What I Wore: Taylor Swift Concert

July 29, 2015
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While I was in Chicago, four of my friends and I went to the Taylor Swift Concert. If you follow me on instagram (EverydayK_) you saw the video I posted! It was such an amazing concert and we had the best time! Seriously one of my all time favorite concerts!!  I will try to focus on my outfit for it and not go on and on about how amazing (I mean life changing) the concert was!! 


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 When I was planning  my outfit I knew I wanted something fun and flirty but easy to pack. I figured if there is ever a time to rock a crop top, it is definitely at the Queen of Crop Top's concert! I found a few that I loved and settled on this leopard print one! The fit was perfect! It is fitted around the bust without being tight. I also really like this colorblocked one. Leather skirts (mine is faux) can be a fun way to add edge to an outfit. They are very versatile piece for anyone's wardrobe. I knew I would be standing and dancing for hours, so comfortable shoes were a must. 




Kara Krittenbrink
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Chambray Romper

July 27, 2015
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When packing, it helps to keep outfits simple and versatile. One of the first things I knew I would pack is this Old Navy chambray romper. As soon as I bought it I knew I would be wearing it over and over this summer. It can be dressed up with wedges and jewelry but works just as easily with sandals or espadrilles. I also think it would make a great swimsuit cover up!

I wore it in Chicago for a day of brunch, sightseeing and shopping. It was perfect for the warm Chicago weather and kept me comfortable all day. The best part is that it is currently under $20! Gap also has a great chambray romper. If you buy it online and enter the word "cool" at checkout you will get 40% off your purchase. 

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Old Navy Chambray Romper - Stella & Dot Necklace, old (similar here)
Target Sandals, old (similar here)
Kate Spade Crossbody, old (I love this one and this one) 
Kara Krittenbrink
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Eating our way thru Chicago

July 24, 2015
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Ok Chicago, where have you been my whole life? I spent four fantastic days in the Windy City and left excited for my next trip there! I went with 8 of my girlfriends and we had an unbelievably fantastic time. For my first Chicago post, I wanted to break down all the amazing places that we ate at. As a group we did a ton of research and asked for recommendations from anyone we knew that had been before. I have to say that our research did us well; each meal seemed to get better and better.



Day 1 Eats
Wildberry Cafe – Located across the street from Millennium Park, this breakfast spot was the perfect way to start our trip after a 6 am flight. French toast, waffles, skillets, it has something to please everyone.
Recommendation: Cinnamon Roll French Toast

Gino’s East – For every local you ask for a Chicago style pizza recommendation, you will get a different answer. Our first experience with it was Gino’s East. We enjoyed a late lunch and afternoon beers after some shopping. Personally, this was my favorite pizza place we tried and the cheesy bread is amazing too!
Recommendation: Spinach Margherita Deep Dish Pizza and Cheesy Pizza Bread

Sunda – This restaurant is definitely one of my favorite I’ve ever been to anywhere! I would highly suggest you get a reservation. Everything on the menu is meant to be shared. The food comes out as it is ready and you can keep ordering throughout the time you are there. As a group we managed to try a little of everything on the menu. 
Recommendation: Spicy edamame, Brussel Sprout Salad, Pork Steamed Buns

Chicken & French Toast at Little Goat Diner
Day 2 Eats
Little Goat Diner – Owned by Top Chef winner, Stephanie Izard, Little Goat Diner is diner food with a twist.
Recommendation: Elvis Waffles or Chicken & French Toast

Jake Melnick’s – It is a great place to take a break and grab a drink after shopping on Michigan Avenue. Recommendation: Mac & Cheese

Formento’s – This was the number one place I wanted to try in Chicago! As a group, I think we all loved this place. The drinks were fun and the food was absolutely amazing. The pasta is made fresh every morning. I wanted to try every dish because they all sounded so decadent!
Recommendation: Shrimp Scampi, Chicken Parmesan, Paloma (best drink ever)


Having a Paloma at Formento's

Day 3 Eats: 
Lou Malnati’s – The butter crust on their deep dish pizza is heavenly! You will wait awhile here but you can order your pizza while you wait for a table! Not long after we sat, our pizza was ready for us.
Recommendation: Pepperoni deep dish with butter crust

Three Dots and a Dash  - Only half the group went here but for them it was one of their favorite places on the trip. Really fun vibe and great drink selection. 


Next week I'll recap our activities and my recommendations for sight seeing outfits!! Thanks for stopping by and Happy Friday!
Kara Krittenbrink
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Nordstrom Anniversary Sale

July 22, 2015
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Currently it is the Nordstroms big Anniversary Sale. This is one of my favorite sales of the year. It's different from other sales because everything on sale is new and a preview of what is to come in the fall. It's a great way to prepare for next season and get your fall wardrobe ready! There are tons of items on sale and I've scoured thru them to pick my favorites. 


