Leopard Loungewear and Simple Earrings

 I will never have enough leopard in my closet. With fall around the corner, yet knowing that I am still probably going to have to continue to be on a bunch of Zoom calls, I wanted to add some fun yet cozy new pieces to my closet.

1. Black Mock Neck :: I love the polished look. Throw on with faux leather leggings or black skinnies and be ready for a night on the town. 

2. Leopard Snap Up Fleece :: I bought the Amazon dupe a few years ago and you get what you pay for. This is already in my closet and I am obsessed. 

3. Tunic 3/4 Zip :: A friend had this on at golf league. The length is perfect and I love the softer color. 
4. Leopard Tunic :: This is also in my closet. I think the color is so unique. A little hard to tell but there is deep plum in the pattern. 
5. Drop Sleeve Crew Neck :: I am a sucker for a good crewneck. This would look great with a chambray button up under near for when you need something more polished. 

When going a little more casual with a sweatshirt it is easy to dress up your look with a great lipstick or a pair of earrings. I love statement earring but these daintier studs from my boutique are a great everyday look. 

Hammered Hearts (available in silver, gold & rose gold) | Pearl Huggies | Rebel Stud (also available in gold) | Sparkle & Spike Hoop | Roar Studs | Black Pave Hearts

Statement Earrings You'll Fall in Love With

Naked. That is how I feel without earrings on. I mean it can be hair in a ponytail, yesterday's mascara, sweatshirt off the pile off dirty clothes kind of day, but by slipping a pair of earrings on makes me feel that much more put together.

p.s. Lipstick works this way too. Lipstick and earrings are like partners in crime.

If you follow me on Instagram you'll notice that my earrings have gotten a little bigger and little more badaxx recently. I mean you really can't got wrong with statement earrings.

I have rounded up a few of my favorites. Yes, the statement earring is the perfect accessory for graduations and weddings and fancy parties. But, I promise you that they work just as well for a trip to Walmart (Target is 30 miles away from me), the ball park or a night out with friends.

Shocking that I would have a whole section on turquoise earrings. This is a color that looks great on everyone. It is perfect in summer, but I also love in fall and winter as a pop of color.

Before statement earrings use to mean heavy earrings that you were ready to ditch within an hour. I would say overall statement earrings have lightened up but if you are looking for the barely there feeling then these tassel options are the way to go.

And finally, remember that statement earring don't always have to be huge just fun. The next time you are in the J.Crew Factory story or Target, or shopping Baublebar online pick yourself up something up. I would love to see a photo.

This post may include affiliate links. 

Perfect Spring Loafers

When you are in the arm party business you take a lot of "wristies." And when you also love a good try on session and some power shopping comfortable shoes that will look good with almost anything are important. I have had these Gianni Bini loafers for a few years now, but over the past couple of weeks I have had more compliments on these shoes than I have any others.

Unfortunately, since they are so old they are no longer available but I have found some very similar options. As you are searching online also use the term driving moccasins or driving loafers if you are looking for this style.

I think what I love about these loafers over flat is that they have a support sole, which makes they so much more comfortable. Which pair is your favorite or maybe you have found a pair that you love that we all need to be in the know about!

This post may include affiliate links. 

Old Navy President's Day Sale

Old Navy is clearing feeding my cactus obsession. They also have tons of cute new items perfect for transitioning from winter to spring because it is VERY much still winter in Iowa.

Check out my CrystalCattle Instagram stories to see how each of these items fit. And you can click on any of the pictures to view on the Old Navy website and take advantage of some of the awesome sales.

This post may include affiliate links. 

Fill Your Cart Friday: Leopard is a Neutral

Leopard is a neutral is pretty sound fashion advice, and it never goes out of style. I have slowly started to transition my fall/winter wardrobe into my closet. So many of the pieces I look at and think "why did I buy that, I don't wear it nearly enough." This J. Crew sweater is one I have being wearing none stop and I know I wear year round. And now I am in LOVE with this simple leopard belt. It is the perfect way to add a little fun or dress up all my black sweaters.

I was so excited when Keep Collective launched this leopard print bracelet as a part of their September Collector's Edition. If you love it don't wait too long because this piece will go back into the vault on November 1.

And then last but not least, ending it with a little leopard for our feet. You might think I am crazy but I had to include a pair of sandals because there are some pretty warm temperatures in the near temperatures. Is anyone else ready for fall?

Easy, Reusable Easter Baskets

Who looked at the calendar this past week and went, "Holy cow, Easter is early!" If you are sitting there thinking 1. Where in the world are our Easter baskets and 2. What am I going to put in the dang things? I've got answers!

