Thursday, March 31, 2016

Truth Thursday: Taking on the World of Blogging




















































Photos by: Tess Ware & Lay Marie 
Out details below 

Striped chambray Shirt: Thread & Supply {Dry Goods} | White Denim: Nordstrom | Phlox Collar Necklace: BaubleBar | Sunnies: Urban Outfitters | Purse: Similar here | Shoes: Old {similar} 

The first time I realized what my passion was, my "nitch," what truly intrigued me, was scrolling through the feeds of Cara Loren {the original Instagram fashion goddess}, Robyn Stewart, Jade Scott {A Spoonful of Style}, Alyson Haley {Sequence and Things}, and Emily Gemma {The Sweetest Thing}....just to name a few! 

I remember thinking this is it. I understand this. These women are so creative, fashionable, funny, and SO confident {not to mention ridiculously stunning}. I really wanted to give the whole blogging thing a shot......

Now rewind back four years...I remember sitting at a table with my girlfriends talking about our goals, what our passions were, and what drove us to want to achieve all of these things. Without hesitation I remember saying...."one day I want to have my own fashion blog. Not a place where I just talk about my purchases, certainly not to brag about what I own, or to encourage others to buy what I wear necessarily...but to truly create an outlet where I could talk about day to day life, my taste in clothes, honest to god struggles, small victories, and to connect with other great blogger babes." #sorryfortherunonsentences #buttruth

So why didn't I take my goal, my dream, my passion and make it into a blog that very next day? {2 years for that matter}. Four words... fear, intimidation, insecurities, and unenlightenment.  I was literally at a loss and couldn't even begin to imagine how others began such a confusing process. 

My advice? Blogging' ain't easy, but living out your passion is! Stay true to yourself and the other pieces will follow. Live a little more, connect with others, and if it doesn't bring fulfillment or joy in the least...get up, shrug it off, and move on! 

As always thanks for showing your love and support!

XOXO | Mandy Nicole






Tuesday, March 15, 2016

70's Vibes

Photos by: Tess Ware
Outfit details below
White Blouse: love this here | Flare denim: Old, similar here, here | Wool Hat: Maurices | Fringe Bag: Similar here and here {love} | Sunnies: Urban Outfitters | Cognac Wedges: JustFab | Earrings: BaubleBar  {on sale} Ring: Stella & Dot 

I love incorporating different eras into my wardrobe. My favorite? Defiantly the 70's with all its flare, denim EVERYTHING, bell sleeves, and fringe. You really can't go wrong style these fun pieces. Not to mention all in which are in style this season. 

The bonus to denim with a flare is it literally looks fantastic on any body shape. It's perfect for tall and lean, voluptuous and curvy, and or short and petite. 

Some styling advice when picking the perfect flare. For you gals who're long and lean stick with a longer inseam. This allows you to pair your denim with a cute wedge like these here and also gives you #legsfordays. 

For you voluptuous and curvy gals {flaunt it girl}! Stick to a shorter inseam to accentuate your curves and to draw attention to your best features. 

For you short and petite women or short and built {this is for my bestie who rocks it in the gym}! Stick to a shorter/regular inseam and a smaller flare. One that exposes your shoe of choice. This prevents a "frumpy" look and yet looks absolutely flattering! 

Happy Tuesday...forecast in Iowa is calling for more rain, send help!

XOXO | Mandy Nicole 


Friday, March 11, 2016

Fitness Fri-YAYs


Grey Cardigan Coat: Similar here | Zella leggings: Nordstrom | Halogen White Tee: Nordstrom {so soft} | Sneaks: Similar {love these here} | Earrings: sold out, similar here {obsessed} | Bag: similar | Karen Walker Sunnies: Shopbop | Bracelets: Stella & Dot

I'd be the first one to call my own bluff to say I workout religiously. However, on most days-weeks its something I do enjoy. My favorite? Kickboxing. #cardioqueen

There is no greater feeling then taking up yesterdays worries out on a bag. However, the same routine can become repetitive overtime. To keep myself motivated, I reward myself by purchasing a fun new workout tank or another pair of black leggings...because we all know black is slimming ;)

Speaking of leggings...these are my absolute favorite. Their not only fun, but sit mid-level, making them extra comfortable! You can score them here. I may have worn these three times in one week...but hey!

I love a look that screams "I just rolled out of bed" but that also has a nice touch of girly. Sometimes a girl needs her favorite pair of sneaks to take on the day. This is definitely a look that works for those days.

I have to give a shoutout to the best program, trainers, and persons out there. I've been completing several sessions of the same workout program Next Level Extreme Fitness for years and I have nothing but love for that program. The trainers are so incredibly helpful, the people are so nice and uplifting, and the energy is always high. Is it possible to be so in love with a program? If not, I am.... #sorrynotsorry. I am so thankful I found a program that makes me love being in the gym.

What are you favorite workouts? I'm always up for new suggestions!

