Tag: Shopping

June 8, 2015

Father’s Day Gift Ideas

Father’s Day is June 21st!

Just like Mother’s Day, I’ll give you guys several Father’s Day gift ideas to bring a smile to any dad’s face!

Let’s get to it…

Here are 6 drool worthy gift ideas for the tech dad, the foodie dad, the dad to be, and even the sports loving dad and only one is over $100! That’s right, even with a small budget, dad can get an amazing gift.

[1.] For the extravagant dad in your life who just might need (or want) something extra, this chronograph eco-drive watch from Citizen is all the “extra” any guy would love to have. If you have the dollars to splurge (let’s face it, dad deserves it ya know) the $350 price tag on this sleek watch will be well spent. ~ Citizen $350

[2.] Sooo, there’s this cool site called ManCrates.com that offers pre-packaged gifts for men but they’re in wooden crates! I don’t think you can get more manly than a crate but the crates come with a crowbar to pry open the gift filled boxes.

I hear a Tim the Tool Man Taylor grunt in the background…

This specific ManCrate is actually a stuffed to the brim tactical bag made perfectly for soon-to-be dads or new father’s in mind. All of the things a guy could possibly need including a few gag items like a pacifier with a mustache! I may need to borrow someones baby just so I see it using the cute Mustachifier! ~ New Dad Tactical Bag $99

[3.] Gear Driven Iphone Docking Station? Yes please! Any guy out there would love this…a docking station for your smartphone which doubles as a valet for all of his necessary “things.” Oh! By the way, it’s handmade from wood and totally works like a gear! You can find this awesome gift on Etsy from KkornerInnovations ~ Wood Valet/Docking Station $78

[4.] Speaking of Etsy, Beardology has everything your dad or guy needs to keep his beard in check. If he’s gonna keep the scruffiness, he should at least make it look good! “The Man Set” includes natural oils, wash and balm for all of the hairs on his chinny chin chin. ~ Beardology $28

[5.] We’re heading back to ManCrates! This time, you can pick up the perfect crate for the dad who absolutely loves his sports and his beer. This one in particular is an NFL themed crate but they also have MLB and other sports themed crates made for the screaming fan in your living room! ~ NFL Bar Crate $89

[6.] What dad doesn’t love to eat tasty and flavorful food?! This set of sea salts includes unique flavors from all over the good ol’ USA! Purchase on the great site UncommonGoods.com where you can wander for hours looking at odd yet incredible gifts for any and everyone. ~ Flavors of America Sea Salt Set $60

Don’t let Dad go without the proper recognition of being “Dad of the year!”

April 21, 2015

Mother’s Day Gift Ideas

That’s right! Mother’s Day is Sunday May 10, 2015 and it’ll be here before you know it!

Mother’s only get one “special” day a year, can you believe that? Absolutely egregious if you ask me!

I’m not a mom (don’t you dare ask me about having kids…not happening, anywho…) I have the absolute greatest mom ever put on earth. Everyone says that but I truly mean it! She’s been with me during the hardest times of my life and always willing to be silly when we need a laugh.

That being said, moms deserve to be celebrated year round! So consider this a guide for the perfect gift that’ll bring the biggest smile to your moms face. Not to mention, a gift that will last more than one day! Below you’ll find Mother’s Day gift ideas for all price ranges. This should help you find the perfect gift for the special lady in your life.

Gift cards may seem like an easy way out but in actuality they are the best thing for the recipient. It allows your mom to spend it any way she likes and you won’t even need a gift receipt!

My favorite places to get and give gift cards are: Spafinder.com, Target, Kohls, Best Buy (hey, some moms are tech geeks too!) Sephora, and Amazon.

Stores that offer more than one brand or type of item is a great place to purchase a gift card, that way someone can get multiple “gifts” and they won’t feel the pressure to spend it all at once. A mother’s day treat because it’s the gift that keeps on giving!

Jewelry, of course, is a personal fave.

A mom can never have too many sparkly things, especially when those things are glittering gold or silver and maybe diamonds!

With tons of sales celebrating the start of spring and pre-Mother’s Day sales, jewelry is definitely within a reasonable grab for shoppers of all price ranges.

