Stressed? Who, Me?

This is me.

yikes

OK, so that's not really me, but that's how I've been feeling for the last couple of days.  Stressed! I'm seriously in need of a vacation.  Between trying to get the boutique up and going, and working my real job full time, plus squeezing in making dinner, taking care of the pups, and time with the boyfriend..I'm worn out!

So I decided today I'm going to blog about how I (effectively) handle my stress...So here you go.

#1. Hitting the gym.

kiddo

Getting a good cardio workout in always makes me feel SO much better....like I can tackle the world. It must be those endorphins kicking in!

#2. YOGA

yogie

I'm a beginner with Yoga, but there's something about stretching that relieves all that built up negative energy in your body. My friend Jill and I take classes sometimes at a great little studio here in Columbus.  It makes you feel great, and its good for you.

3. Blogging!

bloggie girl

I've become such a big fan of blogging! I've always been a writer, but to have people read your thoughts is uber cool sometimes :) I get in that writing zone and the stress fades away!

#4. Laughing

Laughing instantly makes me feel better when I'm stressed to the max. I usually get my source of entertainment from my boyfriend Ryan. We both love the movie "Hitch" and Ry loves doing the dance movies via Kevin James in the movie. Cracks me up every time.

#5. Icy Pops

icee

Icy Pops are one of  my favorite summertime treats.  There's something about coming home after a hot summer day, and having a nice ice pop that clears away all my stress.  Perhaps its the child in me screaming to get out :)

Wordless Wednesday, Fashion Photographer Michelle Holden

Photos

The Legendary Diane von Furstenberg

Diane

If you don't know who Diane von Furstenberg is - you should. She is one of the most influential and talented fashion designers of our time.  She began designing in 1970 and quickly became an icon in the fashion industry. Diane was known to symbolize freedom and power for women. She is best known for designing the legendary wrap dress. The wrap dress is a staple piece that should be in all of our closets. Its easy to wear, and always looks classic and chic.  The wrap dress looks good on ANY woman, regardless shape and size because it accentuates the woman's smallest part of the body - the waist. Thank you Diane!

Take a look at some of these great pieces I found by Diane..

Diane in her classic wrap dress

Diane's design in 1973

Diane's More current pieces:

Wrap Dress featured in USA Today

 

Wrap Dress 2010 

DBMB Update & Fall 2010 Accessory Trends

Designs By Mandi Boutique Update:

My business cards are here! They look better in person but here is a quick picture for you guys.  I'm REALLY happy with them.  I was going for a simple look with just the website address (thats not up yet) since you can get all of my contact info there.  I'm really glad I got the glossy finish, it really puts a great touch on the card with the black background. (You cant really see the gloss finish in the picture)
 They look great! Thanks @vistaprint!

It's buying time! I've been working on my Fall 2010 buying line now that I've enjoyed and reviewed all of my sample pieces.  Launch date is looking like August instead of July since I've had a few set backs, but things are really starting to roll now. Yay :) The hard parts over, and the fun is about to begin!

What I love about accessories is that they are inexpensive ways to make your boring every day outfits look trendy. Here is a bit of research that I've found that has to do with accessory trends for Fall 2010, in case your interested:

- Animal print accessories

- Metallic, again

- Statement Necklaces

- Snake Skin

- Studs (yay! bring on the rock and roll!)

- Layered necklaces

- Bangles with metal details

- Fringe

- Imagery.  Accessories with images such as elephants, flowers, birds, and coins will be popular.

- Large statement rings

- Colors: Dark greens and purples