XOXO | Mandy Nicole 


Monday, March 7, 2016

Darlin' Details

Photos by: Tess Ware
Outfit details below

Stripe Sweater: Nordstrom {sold out} similar here, here | Red Vest: Similar here | Denim: BLANKNYC | Hunter Boots: Nordstrom {high gloss} | Tory Burch Tote: Tradsey | Karen Walker Sunnies: Shopbop | Classic Monogram Necklace: Love Always {3XL, 18 inch chain, gold dipped} 

Winter, winter go away....

Not going to lie {note to self, never start a post with....not going to lie} but in all seriousness I love these style shots by Tess {thanks girl}! What I adore equally... is the color red. 

For Christmas my sister-in-law asked for gift ideas and I came across this cute online boutique Le Boutique Shop. I found this oh so amazing red quilted vest and instantly added it to my gift list. 

This particular one sold out, but come on..what do you expect? #joking. I linked a similar one above because I'm a firm believer a vest can dress up any ole' look. 

I added my favorite winter accessories {Hunter Boots} and touches of gold accents. I'm going to be real honest when I say I'm absolutely smitten by this Love Always Classic Monogram Necklace here, but I had concerns with it arriving slightly tarnished towards the edges. I still highly recommend it as it photographs well and looks great with anything {casual or dressy}. 

Enjoy your Monday! 

XOXO | Mandy Nicole 



Monday, February 29, 2016

Lady in Pink





Photos by: Tess Ware
{Outfit details below}

Black Jumpsuit: ASOS {similar here and love here} | Pink Shaggy Coat: Sold out {no similar, bummer}! | Necklace: BaubleBar "Showgirl Fringe Strand Necklace" | Bag: Similar here | Heels: here | Sunnies: Karen Walker | Lips: Sephora "Perfect Nude" 

If there's one thing in my closet that I'm drawn to...it's this amazing shaggy pink coat. It gives any look a city chic vibe and it adds the right amount of sass! 

I paired this simple black jumper {love} from Lulu's and added a pair of leopard heels. I've been searching what feels like a trillion years {#alwaysexaggerating}...and I found these beauties on sale! 

FYI: If you haven't noticed...the temperatures were amazing this weekend, but the wind and no sun have this girl bumming! 

Friday when Tess and I were getting some shots in {photos, not liquor ;p} the sun decided to make an appearance 10 minutes after wrapping up...{insert eye roll}.

The positive... {no more negative nancy} I learned some new "lango" ....so out of the loop curiosity of Tess's new assistant who did a phenomenal job shooting...you go girl! I will spare the embarrassment of it coming from my mouth...because lets be honest. I'm not so cool ;P. 

I hope y'all had a fabulous weekend and got a chance to watch some of the stunning looks from the 2016 Ocscars. I absolutely was swoon by Cate Blanchett. How classy....and that seafoam floral embellishment gown was stunning! 

thanks for stopping by!

xoxo | Mandy Nicole



Monday, February 22, 2016

10 Fun Facts






Photos by: Tess Ware
Outfit details below 

Wifey Tee: Ily Couture {A must} | Blazer: Similar here | Flannel: Similar here | Denim: BLANKNYC {so comfortable} | Booties: Similar here and here | Necklace: love this here | Specs: Burberry {super affordable} 

I want to apologize in advance for not always being on top of my A game. For those who read my blog posts religiously, thank you. I've said it before and girl, I'll say it again, thank you. 

I started Smitten By You back in September of 2014. My goal was to create an outlet for those interested in fashion. Since day 1 it has become so much more. I've made so many awesome connections, started to develop more of a passion for writing, and have become more confident.

So with that being said, I wanted to share 10 fun facts about the girl behind Smitten By You. Enjoy!

1. I'm a complete goof

Yes, a goof. Definition: A silly person. This side of me usually doesn't come out until I get to know a person a little more. I'm not afraid of looking silly, making unattractive faces, singing out loud/pretending I'm an opera singer, and showing off some pretty hideous dance moves.  My childhood friends can attest to this...Jenni? Jac? I make it a goal to not take situations too seriously, but I do have a serious side. However my goofy side tends to outshine me serious side. #Igetitfromdad

2. I'm a hopeless romantic 

I give credit to my devoted, loving, and romantic parents for raising us in such a caring environment. My mother continues to show such grace and gratitude after losing my father in a tragic car accident two years ago. I will always admire and strive to build a loving foundation such as theirs. I am beyond blessed to have been loved and witnessed such great affection between two people. My favorite romanic gesture? Holding hands and being kissed on my forehead {D has these two down ;p} #marriagegoals. 

