Tag Archives: Haute Off The Rack

5 Things To Ask Yourself Before Splurging On Fashion

Hi everyone, I hope you all had a nice weekend. Today I’m sharing 5 things to ask yourself before splurging on fashion because we all know too well how easy it is to make mistakes when it comes to pricey purchases that we think we need. As a fellow young professional in today’s world, I think it’s important for us to consider these five questions before we get overly excited about something new and blow all of our money since we’re “real adults!”

Did you do something to deserve a prize? For example, did you recently accomplish a work, life or fitness goal and you promised yourself a treat? Then I say I “treat yo-self” my friends! I put this question first because this is my favorite reason to purchase something special that I’ve had been eyeing. Not only do I feel good about myself for achieving my goal, but I also get to celebrate with a brand new handbag, accessory or piece of clothing. Then every time I use that item I always think about how proud I am of myself. However, you should consider all of the below facts before pulling the trigger!
Will the cost-per-use balance out? How often do you plan to wear the item? Is it a handbag that you see yourself carrying daily or is an embellished gown that you’re only going to wear once? I personally recommend only splurging on items that you see yourself using/wearing multiple times because I just can’t justify spending $$$ on a one time fling! However, there are exceptions depending on the resale value. Sometimes it’s worth it if you can turn around and resell the item for a little less than what you originally paid. Take a look at eBay and Poshmark to see what the going resale rate is for the item your purchasing or even just an item by the same brand.
Is it a classic piece that you can see yourself wearing in years to come or passing down to your children or someone special to you? I would say the perfect example for this is a nice leather handbag, a timeless accessory or a nice a piece of jewelry. This past year I purchased the Chanel Boy Bag and a Burberry scarf, which are both classic pieces that I know I will wear in years to come and would absolutely love to pass down to my daughter one day. They are also two items that I’ve coveted since I was a young child. I always dreamed that I would carry a Chanel bag and walk around with my Burberry scarf perfectly draped over my long coat.
Have you read the fine print? Every purchase is an investment especially when it comes to high end designer purchases. With that being said, you want to make sure to do your research and make sure that all of the item’s characteristics will fit with your current lifestyle. Read reviews on the durability and lifespan of the item and most importantly, read the return policy!! Also, look around at other retailers to make sure you’re getting it for the best price.
Can you really afford it? When I say can you really afford it, I don’t mean do you actually have the exact amount of money in your bank account. I mean are you going to be eating crackers for every meal until your next paycheck or should half of that bonus be going toward your student loan? Don’t spend that you don’t have because it doesn’t feel good. Trust me, it feels so much more rewarding when you’ve paid off other big things like your car note or student loan so you don’t have to feel guilty.

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Jewelry: Cluse Watch | Melanie Auld Rings | Tatum Bangle Bracelet Stack c/o Kendra Scott

2 Bonus Tips:

Always sleep on it and if you’re worried that it won’t be there in the morning, take that as a sign.
Make sure you really want it for yourself and it’s not just because everyone else has it.

3 Reasons To Rent A Party Bus!

January 16, 2017

Hi everyone, I hope you’re all enjoying the long weekend. Today I’m sharing 3 reasons to rent a party bus for your next social outing. I recently threw a party for my my boyfriend Blake’s 28th birthday. We invited 20 of his closest friends to dinner at his favorite Italian restaurant, Sal & Judy’s. Blake knew all about dinner and who was invited, but I wanted to throw in a couple of surprises for him too so I ordered his favorite red velvet desserts from Nothing Bundt Cakes and planned a pre-dinner-party at his mom’s house so she could participate too. Lastly, I rented a party bus so all of his friends could enjoy the night without worrying about who would be the designated driver. Plus who doesn’t love a good time on a party bus.

When it came to renting the party bus, it took me a while to find a highly reputable limo service based in New Orleans online. Since I was having trouble finding a good service, I decided that once I chose one and completed the experience, I would share my personal review with you to save you the extra research. Fortunately, I finally came across Tracey Nicoll’s Limousine & Hummer Rentals and they had a couple of good reviews. Plus they recently bought a brand new party bus, which looked amazing and would fit our group of friends perfectly so I decided to with them and I am so glad I did because they did not disappoint! Randy Nicoll walked me through the entire reservation process and made sure the driver knew exactly where he would be picking us up and dropping us off. The driver even called the me day before the reservation to touch base as well as the night of the party once he was on his way.

3 Reasons to Rent a Party Bus:

Cheers! Everyone gets to drink! Let’s be real here…the number one reason you hire a driver is so that no one has to sacrifice drinking to be the designated driver! Plus you get to ensure the safety of all of your guests knowing that everyone has safe rides throughout the night.

2) Epic dance parties! Trust me, you’ve never experienced dance parties like this with your friends before! I don’t know if it’s the alcohol, the tinted windows, the stripper pole or the multi-color strobe lights, but party busses just know how to bring out the wild side in everyone! It’s basically like having your own mini night club with all of your friends!

