall's facebook page.

 

Father's Day is rapidly approaching, so it's definitely time to start shopping for the big day! 

Personally, my dad is fantastic (that's him with me in the picture above). The best lesson he's ever taught me is to "remember my ABCs--Always Be Cool". Pretty great words of wisdom, especially in times of stress!  I'm sure you ladies all have an awesome dad (or father figure) in your life who has affected you as much as mine has.  So celebrating them is the least we can do.

That said, shopping for men is crazily difficult. I usually end up buying something that is totally random and super cliché--like a tie.  But not this year! Luckily, I found a bunch of great gifts at the Mall at Rockingham Park. Here's a few of my faves:

 

First up is this incredibly chic Traditional Shaving Gift Set from The Art of Shaving. They actually have a ton of great man-friendly gifts, so stop in to check it all out.  This particular set is perfect for a guy who likes to pamper himself a bit. And trust me--most guys like to be pampered, whether they admit it or not. The kit is packed with all the shaving essentials: Pre-Shave Oil, Shaving Cream, After-Shave Balm, a Fusion Black Razor, a Pure Black Shaving Brush, and a cool Compact Shaving Stand.  It's literally everything you could possibly need to shave in one convenient set.  You can purchase the gift in a few different scents (Lavender, Lemon, Sandalwood, and even Unscented) for $236.

 

Probably the most unique gift out there, How to be a Man is hilarious and a great read.  It's not all jokes, though.  The book is actually full of helpful tips for men.  Topics include things like guy-style advice, grooming tips, how to accessorize, and even how to fight like a man! What more could you possibly want from a book?! This should be on all coffee tables everywhere and no man should be without a copy. You can get this amazing book at J.Crew for $28.

 

You can't go wrong with some stylish shades. Sunglasses are something that everyone really needs, and guys tend to forget purchasing a pair for themselves before it's too late and they're driving in the blazing sun, squinting like a lunatic.  Save your dad the trouble and get him these Ian Sunglasses from Banana Republic. Ian is actually my dad's name, so I might be a little biased over this pair, but I think they're the perfect gift.  Each pair is $98.

 

Want to stay with something a bit more traditional and classic? This Mougin & Piquard for J.Crew Chronograph Watch is the way to go. A watch like this never goes out of style, and really everyone needs a watch.  It's super versatile; your dad can wear it with jeans and a t-shirt to dress it down, or wear it with a fancy suit for a night out! Each watch is actually hand assembled in Switzerland using Swiss quartz movements (and you won't find them anywhere but here). Get one for $695. A little low on funds? take a jaunt to JCPenney for some more affordable options.

Hope that helps! Happy shopping!

 

Tweet me @SassyAlana and check me out at Sassy-Fashionista.com.

 

Everyone looks better with a tan. There's just something about it that looks healthy. Unfortunately, conventional tanning is horrible for your skin. There are so many health risks that go along with tanning, and it simply isn't worth it.

That said, you can look like you've just come from the beach in seconds without any worry. Being ridiculously pale myself, I've tried almost every sunless tanning product out there. All my fave products can actually be found at Victoria's Secret.  Not only do the products do a great job, they also smell fabulous!

Though their entire Beach Sexy collection is amazing, there are two products that I use almost daily. The Instant Bronzing Tinted Body Spray and the Instant Bronzing Shimmer Powder are both within reach when I step out of the shower.

If I had to choose only one body product to use for the rest of my life, the Tinted Body Spray would be it. I always apply it after showering because that's the time when your skin  absorbs best. In fact, you should always apply any lotion, or other body product, after showering for the same reason. What I love most about this product is how easy the application is. All you do is spray it all over your bod, blend a little if needed, and you're good to go! The continuous spray makes for easy, streak-free application and the airbrush finish helps blur the look of imperfections, like uneven skin tone or texture. Love it! Each bottle is $15. 

 

The Shimmer Powder is my little secret weapon. I'm always attracted to anything that contains shimmer. I'm a glitzy gal, what can I say? The bronzer contains radiant mica, which leaves skin looking sun-kissed and sexy in one quick sweep! The powder-filled brush is great for easy application. You can apply this stuff virtually anywhere; it's perfect for décolleté, shoulders, arms and legs.  This is one product that can deliver a head-to-toe glamorous glow. The brush is $24.
 

Both products are safer than the harm your skin can endure from harsh tanning, and the result is even more gorgeous!  Make sure to check out Victoria's Secret's entire Beach Sexy collection at the Mall at Rockingham Park! 

 

Tweet me @SassyAlana and check me out at Sassy-Fashionista.com.

 

With so many trends floating around, it’s easy to find yourself purchasing heaps of accessories that you don’t need, and will never end up wearing (like that neon pink sequined tote that looked oh so fab in the store). Trends are fabulous and fun, but there are also a few basics that all ladies should have--and the best part is, they never go out of style!   You can find these items no matter what your budget is.  The Mall at Rockingham Park has some simply amazing stores that can get you started on your classic accessory collection ASAP.     Pearls: They go with every single outfit you could possibly dream up, and have the power to make any outfit look classy. Lord & Taylor has this gorgeous necklace for $45.    