I live in booties in the fall and winter and these wine colored ones are the perfect addition to my collection. You can wear this lace romper now and then layer it with a jacket when it gets cooler out. This sweater is a great way to achieve the layered look with minimal effort. It comes in several colors! As you know I love a matching set and a crop top! I stocked up on my favorite Hanky Pankys and a Tory Burch crossbody (that is currently sold out)!

Make sure you check out the Nordstroms Sale, it runs until August 2nd! After that, the prices go back up! 

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Kara Krittenbrink
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Packing A Carry-On

July 17, 2015
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Traveling is one of my favorite things! I love exploring new places and am lucky to have friends that feel the same way. I am currently in Chicago on a girls' trip. This is my first time in the windy city and I'm loving seeing a new city and what it has to offer.  I can't wait to try some Chicago style pizza and see what all the fuss is about!

Packing can be a stressful part of traveling if you don't have a plan. It is hard to know exactly what you will need. For this trip, I checked a bag and took a small carry-on. Over my past few trips, I feel I have mastered what to pack in my carry-on. I think a carry-on can serve a few purposes. It can extend your suitcase and keep crucial items with you while you travel. 


I recently bought a new carry-on and it is perfect! I have the option to unzip the bottom and it gets larger. I first pick out my plane survival items. Next, I pack what I need in case my luggage gets lost.  Last, I pack anything that isn't fitting in my luggage. To keep the carry-on organized, I like to organize things in smaller pouches or bags. I put all of my chargers in this Tory Burch case. 




Carry-on Checklist

Plane Survival
  • Book or kindle
  • Magazine
  • Snack
  • Notebook
  • Gum
  • Jacket or Chambray 
  • Socks
  • Hairbrush
  • Travel Pillow
  • Chargers
  • Earphones
  • Extra Charger
Lost Luggage Essentials
  • Makeup
  • Medication
  • Jewelry
  • Important Documents
  • Glasses
  • Contacts
  • Extra Outfit
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Kara Krittenbrink
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Heat Advisory

July 15, 2015
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It is officially hot in Oklahoma, like heat advisory hot!! On these days, it's not fun to put on a bunch of layers so I try to keep it simple when I get dressed for work. This is the time to rely on your wardrobe basics. I like to find basics with special details such as fun color or fabric. I love the bluish-purple color of this skirt and it's a great price!! A sheer and breezy white top kept me cool all day. To add some interest I threw on my favorite layered necklaces and a bright pink purse. 

Have a great Wednesday!

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A-line Skirt - Sheer top, old (love this one) - Sam Edelman Caged Sandals, old (similar here)
Stella & Dot Necklace - Kate Spade Purse (similar color here) - Ray-Ban Wayfarer
Kara Krittenbrink
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A New 'Do

July 13, 2015
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Something about Summer makes me ready for a new hair do! I've had long hair for awhile and was ready to take the plunge and get rid of some length. I've pulled together some of the inspiration photos I've been loving. 


I am really into medium/collarbone length hair. The cut works well on most hair types and looks good on almost any face shape. Thicker hair will look better with a few more layers to get rid of bulk. I love the texture in these cuts. If you like to have options when you style, this is still a very versatile cut. You can wear it smooth and straight or use a curling rod to add waves or curls. This length is also still long enough to braid or fishtail (see tutorials here and here). For a low maintenance style, spray a salt spray in your hair like this one or this one and let it air dry. 


For something a little shorter, I looked to the above pics for inspiration. These cuts just graze your shoulders. The shorter length takes away a bit of the versatility because it is harder to pull it up. Just like the collarbone length, you can wear your hair straight or wavy at this length. This style is better if you are willing to fix your hair everyday. Shorter cuts can lose their shape quicker so they require more frequent visits to the salon. I love bang braids on this style!


After talking to my hair stylist, see tips here, I cut over five inches off my hair!! I was ready for a change but wanted to keep the same versatility as my long hair.  The texture and thickness of my hair needs a bit of length to keep it weighed down. I've had this new cut for a little over a week and have had fun styling it. My favorite look is to run a 1.5" curling iron thru it and then I brush it out to create soft waves!

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Curling Rod - John Frieda Salt Spray - Gnarly Whale Beach Spray
Stella & Dot Necklace

Kara Krittenbrink
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Beauty Rx: Micellar Water

July 10, 2015
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What if I told you I have not washed my face in almost two months? Ever since I discovered Micellar Water, I have put my wash cloths and face wash away! Micellar Water was developed in France and has been a cult favorite there for some time. It is starting to make a name for itself state side and now many beauty brands have developed their own. It may sound like a gimmick, and I was skeptical at first, but Micellar Water may change your cleansing routine.

What is Micellar Water?Micellar Water gets its name from the micelles, oil molecules, suspended in the water. The oil molecules attract the dirt and makeup on your face and pull it away. There's no need to rinse after using. There isn't a cleaning or drying affect like most normal cleansers. In fact my face feels softer and moisturized after using it. 

Who should use it?It is good for almost any type of skin! I have sensitive skin and I'm always nervous about new products but my face felt great after the first use. Some brands make formulations especially for oil, dry or sensitive skin. If you currently use a treatment face wash for acne, I would not switch to Micellar Water. 