Keep Collective just released their new pouches and mine is already getting a ton of use. I can't wait to fill mine full of sunscreen, lipgloss and books to read when I head to Mexico in April. My iPad also fits in it perfectly, so it will make the perfect protective pouch when I head to Houston in a couple weeks for a business trip. And finally with Easter around the corner it will make the ideal Easter basket that can be reused over and over again.

I also love that I can pick any of Keep Collective's keys (charms) to go on the leather strap and personalize the pouch in seconds. Plus, in addition to the navy option there is also a hot pink bottomed pouch.

If you love fun notebooks than Target is the perfect place to do your Easter basket shopping. Cadbury Mini Eggs are my absolute favorite treat! It takes major will power for me to not eat an entire bag. The hope, faith and love charms on the pouch are perfect for Easter.

Next, for those younger Easter lovers I had to add the Little Blue Truck to the basket. I bought this book for my nephew and since he's 15 months old I've declared it is his favorite. Plus, an iTunes gift card will be perfect for downloading his favorite cartoon or game. I love the KIND key because all the proceeds go to the KIND Campaign that provide resources to stop bullying. 

Finally, show a little sports pride with this next pouch. Keep Collective has all kinds of keys to represent your or your kids' favorite sports. I am a huge fan of EOS lip balm. You can find it in pretty much any Walmart or Target check out lane, or at Ulta Beauty stores. I also love these markers. I am a big fan of fine tip Sharpies, but they were bleeding through my Erin Condren planner. These markers are the Staedtler brand and I found them at Target. 

If you need the perfect Easter basket I would love to help you with your Keep Collective purchase. All orders placed by midnight on Monday, March 21 will arrive in time for Easter. 

Eight Tips for Your Wedding Registry

It is hard to believe that the Boy and I are approaching our fourth wedding anniversary. Say what?!? The year that we got married, and the following year we did ALL the weddings. I am talking like six weddings in one summer. We had a lull for a couple years and now the next wave of friends getting married has begun.

Everyone will tell you picking out what you put on your registry is one of the best parts of wedding planning, and they are right! But, it can be hard to decide what are the items that you want to remain in your home for the rest of your life. After using our registry items for almost four years here is a little advice.

1. Get way more flatware than you think you'll need. Why? Because I think forks and knives have a missing sock club and will disappear. Oh and there will be the situation of your flatware will be discontinued and you'll be stuck trying to find something similar.

2. It is worth registering for nice pots and pans. Yes, these items can be expensive, but we found that the most expensive items on our registry were purchased first. Often guests want to go together and make a purchase therefor they purchase those larger ticket items. I was thrown a Pampered Shower shower and we purchased a lot of our kitchen ware through the party with our hostess credits. p.s. The Pampered Chef stuff is amazing and is still in the same condition it was when we received it four years ago.

3. Get a Kitchen-Aid Mixer. They are bomb and I use mine all the time. Even if you aren't a big baker they are great for dips and shredding meat. We also received a lot of the attachments, but honestly we haven't used them much. I do recommend a second bowl though. Our came with the metal bowl and then we registered for the glass.

4. It is worth registering for serving ware. Even if at this point in your life you aren't hosting Thanksgiving or big dinners at your house one day you will. It will save you a lot of money not having to run out to buy serving platters, bowls for mash potatoes, serving utensils.

5. However, we didn't register for China. Instead we went with a neutral white dinner plate from Pottery Barn, and then we also got a setting of bright turquoise plates. The white is nice because it goes with everything and every holiday, but we have the option of throwing a little color in there.

6. You will always use nice storage containers. We received some glass Pyrex and Pampered Chef containers and they are fantastic. Of course I use my share number of disposable Gladware pieces, but I love that I can reuse these over and over again.

7. Don't be afraid to register for those off the wall pieces that represent your passions or hobbies. We actually asked for a liquid nitrogen tank that stores bull semen and cow embryos. They are quite expensive, but something we knew we would really need for our farm. A group of our cattle friends went together to buy it for us and it is a great reminder of them.

8. Make sure you put enough stuff on your registry. I have talked to so many of my girlfriends that tell me, well we really don't need that much stuff or we are hoping to just get gift cards. There are going to be a lot of people that want to buy you a tangible gift, and if you run out of things on your registry they are going to by you something they "think" you will want. That is when you end up with stuff. Continue to check back and see how many items are left and if items have been discontinued, and don't be afraid to add more.

Update: Jon and I celebrated our eight year anniversary this spring and I will say everything that I recommended above we STILL have. Only a few of our Pottery Barn soup bowls have had to be replaced and I am really hard on things. After eight years our Pottery Barn sheets hit the dust. Our Shark vacuum only lasted six years but I think that is pretty good considering we have a dog and live on a farm.

