Waist Defining

I love tweed and I love bows, so when I saw Ginger Zee wearing this dress on Good Morning America last month. I immediately went to one of my favorite sites, ShopYourTV.com, to find out who designed it. It turns out, it's a CeCe by Cynthia Steffe dress!

My mom loved the dress, too, and it was her suggestion to add a belt. The brand tends to run a little large, so while the size four fit me up top, it was definitely too roomy at the waist. Instead of returning it, I added this Kate Spade bow belt to complete the look. I actually really like the way the belt helps break up the tweed print. Go Mom!

The photos below show Ginger Zee in the dress (sans belt). Do you like the dress better with or without the belt?

Dress: CeCe Chloe Tweed Bow Tie Dress

The dress is still available at several retailers:

• Amazon
• Belk
• Lord & Taylor (limited sizes)
• Macy's (limited sizes)
• Nordstrom

Also check out this similar style.

Sandals: BCBGMaxAzria Gale Caged Heel Sandals

On another note, is anyone watching 13 Reasons Why on Netflix? I finished episode two today, and am eager to watch the next one. I only allow myself to watch good shows like this one while working out; sometimes, when I'm tired, I need that extra motivation to get to the gym. It really helps -- I promise!

Working the Arms

I'm a big fan of Jillian Michaels and her workout videos, and she often reminds viewers that the arms are the one body part everyone sees naked... so they need to look "hot." The top of today's dress is very conducive to displaying the arms and shoulders. If you are working out and lifting weights, and want to show them off, search for a dress with a tank top silhouette (rounded neckline, close fitting, more open at the shoulders).

Speaking of tank tops, I practically live in Target tank tops during the summer. I have a wide selection of different colors that I just rotate through. They are so soft and comfortable... and cheap! The higher temperatures lately make me feel like spring will be here any day now. I can't wait.

I do feel it's important that all women do some kind of weight lifting to improve their bones and try to prevent osteoporosis. While I will probably forever think my arms look too "beefy" due to all my weight lifting, I don't think I will ever stop. It's too important for your overall health.

Today's dress details:

Dress: Shoshanna Vertical Stripe Bernadette Sweater Dress

In addition to Amazon Fashion (link above), the dress is still available at Shoshanna.com, Neiman Marcus and 6pm.com.

Sandals: BCBGMaxAzria Gale Caged Heel Sandals

These satin sandals are available at Nordstrom Rack (link above) or ShoeBuy.com. I think I got my pair for around $35. What a deal since they were originally $195.

On the lips: My mom commented this weekend that she loved my new lip color, so I thought I would mention it on the blog. I first line the lips using NARS Velvet Matte Lip Pencil in Bahama. I then fill in the rest of my lips with NARS Audacious Lipstick in Anita. I adore NARS makeup, particularly the eye shadows and lip options.