1. Ribbon Letter Monogram Necklace ~ $145 ~ Bauble Bar

2. Birthstones Bangle Bracelets ~ $28+ ~ Alex and Ani

3. Dew Drop Threader Earrings ~ $45 ~ Blue Nile

4. Kendra Scott Oval Statement Earrings ~ $60 ~ Nordstrom

The key to buying jewelry is to “Keep It Simple”…yes, it’s really that easy! Huge statement pieces are trending at the moment but if you want your mom to have something sparkly that she can wear regardless of the season, remember to find jewelry that has a classic look that can be worn with just about everything in her closet.

As with many special occasions, flowers and fruit baskets are great options too!

The flowers won’t last a lifetime and the fruit might not make it through the day but mom is sure to love them and that’s all that matters.

Think of giving a gift basket that has more than sweet edible nibbles such as a coffee lovers basket which includes a mug and coffee press. Find them at 1-800-Baskets & 1-800-Flowers or get creative and make your own…just stay away from the uncooked macaroni!

By now, you should have the hang of shopping for mom…simple, classic, and timeless are your go-to keywords. Those words go out the window if you know your mom and understands that she likes getting different kinds of gifts or perhaps not even wanting a gift at all. Just remember if you’re ordering a gift, be sure to place that order soon or you won’t have it delivered in time. You definitely don’t want her to think you forgot about her on this special day.

Get out there and go shopping! Happy gifting!

February 27, 2015

Spring Shopping Haul

I went shopping!

(again)

Everyone already knows, I’m a shopaholic, it’s serious. I should seek help…one day. Until that day comes, we all get to enjoy the fashionable or sometimes not so fashionable things that I bring home!

Lately, I’ve been slacking showing you guys the good things. Gonna have to blame that on having sinus surgery two months ago. By the way…that surgery was the single most painful thing I’ve ever been through in my entire life, nothing quite comes close.

Let’s move on to happier times, shall we?!

Instagram followers already have the jump on seeing this purchase (those lucky folks have it good!) You should follow too for some sneak peaks!

I had fun at Fashion To Figure!!

The plus size fashion goods:

1. Andy Tribal Print Jersey Dress – $32.50

2. Love Cutout Top – $22.50 (sold out)

3. Super Scuba A-line Skirt – $28.50

4. Tube tops (spring/summer layering essentials) – $6.50

5. Dolman Double Stripe Top – $22.50

Everything you see was purchased at Fashion To Figure a plus size clothing store made specifically for us curvy girls! They have great stuff and this was my first purchase from their site. As I was getting the links for the items I bought, I noticed their new items…

Heaven help me!

I wish they had a physical store here in Michigan because no one wants to continuously pay for shipping. Even though they offer *free shipping over $75* sometimes a chick just wants a cute dress and that doesn’t add $75. But alas, Fashion To Figure seems to almost ~~always~~ have a discount being offered, that’s how I grabbed all that stuff you see here!

Sooo, what do you think? Did I do good?

If you’re wondering…I wasn’t paid for this post nor am I affiliated with or work for FTF. Gotta give you guys the disclosures 🙂

August 11, 2014

Back To School–Plus Size Denim 3 Ways

Pretty sure you aren’t ready to hear the words “Back To School.”

Well, I won’t apologize just yet!

If you’re in college, thinking about what to wear to class is the last thing on your mind. You’re worrying about the cost of books, semester credits, and that weird thing your roommate does in her sleep. Side note, my college roommate was a sleepwalker and totally tried to smother me with a pillow one night…she managed to wake up before my untimely death. FYI: we’re still friends but that’s neither here nor there so I’ll just move right along 🙂

Is there a better way to take your mind off all of those stressful college things than clothes?! Personally, I think not! Previously, I created a “Back To School Bag Guide” for every type of student, better known as the “Bag” To School Guide for any budget. This year, I wanted help my fellow book hoarders with outfit ideas.

First up: DENIM! Plus size jeans (denim) don’t have to be expensive (just like everything else in the mall.) They’re perfect for dressing up, dressing down and anything in between.

Here’s three back to school looks for 2014.

Back To School Plus Size Denim: Look #1 by curvesandcoffee featuring plus size skinny leg jeans

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Back To School Denim: Look #2 by curvesandcoffee featuring an orange necklace

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Plus Size Back To School Denim: Look #3 by curvesandcoffee featuring an infinity scarf

What did you think of those three outfit ideas?