Turquoise Thursday: KEEP Collective Arm Party

Remember when I first through out the term #armparty? Well, I've discovered the ultimate arm party thanks to my friend Sharlene at Country Girl City Wife. She new that I love turquoise and share with me some of her favorite KEEP Collective bracelet designs.

Not only do I love the turquoise bracelet, but the "live your dream" bar is perfect. I've ordered a bar for myself that says "all things are possible." That is the great thing about KEEP Collective is that ever band is customizable with hundred of charms, letters, numbers and gemstones to choose from. 

KEEP Collective is actually a sister company to Stella & Dot, and as you can see they love turquoise as much as all your Crystal Cattle fans. I have recently become a KEEP Collective stylist, and would love to help design the perfect KEEP bracelet or necklace for you. Don't worry it isn't a requirement that it contains turquoise ;) And if you really want to have some some fun ask me about hosting an online social. That way you'll earn shopping credit towards your very own arm party! 

In Style with Winter Weather Gear

Winter is here in Iowa. I've got the pictures to prove it. (OK maybe it was here, and now most of that snow has melted. Although when we are out feeding cows in that cold winter weather I'm not too concerned about fashion it is fun to try and find cute winter clothes. Especially for when I am out in town or headed to some of my favorite winter events like the National Western Stock Show in Denver, Colo. 

I think this green ruffle coat would work quite well. Not only is emerald the in color of 2013, I am also a huge fan of ruffles. Plus, if you spend more than $50 at Cavendar's you get free shipping. Pretty important to this girl since the UPS man knows me so well. 

I have been seeing these faux fur vests all over Pinterest lately, and Suzie at UrbanCountryStyle had a really cute one on her blog, but it was sold out. However, after a little searching I came across this one. I think it would look great with some skinny jeans and boots. Here comes the really good news - it is currently on sale! 

I also like this pink Under Armour half zip. Nothing wrong with a little pop of color when thinks are a little grey out. 

What is your favorite way to stay warm when winter hits?

*This is a sponsored post brought to you by Cavendar's. The thoughts and reviews are completely my own opinions. 

Turquoise Thursday: F21 Turquoise Jewelry Steals

One of my favorite Pinterest Boards to follow is chloe (the chloe conspiracy). I have mentioned her blog a lot, but her steals and deals Pinterest Board always pleases.

 On Chloe's Steals and Deals Board is where I found this great statement necklace. I love the little pop of turquoise color. Wouldn't this look great against a crew neck sweater. 

How can you beat these turquoise drop earrings at $1.50!

Turquoise Thursday: Black Friday Shopping

Open up those pocket books.

Who will be Black Friday, Small Business Saturday or Cyber Monday shopping? Just in case you are needing a few ideas check out these turquoise deals. 

Not only is this beautiful J.Crew turquoise coat 40% off, but use coupon code GIVEANDGET and get another 15% off and free shipping on orders over $100. 

Check out this linen turquoise dress from the Loft. It is already on sale for $59.99, but with coupon code ENJOY you can get another 40% off! Steal of a deal. 

Cowgirl Crush has all kinds of deals starting tomorrow. Check out all their deals ranging from free shipping to 15% to 25% off all just in time to score this mint cardigan.

Everything online at Express is 50% including these colored skinny jeans. I have a pair of tall riding boots on my Christmas list some of these jeans would go great with them. 

What great deals have you found? Even though a lot of these sales are pretty tempting I really try not to buy anything for myself during this time of year since we are so close to Christmas. Plus, there will be a lot of pumpkin calling my name today so the shopping will have to wait. 

Turquoise Thursday: Winter Gear

It's getting cold outside.

So I really couldn't complain because it probably won't be that cold outside it I just put on a proper coat, but I am not quite ready to give us my beautiful fall days. Yet below freezing night time temperatures might force me to make a change. The 70% change of rain on Saturday that is supposed to show up while we are watching Kansas State dominate Iowa State also is making me want to dig out our winter coats.

What better way to put yourself in a cold weather mood than some new turquoise winter clothing.

Has anyone been on the Northface site? They have all their new winter coats out and lots of turquoise winter coat options. 

This one is kinda cool too. To be honest I'll probably just stick with basic black (again) however I would love to layer a turquoise jacket like this underneath. 

I thought this minty green color was pretty, but I need something without a hood. When I can't detach hoods from coats it drives me crazy. They call this the Decagon Jacket. 

OK, I know this jacket isn't turquoise but I had to show it. I can't quite determine how warm is would be, but isn't this tunic jacket great. I prefer the black version but this heather white showed the details so much better. 