3) The party never stops! For real though! The bus offers everything you need to continue partying until your next stop including: iPod capability, surround sound, beverage centers, champagne wells and ice bins. Speaking of the ice bins, the bus arrives with the bins already filled with ice and bottled water. So all you have to do is bring your own alcohol! Tracey Nicoll’s newest party bus also offers:
50 Inch Flat Screen TV (back)
17 Inch Flat Screen TV (front)
Tinted Windows for privacy
Fiber Optics, Mirror Ceiling Multi-Color Lights
CD Player
DVD Player
Intercom Phones
Leather Seats

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Blake’s mom and I decorated a mini Christmas tree with photos of Blake’s past birthdays and memories with his friends.

Fun Fact: I actually rented a party bus years ago for Blake’s 19th birthday party because I wanted to impress him and I think it worked considering that we’re still together nine years later!

Photos by: Brooke Boyd

I hope you all consider renting a party bus for your next social outing. Trust me, you won’t regret it! If you find that it’s a bit pricey to cover yourself, just ask your group of friends if they would be interested in splitting the cost. If you have a large enough group to fill the bus, it will help lower the individual cost per person!

P.S. If you go to dinner or bring treats on the bus, don’t forget to offer some to your driver! They get hungry too!

Workout Wednesday: My Top 6 Running Shoes & Everyday Sneakers

January 11, 2017

Happy Workout Wednesday everyone! Today I’m sharing my top 6 running shoes and everyday sneakers to help you look and feel your best while hitting the gym or running errands because we all know sneakers aren’t just for the gym anymore! They’ve become a wardrobe staple and a huge trend for everyday wear.

Scroll through this post for mini reviews on all of my current favorite running shoes and everyday sneakers.

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The Women’s Nike Roshe Two SE Sneaker (also available here)

The Nike Roshe Two shoes are ultra-lightweight and comfortable for running and everyday wear. I especially love them in this nude color! The latest edition features breathable textile on the upper part and a stretch bootie construction for a foot-hugging fit. Not to mention the extra three layers of foam through the midsole, which makes it feel like you’re walking on clouds! Talk about a heavenly experience!

Size Reference: TTS

2. The Nike Juvenate Sneaker

The Juvenate sneaker is very similar to the Roshe Two SE sneakers in both the fit and the style.

Size Reference: Runs TTS

3. The Adidas Superstar Sneaker in rose gold (also available here)

The Superstar Sneakers look great with leggings or distressed jeans for everyday wear. Plus add a bomber into that mix and you’re golden! I think these shoes will also translate well into into spring and summer with cutoff shorts and denim skirts.

Size Reference: I normally wear a size 6.5, but reviews said to size down so I got the 6. The 6 works, but I probably could have even gone down to the 5.5 like other reviewers suggested.

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4. The Women’s Nike Free RN Running Shoe

These might be the most comfortable pair of Nike sneakers that I’ve ever put on my feet. In fact, they’re so comfortable that you can go ahead and skip the “breaking in” process because I’m pretty sure that Nike already hired someone to do that for you before they even put them on the shelves. Obviously, I’m kidding, but they are extremely soft, cushiony and lightweight. Plus I always get compliments on how stylish they look.

Size Reference: runs TTS

5. The Adidas AlphaBounce Running Shoes

See a full review on these shoes here—> 3 Ways To Help You Stay Fit & Motivated During The Holidays

Size Reference: These shoes definitely run big. I had to go down to a half size.

The Adidas AlphaBounce Running Shoes in tan (also available here)

In case you missed my last post on these shoes, I bought the AlphaBounce in black first and I liked them so much that when I saw them in tan I had scoop up a second pair. This is actually another pair athletic sneakers that I always get compliments on in the gym. However, I didn’t buy two pairs of these just because they look cool! They’re also super cushiony, durable and breathable. Not to mention the fact that they can also be used as training shoes! Not just for running and looking cool at the gym. LOL

Size Reference: Just like the black pair above, this style definitely run big. I had to go down to a half size.

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The Nike ‘Air Max Thea SE’ Sneaker

I wouldn’t recommend taking these sneakers for a run because they aren’t as flexible and cushiony as my other Nike shoes, but they’re super cute with athleisure wear and everyday casual outfits.

Size Reference: runs TTS

My Top 16 Purchases Of 2016

January 2, 2017

Hi everyone, now that we’ve officially transitioned into a new year, I thought I would share my top 16 purchases of 2016 that I’m bringing with me into 2017 starting with the Jenni Saddle Bag!

The Jenni Saddle Bag (designed by Haute Off The Rack in collaboration with Gigi New York)

Call me biased, but I love this crossbody bag that I specifically designed for traveling and the girl on-the-go.

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2. The BlankNYC ‘Morning’ Suede Moto Jacket

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This jacket has been one of my best outerwear purchases of the season because it goes with everything including our crazy Louisiana weather! I haven’t just worn it at home though. I brought it with me to NYC and everywhere else that I’ve traveled since I purchased it! Last seen styled (here). I’m wearing the sz S and it fits perfectly and I can still fit a thin sweater beneath it. Oh and did I mention that I own it in three colors? LOL That’s how good it is!