All are easy to shop for, affordable, on trend, and totally suitable for going back to class! Be sure to add your own touches to make each look personalized for you. Hopefully these looks will give your brain a boost before hitting the books (definitely a lot less stressful than finals in a few months!)

Almost forgot…I’m sorry for mentioning school.

February 9, 2014

The Curvy Girls Guide to Valentine’s Day Outfit: Girls Night Out or Date Night

Partying and getting tipsy with the girls or snuggling up to the boyfriend after a nice date?

Whatever your plans may be, you’re going to need a killer outfit!

Luckily for you, I’ve got a few ideas for you to choose from.

Let’s start with a night out with the boy…You can find these fabolous pieces at online stores like; loveculture.com :: plussizefix.com :: baublebar.com and more! Simply click the photos!!

A sexy dress (perfect for this date night outfit) that’s going to hug all of your curves but still covers problem areas (if you have them of course.) Be sure to grab a coat or jacket if you’re anywhere near the 60% of the snow covered states. Keep the accessories simple, that way your honey can keep his eyes on your curves. Plus, overdoing it isn’t an option…think less disco ball and more discreet bling.

Now if you night includes dinner and bar hopping with your favorite gal pals, this outfit is for you!

This outfit choice is where you want to have a little more fun! Try new prints or different fits of your regular club clothes…this way, the jitters of wearing things outside your comfort zone won’t be a problem because you’re with your girls! Pair skinny jeans/leggings with a basic tee and dress it up with the accessories. It’s ok to brighten it up on this night.

There you have it!

Hopefully, these ideas takes away the stress of finding something to wear next weekend. Just focus on having fun!

Remember to check out these dating tips featured earlier in the week.

December 16, 2013

Shopping for Wide Calf Boots: A How-To Guide

‘Tis the season for boots!

Whether you like them short or tall, pointed or round, there’s a pair for every mood!

Some of us curvy girls have a hard time finding boots with a wide shaft to fit our calves or even the width of our feet. I’ve been lucky enough to fit into medium width and regular shaft boots, thank goodness for something positive in the gene pool but several of my fellow curvy girls aren’t so lucky. Shopping for boots can become a tedious and overwhelming task for anyone. To help ease the stress of that shopping trip, I’ve found a few of the trendiest, stylish, and most comfortable fitting boots.

See the 10 pairs of boots and booties that are ALL available in wide widths and/or wide calf sizes.

Walking In A Winter Wonderland by curvesandcoffee featuring riding boots

1. Route 66 “Tahlia” Boot ~ Kmart

2. Naya “Apollonia” Boot ~ Nordstrom

3. Bandolino “Callan” Wide Calf Boot ~ Zappos

4. Isaac Mizrahi New York “Arno” Lycra Stretch Boot ~ Nordstrom

5. Bella-Vita Walker Brown Herringbone Boot ~ Zappos

6. Oxford Lace-Up Booties ~ Torrid

7. Sam Edelman “Petty” Booties ~ Nordstrom

8. Sole Society “Helena” Booties ~ Nordstrom

9. BC Footwear “Building Blocks” Booties ~ Nordstrom

10. Tildon “Flawless” Booties ~ Nordstrom

The average shaft size for knee high boots range from 13-15cm. Most boots that are designed to fit wider calves and 16,17cm and above. If you aren’t sure how your feet and calves will fit into a new pair of boots, simply use a flexible tape measure (like this one here) and measure the circumference of the widest part of your calf. If you plan on wearing your jeans or pants tucked into the inside of those new boots, make sure you give yourself enough room. For example, if your calf measurement is 15 without jeans, WITH jeans it’s should be a centimeter or two larger. Therefore, a regular pair of knee high boots won’t fit comfortably.

If you’re going to be out there “Walking In A Winter Wonderland”….be sure to keep your feet warm!

UPDATE: #9 BC Booties are completely sold out BUT here is a similar pair ~ NaturalSoul by Naturalizer $60 ~ Kohls

December 2, 2013

Holiday Shopping Survival Guide

Welcome to December stylish sweets!

There are officially 23 days left til Christmas, can you believe it?!