 

A pair of diamond (or faux diamond) studs: These can dress up any outfit and just so happen to look great on everyone. Personally, I even go as far as having “emergency” studs in my office and handbag at all times in case I have a style crisis. Macy's has these fantastic 10k White Gold Round-Cut Diamond Stud Earrings on sale for about $71.  Not looking to spend that much? They also have some faux pairs that are as low as $10! 

              A big bright scarf: Scarves can add a pop of color instantly to any outfit. You can wear them around your neck, or tie them onto your handbag too for a unique touch (which I’m a huge fan of doing). Try to find one that is lightweight so you can wear it year-round. Forever21 is the place to go for spectacular scarves.  This Abstract Geo Scarf is a mere $8.80!
                A structured bag: In a medium size, a sturdy bag will be your best friend. Basic black will do, but I personally go for colors like navy, or even a bright yellow if I'm feeling bold. Though colors may sound a bit scary, you’ll be surprised at how much use you can get out of a brighter-hued bag, and how many outfits it can actually compliment. This great Edie Purse from J. Crew is exactly what I'm talking about. The navy color is absolutely perfect for any season.  Though the price is a little steep at $238, this is def a bag that will never go out of style. Totally worth it.         Big sunglasses: Not only do they help block out the sun, they help you beat the aging game. One of the top reasons for wrinkles around the eye is from squinting. So wearing sunglasses can definitely help with that. Plus they just look super chic. Think Audrey Hepburn in Breakfast at Tiffany’s when picking out a pair. Garage has this super cute pair for under $9! Huzzah!
    Once you have these basics, you’ll be ready for anything that comes your way. Happy shopping!

 

  This season, peach-hued makeup is all over the place. It's a look that flatters most skin tones and is very simple to achieve.   At the Mall at Rockingham Park, the amazing bareMinerals store offers up some great peach makeup and I think it's safe to say that I'm beyond obsessed!   Some of the key products are on sale in an adorable Addicted to Peach set.  It's a super convenient way to give the trend a try without blindly trying to figure out how to approach wearing peach.  It's also a really great way to try out the brand if you aren't familiar with the bareMinerals product line (which is ridiculously amazing).   The limited edition bundle includes the basic products that are necessary to give the pretty peach look a go.  Here's what comes in each set:

• READY Eyeshadow 2.0 The Guilty Pleasures featuring Shh... & Yes Please (apricot nectar/cinnamon brown shimmer) 
• Small Temptation Eyecolor (glistening nude peach) 
• Flawless Definition Mascara in Black
• Sweet Peach Radiance All-Over Face Color (golden peach glow) 
• Marvelous Moxie Lipgloss in Stylista (vivid peach) 

It also comes with a good size makeup bag with a lovely golden peach metallic finish. I'm a huge sucker for makeup bags and this one is a gorgey addition to my rapidly growing collection.   All of the products work amazingly well--not really a surprise since bareMinerals always delivers fabulous makeup.  If I had to pick my fave product in the set, it'd be The Sweet Peach Radiance All-Over Face Color.  It's just so pretty! The color is a nice, flattering, mid-tone peach with a slightly shimmery (not a disco party glittery) finish. It's a product that I can see myself using a lot. And because it's so highly pigmented, I know that it will last for months.   I also want to take a second to mention how much I love the Marvelous Moxie Lipgloss in Stylista. Even though I've admitted to owning hundreds of lip products, I've always loved this particular gloss and own it in a few different colors. That said, this particular color is a little intimidating at first glance.  In the tube, it appears to be almost a scary bright orange color. However, on the lips, it's nice and sheer so it just gives a pretty peachy glow. It's officially made its way into my purse and I haven't gone a day without using it since trying it.   The entire set is just such an incredible deal! You can purchase the collection at the Mall at Rockingham Park's bareMinerals store for $49. Considering that a READY 2.0 shadow set retails for $20, a Marvelous Moxie gloss goes for $18, and a Radiance All-Over Face Color retails for $19 (a total of $57 right there), and you still get an additional two products, it's an amazing value. Personally, I know that I'll be using every single item in the kit for the entire season.  And I'm pretty sure that if you give it a try, you'll fall in love with it as much as I have.   So, take a trip to the store and check out the set while it's still available! The staff is super friendly and will answer any questions you might have.    Stay fabulous!   Tweet me @SassyAlana and check me out at Sassy-Fashionista.com.

Summertime is rapidly approaching--even in New England we've had a few beachy days! That means it's time to find a fab bathing suit.  Luckily, the Mall at Rockingham Park is the place to find what you're looking for.