3. The Beauty Blender— can you believe that I never tried using one until this year? I can’t because I’m hooked and have no clue how I’ve gone my whole life without one. The Beauty Blender makes such huge a difference in the way that I apply my makeup as well as the end results.

4. Ray-Ban Round Sunglasses

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I haven’t been able to stop wearing these rose gold beauties. I’m wearing the sz 53mm in the photo above, but I also love my sz 50mm too!

5. Diptyque ‘Essences Insensées – Rose de Mai’ Fragrance (Limited Edition) Parfum and Diptyque Baise Scented Candle

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I first received the Baise Scented Candle as a gift for my birthday last year and I didn’t even wait for it to burn out before I ordered a second. It smells heavenly! I always like to light it when I’m cleaning or when we have company over. As for the Diptyque eau de parfum, I got a tiny sample of it in a gift bag and got so many compliments when I wore it that I decided to buy it. I think it might the most expensive perfume that I’ve ever purchased, but it’s totally worth it. It smells so chic and fresh.

6. Pure Silk Pillowcase— This pillow case is anti-aging, anti-sleep crease and anti-bedhead! Talk about the ultimate beauty sleep! Plus it feels so smooth and silky against my face at night. I know this pure silk pillowcase is kind of an investment considering the price, but we spend a third of our lives in bed so why not treat ourselves to the best kind of beauty sleep! After all, we deserve it!

7. The Topshop Camel Coat

Not only do I wear this coat with everything and everywhere, but I also loved it so much that I bought a second one in this burgundy color. I’m wearing the sz US 2.

See how I styled the burgundy version here—> Christmas Day Outfit Idea

8. Marc Fisher ‘Alisa’ Booties— I’m pretty sure that I never took these booties off during fall and I even got them in grey and black too! They run TTS! See the full post here—> Fall Travel Outfit

9. The MZ Wallace Metro Backpack— I’ve said it before and I’ll say it again. The Metro Backpack is hands down the best travel bag ever! I never leave town without it and it also doubles as a great gym bag. See here—>Three Ways to Help You Stay Fit During the Holidays

10. The Adidas AlphaBounce Running Shoes

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The AlphaBounce running shoes are very comfortable and cushiony. Plus they look super sleek with my activewear looks. I’m also obsessed with them in the new tan color. For size reference, I ordered the size 6.5 for my first pair, which is my normal size. However, I’ve heard that for running shoes, you should always go a half size down because you want them to be nice and snug for extra support when running. With that being said, I could have easily gone with the size 6, but I don’t mind the 6.5, but with a thicker sock. I actually just bought a second pair in a different color and prefer the size 6.

11. Cami NYC Racer Camis & Velvet Tanks

To make a long story short, I ordered one of these Cami NYC Racer Tanks and then I never stopped. I’m pretty positive that I own one in every color as well as the velvet and these things aren’t cheap. That’s how much I love them! I consider all of my Cami NYC tanks year round wardrobe staples. I’m wearing a size S in the photo above, but I prefer the XS.

See how I’ve styled them in the below blog posts:

Sequin Bomber Jacket for NYE

Fall Trends To Try: The Lace Tank

Rose Gold Bomber + Lace Tank

Trend Obsession: Lace Tanks & Bomber Jackets

12. Oribe Gold Lust Dry Shampoo & Dry Texturizing Spray | Dry Bar Dry Shampoo & Triple Sec

Dry shampoo… y’all, the addiction is real! My boyfriend doesn’t understand why I don’t just wash my hair, but he just doesn’t get it. Dry shampoo is my life and I don’t remember what I did before it. I even use it when it may hair is perfectly clean because I love the added texture. As for the dry texturizing spray, it just amplifies your dry shampoo and gives you something to work with when it comes to styling your hair. I tried the Dry Bar and Oribe brands for the first time year and they work amazingly. Plus they smell so good!

13. Striped Slit Swing Tee

Always keep a good striped top in your wardrobe and feel free to add more when you come across super cute ones like this long sleeved top with side slits. It’s super comfortable ad comes in two other colors. I’m wearing the sz S.

14. Burberry Scarf

I have always coveted the Burberry Cashmere Scarf in the classic camel check color and this past holiday season I decided to finally bite the bullet and buy it. I’m so glad I did though because it’s a timeless accessory that I know I’ll wear in years to come. Plus I feel so luxe and grown up when I’m wearing it! LOL

15. Rebecca Minkoff Regan Satchel

The Rebecca Minkoff Regan satchel is the perfect everyday bag for the girl who always carries her life with her because it fits everything. I love it in this tan color and the grey.

16. Koral Lustrous Leggings

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These leggings are so flattering and comfortable that I bought an additional pair in case anything ever happens these. I also bought a couple of a other styles too for active wear outfits. I’m wearing the sz S and I usually wear a sz 26 in jeans. I also love these Alo Moto Leggings that I own two colors as well.

See how I’ve styled them in the posts below:

His & Hers New Year’s Day Style

Sleek Holiday Party Outfit

Chic Christmas Eve Outfit Idea

Sleek Holiday Travel Outfit

Secret Santa Game Idea For You & Your Friends