If you still have any shopping left to do, then this guide is for you!

Last year, we went over what to buy those special people in your life with the Gift Giving at Any Budget Guide. This year, I’m doing it little differently. The following tips and ideas are perfect for getting you through that quick mall trip that turns into a three-four hour event!

The most important thing: COMFORT! You do not want to wander around the mall for hours in heels, a dress, a skirt, a heavy coat, or even tight jeans for that matter (unless of course they’re stretch!)

The following outfit is great for doing everything you need to do.

Holiday Shopping Survival Guide: 1 by curvesandcoffee featuring rhinestone hair pins

A crossbody bag that’s big enough to hold your scarf and gloves but not too big that it gets in your way. Think “hands-free”.

Leggings, yes curvy girls, leggings! Don’t let anyone tell you you can’t wear leggings! These are the best thing to happen to the fashion world since….since….well, you get the idea! Make sure you’re wearing a top long enough so that it covers your butt. That’s very important, especially if you happen to have a pair of leggings that aren’t Lululemon proof.

Next, you want to have bobby pins….no brainer, right?!

Finally, the footwear. You want to be stylish but comfortable not stylish and in pain. A flat biker boot is the way to go.

I know you’re probably thinking…what about a coat?! Here’s the thing about coats…they’re hot, bulky, and cumbersome. If you wear a coat, you’re going to take it off eventually, then you’re stuck carrying it…you don’t want that. I say, try your best to get a close parking spot and make a run for the door! Or there’s always those mall lockers if they’re available at your location, definitely use one of those if a coat is a must!

Now, if you’re going to have a purse during your shopping adventure, make sure it’s a cross body bag. For the obvious reasons like hands free shopping, it’s a great safety measure. No matter what town, city or suburb you live in, thieves are right around the corner and it’s best to protect yourself any way you can.

By wearing a crossbody bag, a would be thief will have a harder time snatching it off your body. It’s also great because carrying a heavier tote or clutch…just isn’t a comfy idea.

Holiday Shopping Survival Guide: 2 by curvesandcoffee featuring travel makeup brushes

So, what is mandatory for your shopping event?

Nothing that’ll weigh your shoulders or the bag down. Just make sure you have the essentials. For me, that includes a travel sized brush, hair ties, lotion & body spray, a long lasting colored lip gloss, a wallet, hand sanitizer, and sunglasses. Those are pretty much everyday items for me, I never ever ever leave home without them. You want to try to look as fresh leaving the mall than when you came in.

I’ve been that chick that leaves the mall looking haggered. I get home and people are asking me if I’m ok, are you feeling alright, do you need water?! You don’t want that. You’re tired, annoyed, hot and bothered and trust me, looking how you feel at that moment is the pits! You walked into the mall to get things done so feeling accomplished is the look you’re going for. A quick moisture spray and foundation touch-up somewhere between Macy’s and the Food Court mid-adventure should do the trick.

At that point, you’re halfway done or heading towards the door.

That means….

Once you’re done…you’re done!

November 6, 2013

Wishlist Wednesday with Marc by Marc Jacobs

I love it.

I want it.

I think I need it.

Marc by Marc Jacobs

Show Box Darci

How I’d Wear It by curvesandcoffee featuring Marc by Marc Jacobs

October 30, 2013

#ThinkPink Shopping For A Cause

October may be coming to a close but there’s still time to shop your heart out for Breast Cancer Awareness Month. Here are more stores and pink products for a feel good purchase until October 31st.

Coach

The Pink Shop at Macy’s

Pink Pony by Ralph Lauren

Avon

Estee Lauder

Get your butt out there and shop!

September 17, 2013

30 Days 30 Shoes of September: Days 8-16

Notice anything different? Ok, ok, I’ll just tell you! Curves And Coffee got a tiny facelift! Uber excited about the new digs. You guys know I’m a perfectionist and a lotta OCD soooo changing my mind is sort of my thing. Well, changing colors are my thing. That also explains why I buy more hair dye than a platinum blonde!

Anywho…

While fashion season is going on around us, it’s been hard to focus my brain on one thing at once. Hence this delayed post for 30 Days 30 Shoes…so sorry stylish sweets. Never fret, I’m here to make your wishlists longer with lots of great shoes that are *drumroll* under $100!!