3. I crave anything spicy 

Hot Cheetos, spicy queso, bloody mary {extra spicy}, sign me up. I live for spicy. D also enjoys things that are on the spicier side so it makes cooking {when I do} and ordering out easy. My new favorite thing is putting hot sauce on popcorn...I mean, it's not that unusual according to some of my favorite bloggers! If pregnancy cravings are anything like everyday cravings...I might need the hottest spices off the shelf. FYI: I'm not hinting towards anything ;) 

4.  I live for a great book or a Nicholas Sparks flick

I love sitting down to a great read. I recently just purchased "You before me" on my iPad. So far the book has been easy to get into. My favorite author hands down, in which I've mentioned on the blog a few times or 100, is Nicholas Sparks. Some may think his writing/storytelling is overrated, predictable, and or unrealistic..but I think of his writing as brilliant, creative, and hopeful. Many of his books are easy to relate to and while they end usually happy, sometimes sad, they carry a message that is far beyond "finding love." In my free time you will find me watching a Nicholas Sparks flick. No joke, I probably watch one of his movies at least 3-4x monthly. I would have to say hands down The Notebook and Safe Haven are my two favorites. The movie Endless Love is also my top pick. 

5. I care and fight hard for things/those I love

You could say I'm a person who cares more about how I make others feel and little about what others think about me. It hasn't always been that way but with age you grow to care a little less about what everyone else thinks about you. Don't get me wrong. I strive to be a thoughtful, respectful, and well- mannered women...but sometimes trying too impress and mold exactly to others liking is exhausting. I would say I'm a natural caregiver. If I believe in things, people, situations, or life events I fight for them. I like to be honest {overly sometimes}, gentle, and encouraging when it comes to those I love. I am totally that girl who will listen, provide advice {if asked}, and give honest/real opinions. I don't much care for politician debates, daily news, and depressing economic taboos. Why? Because I love to be optimistic in every way, shape, and form. In a world that can be so depressing, brutal, and discouraging...be alive and motive others to see the good in every little situation. 

6. I'm a crime junky 

"They tried to make me go to rehab...." I'm not talking CSI and Bones. I'm addicted to the real murder mysteries. Snapped, Cold Cases, I Survived, Monster in My Family, and Making a Murderer...to name a few. I may or may not believe I'm a legit detective. Y'all these shows are so additive and it's high priority right next to The Bachelor and Fixer Upper of course. #alwaysteamben #teamchipandjoanna

7. I fail miserably at spelling and math {till this day} 

In case you haven't noticed...{eye roll, lol} I wasn't the kid winning school spelling bees and I certainly wasn't invited to join TAG. So, spelling and math aren't my thing? I know the basics and it gets me by. Besides, auto correct can be a girls best friend {well sometimes}. If you correct me...I'll most likely laugh it off because it's bound to happen. 

8. I get legit "hangry" 

This term deserves a spot in the worlds dictionary...if it doesn't already exist. For now this definition is spot on. Hangry: a state of anger caused by lack of food; hunger causing a negative change in emotional state. Raise your hands in the air! D always jokes there are 3 things that can keep me happy. 1. Food 2. Sleep. 3. Food. So not true...well maybe a little. 

9. I'm slightly OCD: Slightly 

I enjoy cleaning, organizing, and keeping things picked up. However, there's a side of me that you could call complete organized chaos. When it comes to work, everything is fast pace. It's not always easy keeping things organized so I have notes laying everywhere. Thank the lord for a good memory and fast fingers..or this girl would be in some serious trouble. A lot like my office space...sometimes my house goes through similar situations. We have what is called the "wedding/packages/miscellaneous" room in our house. I try to show that room some loving at least once a week to make sure it doesn't get too out of hand. #itsnotaproblemuntilyoucan'tfindanything #right?

10. My mother is my best friend 

Hands down this is 100% accurate. My mom has and will always be my biggest fan/best friend. My mama and I live about 45 minutes away from each other and always plan weekly shopping, eating, wine/movie nights as often as possible. If someone would've asked me who my best friend would be at the age of 5 I probably wouldn't have guessed my mama, but boy was I wrong. Fun fact: my mom joined me and some of my closes friends for my bachelorette party and was an absolute blast. I can only hope one day I will be as loving, kind, selfless, and cool as my mom! 

Thanks for stopping by and I hope you enjoyed todays post!

xoxo | Mandy Nicole 



Sunday, February 21, 2016

Spring Fling

Spring Fling




1. | 2. | 3. | 4. | 5. | 6.| 

This weekends temps had this girl excited for spring. While I was stuck inside most of the weekend, watching state wrestling, without a phone...{not going to lie it was actually nice} I was able to sneak off to the mall with my sister-in-law.

I think it's safe to say we both did some {reasonable} damage. I mean we deserve it! I can't wait to share a blog post on some of the new beauty products I recently purchased.

I've been obsessing over this Bobbi Brown Blush {pastel pink} and decided to give it a try. I also adore this Mac lip shade in "Candy Yum Yum."

I can't wait to pack away all my winter sweaters and pull out all my spring clothing. I'm looking forward to wearing pastels, printed ankle pants, and fun sandals like these Elina Linardaki {currently on my wish list}.

I'm dying over how cute and versatile this Phlox Collar necklace is. I couldn't resist. This necklace can be worn with a plain white Tee for a more casual look or pairs nicely with this Vince Camuto "Off the Shoulder" blouse.

Hope you got out and enjoyed your favorite actives this weekend! I'm hoping this weather is here to stay {for awhile at least} ;)

xoxo | Mandy Nicole 






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