I would especially recommend Micellar Water for anyone who needs a simple cleansing routine. It's easy to use and takes very little time. If you are someone that has a hard time always washing your face, this may be just the thing for you!

How do you use Micellar Water?
Moisten a cotton ball or pad with Micellar Water. Sweep it across your face to remove dirt and makeup. That's it!! No rinsing needed. You may still need eye makeup remover for your mascara and eyeliner. 

You can find Micellar Waters at almost any price point. With the gaining popularity, I'm sure there will be even more to choose from soon. I have been using Simple's Micellar Water. It is an inexpensive but highly recommended brand. I have also seen great recommendations about this one and this one too!

Kara Krittenbrink
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Mixing Prints

July 08, 2015
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Many trends come and go thru the seasons. One trend that is always in style is mixing patterns. This can be intimidating for some people but in reality isn't hard to master. There are not any rigid rules for this trend but I have put together some tips to help you get started. Once you start putting prints together you will have tons more outfit options from your closet.



STRATEGIES FOR MIXING PRINTS:
  1. Stick with a similar color pattern. Pick two prints that are in the same color family. 
  2. Play with scale. One pattern should be larger than the other, think thick stripes and smaller floral print.
  3. Make one print bolder than the other. Balance bold, loud prints with a softer print.
  4. Simple and graphic are easier to mix together. Stripes, especially in black and white, are one of the simplest patterns and mix with almost any other pattern and color.
  5. Keep one pattern in neutral colors. A neutral print, like leopard, will pair easier with a bright print. 
  6. Stick with pieces and silhouettes you are comfortable wearing. Mixing prints will already take you out of your comfort zone so stick to silhouettes that you already love.
  7. Use your accessories to mix prints. If you are looking for a more subtle way use belts, shoes and other accessories as a way to mix prints.
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Kara Krittenbrink
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Striped Crop Top

July 06, 2015
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I don't know what it is about summer but this season seems to be full of parties. If it's not a barbecue, pool party or shower then it is finding the closest patio for a drink with friends. A few weeks ago, I went to one of my best friend's engagement party. The best part is that it was a surprise!! Her boyfriend planned to propose to her that night and then bring her to the party!

I wore this outfit for the exciting occasion! I finally jumped on the crop top bandwagon and I have to say I love it! I've admired this trend for awhile but didn't make the commitment until I found this this striped crop top, mentioned in this post. I also love this one, this one and this one. The key for me was to take a lesson from the Taylor Swift school of crop tops and show very little skin. I didn't buy the matching shorts, instead I paired it with high waisted navy shorts keep the look on the conservative side. 

I can see myself taking this outfit on a few upcoming trips! With some heels or wedges, it would be perfect for a date night or girls' night out. I'm also excited to pair the top with a high waisted skirt for a more ladylike spin on the trend. 

How would you style this trend?

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Gianni Bini Crop Top - JCrew Shorts, old (love these and these) - Stella & Dot Purse
Target Sandals, sold out - Stella & Dot Earrings - Revlon Ultra HD Lipstick in Poppy
Kara Krittenbrink
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Braid Class: Bang Braid

July 01, 2015
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Dutch, French, Fishtail... I love braids! I think they are such a fun way to mix up your look and add interest to your hairstyle. One of my favorite versions is a bang braid. It works for so many situations. It can add interest to a basic ponytail, gets your hair out of your face and is great when you are growing out bangs (like I am)! 

Today, I've put together a tutorial on a basic French Dutch Bang Braid. Although the photos aren't perfect, my model certainly is. My sweet godchild, Raegan, was patient enough to model for me. 


Prep: You can braid any hair, curly or straight. If you need more "grip" to your hair, hairspray, dry shampoo or my favorite texture spray works wonders. 
  1. Decide how much of your hair you want to braid. You can clip off the hair you don't want to braid, if that helps. Along your part, take a thin section of hair to start your braid.
  2. Divide into 3 even strands.
  3. Start your dutch braid (see Dutch Braid Tutorial here), braiding each strand 2 times. Remember: A dutch braid means you take the outside strand under the middle strand and not over.
  4. When you are back to the strand next to your face, add hair to the strand as you braid it under. 
  5. Keep adding hair to each strand as you braid.
  6. This is another view from the side. As you braid you can either keep the bang right along your hairline or pull it toward the back of your hair at an angle. 
  7. Keep incorporating hair until you get to your ear. At this point you have several options:
  8. You can pin the braid behind the ear or finish the strands by doing a basic braid til you are at the ends and secure with an elastic. (seen here)
  9. Basic braid the strands for a few inches and then pull all of your hair into a ponytail.
  10. Keep incorporating hair as you braid the hair to the base of your neck then basic braid to the ends.
Once you have the basics down you can change this style up. You can change up how much hair you incorporate into the braid or the length of your braid. In this post, the braid is only a few inches. To make your braid thicker, you can "pancake" it. Once the braid is done start at the bottom and pull the braid apart to make it appear thicker.

Kara Krittenbrink
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