  I know, I know.  It can be quite daunting to find the perfect suit. I usually spend weeks trying to find something that flatters my curvy shape.  That said, I know for a fact that loads of ladies have the same problem that I do. And there are some tips to follow when shopping for a suit that flatters your body type.     Straight or Athletic Look for suits with curves of their own. Bra-inspired tops with boning, padding, feminine details (like an elegant ruffle or a well-placed bow) go a long way in creating a curvy impression. If you have this body type, you can generally get away with wearing virtually anything. This suit is about $100. Super cute, right?!     Pear or Bottom-Heavy Keep the focus on the top half of your body with details like shirring, boning, or pattern on the top half only. Avoid ruffles or other details on the bottom.  A padded sweetheart or simple bandeau top adds volume and balances out a heavier bottom. How fabulous is this bandeau, embellished suit? You can get one for $137.     Apple shape or Wide Middle Look for sophisticated one-shoulder, V-neck, or sweetheart one-piece suits. You can also try a swim dress--don't worry, they've come a long way over the years, and you can def find some that are not grandma-esque.  If you do end up chooseing a swim dress, look for a sleek fit through the body and a slightly flared skirt. Well-placed shirring and ruching create shape while an overall print or pattern makes the eye glide unseeing over any lumps or bumps.  The pictured swimdress is super adorable and is $94.     Inverted triangle or Top-Heavy Choose wide straps over skinny ones for best support and comfort.  Make sure to look for separates to get the best fit for both top and bottom or a one-piece that offers suitable support.  A modest V-neck with a halter style strap visually reduces volume. Avoid bandeaus at all costs. This perfectly flattering tankini is about $150.   Be sure to check out Lord & Taylor at the Mall at Rockingham Park.  They've got a great selection of bathing suits (all of the pictured suits are from the store).  Happy shopping!

Now that beach time is here (as far as I'm concerned) I thought it'd be a good time to make sure that our beach bags are up to par. I usually carry around tons of stuff with me when going to the beach: sunglasses, the latest Cosmopolitan, a back-up bikini...the list goes on. But there are a few things that are absolutely needed in each and every beach bag out there!

Of course, you first have to start with the actual beach bag. Shopping for bags is my obsession. I found this super cute Rail and Wharf 12-Hour Tote from J.Crew for $68.  It's the perfect size for toting around everything you could possibly need and it comes in a fabulous pink hue! Win-win!

Once you have the bag covered, it's time to fill it up! Here are a few things I think every gal should have in her beach bag at all times:

 

1) Sunscreen for your face. Sephora has a ton of great options. Lately I've been loving Clinique's Moisture Surge CC Cream SPF 30. Not only does it protect your face from the sun, it does oodles of other things too! You can count on this product to smooth your complexion and create an amazing "glow from within" radiance. It also corrects lots of skin concerns like dullness, sallowness, and redness.  Though the cream is moisturizing, it's also oil-free and lightweight so it's perfect for all skin types. You can get a tube for $35.   2) Body sun screen. This sounds pretty obvious, but it's very important to protect your skin when you're planning on spending a day in the sun. Neutrogena Wet Skin Sunblock Spray SPF 85+ is amazing! It's a new product that promises to give full strength protection even on wet or sweaty skin. It's completely waterproof and is fab for any type of skin out there. I particularly like the fact that it's a spray because that leaves less room for error. A few spritzes and you're good to go!  CVS carries it for under $10.   3) A small palette of makeup is always a good idea. Sephora's the place to go; they've got bunches of adorable palettes. The latest Aqualillies for Tarte Amazonian Clay Palette is my latest fave. I'd get it simply because the compact is so cute, but the gorge eye and cheek products are perfect for the beach side. All of the makeup included is totally waterproof and the colors work on everyone. Each palette is $38.   4) Last, but not least, make sure to pack a couple bottles of water to keep yourself hydrated, and help your skin look fabbity fabulous!

 

Tweet me @SassyAlana and check me out at Sassy-Fashionista.com.

Every summer, the nautical look is in without fail. It's an easy trend to wear, and it looks fabulous on everyone. I put together a quick and simple nautical look with some fab fashion pieces you can find at The Mall at Rockingham Park.  

Here's what I included in the outfit:

1.) Striped Bustier Dress, Garage $26.09 - This dress is super flattering. It's the focal point of the outfit. I love the fact that it's so simple, yet has some unique details that make it look much more expensive than it actually is. The dress is thin, so you can wear it even when it's crazily hot outside. If you only buy one nautical-esque product, this should be it!

2.) Candy Rondelle Bracelet, Banana Republic $29.50 - The perfect bracelet to take the dress up a notch. The fact that it's elastic is great because it allows it to fit multiple wrists. The details are gorgeous. It's also a great bracelet to pair with other bangles if you're looking for a more layered look. That said, it also looks amazing on its own.

3.) Brooklyn Stud Flap Clutch, Francesca's $38.00 - I love love love this clutch! It's gorgeous and totally pulls the look together. It also comes with an optional chain link shoulder strap for versatility. 

4.) Dani Heel, Coach $99.00 - These heels are just great to have in general. They work with nearly every outfit. I've been lusting after Coach's latest shoe collection and this pair is by far my fave. Because the shoes are neutral, they don't distract from the dress or other accessories.

5.) Knotted Rope Studs, Forever 21 $3.80 - I'm totally loving these studs. Again, they work with the outfit because they don't compete for attention--the dress is still the focal point.  And the price? You can't get much better than that!

Hope that helps, ladies! Happy shopping!!
 

Tweet me @SassyAlana and check out more of my sassy scribbles at Sassy-Fashionista.com.