Obnoxious Pops Of Color

Never, ever waste a good hair day. Like, ever.

Listen folks - I didn't just spend 45 minutes curling my hair to sit on my couch. I don't need to make a total night of it, but if I at least hit up my favorite Mexican place for a burrito and a frozen margarita on a Friday night, I'm one happy lady. Simples pleasures, people. 

Ever since my little trip to the hospital last week, I'm definitely making some changes - both mentally and physically. Until I figure out what is causing my migraines to be so severe, I'm drastically cutting out a lot of things in my diet like caffeine and one of my favorites, chocolate.

Also, I'm more determined than ever to really start pushing myself on my blog - and hopefully, branch out in terms of opportunities. Being a blogger isn't something that I would consider a hobby for myself, and I really want to be able to reach as many people as I can with my words. I also hope to work with brands that I can really contribute something to, whether it be collaborating on designs, being a part of marketing in some capacity, or my ultimate dream - being a brand ambassador. So if you're a brand, feel free to reach out to me.

Until then, I'm taking things one day at a time.

Outfit Details:

Button Front Shirt - Old Navy / Polka Dot Skinny Jeans - Forever 21 (similar style:  Jessica Simpson brand Polka Dot Jeans)/ Cambridge Satchel Company Fluoro bag - won at the IFB Conference February 2013 / Shoemint Gina Wedge / Deluxe Girlfriend Beaded Wrap Bracelet - Henri Bendel / Vanessa Mooney Labyrinth Ring

Migraines Are A Mother

I don't often talk about very personal things going on in my life on House Of Jeffers because I like to keep things upbeat, and figure my readers like to see the same, too. But, as you know, live isn't always roses.

But, having a blog means that sometimes life happens... and that means shifting gears for a while to take care of the things that are of equal importance to you. Plus, I think me taking this step to write about something a little more personal might open the door for me to do this more often here. After all, what I'm about to write isn't anything to be ashamed of or that catastrophic... it's just life.

So, on Sunday, I woke up with a migraine. I've had migraines all my life, and this one wasn't even the worst. The one thing that WAS different was my vision - I was seeing spots, and things looked murky. I thought perhaps I just slept strange, and figured it was going to take some time for my eyes to adjust, but, an hour later, no improvement.

Then, I started to get some other symptoms that had me concerned - particularly my arm going numb and my heart pounding. First thing I thought was, "I'm having a stroke." Without anyone home, no signs of my headache easing up, and my family a good 30 minute car ride away, I called 911.

I was taken to a hospital and treated for my migraine symptoms - blood tests, IV and all. I had another minor issue that related to my migraine, but for now, I'm doing better. At some point, I'll be seeing a neurologist.

I did, however, have the worse migraine of my life Monday. I visited my primary care physician and found out that the type of migraines I get are called Aura. What turned into a slight migraine at 11 a.m. turned into constant beating of my vein in my forehead, temple and ear for 8 hours... and it still hasn't stopped today. I know I'm not the only person who suffers from migraines, so I'd love to hear what remedies you use to relieve migraine pain.

So, why am I telling you this? Because I missed my blog for the couple of days I've been away. I missed my daily routine that every Sunday night I sit down and write another post on House Of Jeffers. While some of you may or may not have noticed, I just wanted to share what's been going on so I can ease back into my regular, chipper, sarcastic, bang-filled outfit posts.

See you back here on Friday with a new post... and thanks for reading!

Studs with Sass

Two words: Studded accessories. All day, every day.

Honestly, for such a simple accessory it makes a bold impact. Studded accessories add mega flair to any outfit. Some people are put off by them - yes, they are a punk rock staple - and as a self-proclaimed hipster, studs are honestly a no-brainer for me. Even the most feminine, girly of outfits have room for a little edginess a la some badass jewelry and studs. Don't you think?

I threw this outfit together for a laid-back Saturday with my husband to go to a flea market. HUGE disappointment. I have yet to find a good one in New Jersey since I moved. Flea markets used to be something I looked forward to, and even when I was a teenager, my mother and I used to find some awesome jewelry at them. Now, they all sell tube socks. No such luck... yet.

Since I can't wear colored denim or too-out-there pants to work, I'm usually all about putting together outfits that let me wear some of the other pieces in my closet. I would, however, wear pieces of this outfit with other elements for my 9 - 5, just not all at the same time.

Outfit Details:

Fitted Blazer - H&M / Leopard Print Top - Forever 21 / Five-Pocket Skinny Pants - Candie's for Kohl's / Studded Oxford Shoes - Miss Selfridge / Urban Expressions Handbag purchased at South Moon Under/ Gold Stud Necklace - Forever 21

A Love For Lace

I'd like to tip my bangs to any designer who featured lace in their spring 2013 runway collections. Lace isn't just for wedding dresses - speaking of which, my wedding dress had a beautiful lace train. It's one of my favorite fabrics as it's ultra feminine - so I'm totally down with seeing more British lace in spring fashion this year.

And while my striped top meets the requirements of any run-of-the-mill striped blouse, I think it's Peter Pan lace collar takes whatever pants or bottoms I pair it with and makes the outfit more delicate.

But I have to admit, while this look is very House Of Jeffers (it meets the requirements of a striped anything a la my Kate Spade New York handbag and New Look blouse purchased during a trip to England, has a shot of BAM via the red pants and a new pair of Madewell Andie sandals for good measure), it sorta reminds me of something I French mime would wear.

Only my bangs are doing the silent talking.

Outfit Details:

Striped Peter Pan Collar Top - New Look / Red Denim Jeans - Forever 21 / The Andie Sandal - Madewell / Kaleigh Vanston Striped Handbag - Kate Spade New York / Silver Pyramid Stud Bracelet - Forever 21 (similar style here) / Wendy Brandes Exclamation Point Ring

Madewell Spring 2013 Preview in Short Hills NJ

I had the pleasure of helping my local Madewell store (212) in Short Hills, New Jersey welcome in spring with the debut of their newest collection a couple weekends ago. Knowing the store already had plenty to tempt me with, including the brand-spanking new Addie sandals you might have seen on my Instagram account, I knew this collection would not disappoint.

Along with an influx of pastel neons, bold prints and a return to baby doll dresses in various fits and forms, I had the chance to mix and mingle with customers while playing dress up myself.

Check out some of my favorite selects from the event!

The softest racerback tanks - ever. Stocking up on color is a must for spring.

I ended up coming home with a few goodies myself, one of which was a new pair of denim.  The Skinny Skinny Ankle Jeans live up to their name - they're tight, hug your curves and my personal favorite, look like they're painted on.

Don't waste the pretty: 

If you're on the market for your next music festival dress, it's waiting for you at Madewell. So many textured prints, florals and stripes!

How adorable is this Spring Festival Necklace?!