Are you ready for winter? 

All dressed up: black, leopard and sparkle

Time to celebrate

This weekend the Boy and I were wedding goers. It was fun being at a wedding the day before our 6 month anniversary. Parts of our wedding day were such a blur, so it is always nice to sit back and reflect on the biggest day of our lives. May sound cliche, but so far it really has been.

What did I pull out of the closet for this occasion? Well it was so cold out you don't get to see the cute black strapless dress I had on, but don't worry my accessories will made up for it.

I am crazy about this leopard scarf I got at Top Shop last year, and I am glad that Fall is finally here and I can break it out. Here, and here and here are similar versions. My other outerwear staple is a long wool coat I got at Old Navy a few years ago. Be watching Old Navy brings back the best black wool/pea coats every year. Promise. 

Remember how I was crazy about ILY Couture jewelry. Well I finally got me some. This pave bracelet was awesome. Keep on eye on the Ily Couture Facebook page because they are always have Facebook offers (yes, they actually work). 

Has anyone been to J.C. Penny lately? Yeah, they have really stepped up there game. I got a beautiful red scarf there the other day and picked up these earring. They Boy even asked me where I got them from. Bonus points to him for noticing, and bonus points for me for finding awesome deals. These earrings aren't on their website however if you are looking for something similar, but not a deal check out these David Yurman earrings. I love David Yurman. Too bad money didn't grow on trees. 

What is going to be your fall or winter go to accessory? 

Turquoise Thursday: Country Outfitter Stop Posting Pictures

We are pleading with you. 

A while ago I liked Country Outfitters on Facebook. Simply put they hands down have the biggest, most amazing variety of cowboy boots. I want to own them all. They take me on these incredible highs, squeals of excitement and then I have to jump off the cloud and tell myself Crystal you can not get yourself another pair of boots (yet). 

So what do I do when I really like something but know I shouldn't buy it. I blog about it. Hoping that one of my readers might treat themselves and I therefore can live through you. Your husbands can thank me for helping you spend your money instead of my own. 

I blame my friend Jenny. I had no idea that these Corral Turquoise Floral Tool boots even existed until she posted them on my Crystal Cattle Facebook Page. Now I can't stop starring. Corral you do a mighty fine job with your boots. 

Next the Ariat Cabrella Cowboy Boot. Just enough turquoise to make me happy, and yet still be practical. 

You want turquoise, you've got it. Another great turquoise boot from Corral. 

And finally I end with these. Turquoise, copper and black. Cowboy Boot perfection. 

Now whose is getting their credit cards out. 

Tailgating T-shirts and Underwear

It is football season. 

Eek! That pretty much explains how excited I am when Saturdays roll around. I mean was is better than spending time with friends, gorging yourself on tailgating food while cheering on your favorite team. Nothing. OK maybe being at a cattle show. I really like those too.

This weekend the Boy and I with a bunch of other friends headed down to Iowa City for the Hawkeyes vs Iowa State game. The majority of them are Iowa fans, which suits me just fine. I bleed K-State purple and there is no way I am cheering for that other Big 12 team - Iowa State.

The day worked out perfect. We had a big screen at our tailgate so that meant I got to watch the K-State game at eleven (and we dominated) and then we watched the Iowa game in the afternoon. That one didn't go so hot. They lost, but it wasn't to a good team by any means. I declared that neither team really should have won because they both did way more wrong than right.

By the end of the day I think I had won some K-State fans. I mean they played great and the K-State Mask videos definitely raised our level of cool.

I knew that during the tailgate it would be proper to support the Boy's team, but I needed to represent my team. Thankful to Threads, this awesome T-shirt store in Manhattan, KS, I was able to make my plan a reality.

Presenting my K-State Girls Like Iowa Boys T-shirt. Threads does all kinds of custom work, and will ship anywhere. The shirt ended up being almost $30 I think. They carry American Apparel clothing, which I love because of their super soft shirts, but be warned their women's sizes runs little small. This is a size medium and it fit perfect. 

I wasn't the only one with a unique piece of clothing though. A gentlemen showed up pretty early to our tailgate with something he called Game Day Undies. 

Our best man's dad decided to big a pair for himself. The idea is that with these boxer briefs you can successfully sneak your own alcohol into games. You never are quite sure what you'll see at a tailgate. 

Here's to another great weekend and a countdown to Saturday. 

Turquoise Fashion Bloggers

They cause me to want to shop way too much. 

Just a quick post today because last night a kink was thrown into any blogging plans. We had just got home from picturing some of the heifer calves we have for sale at the farm. Think cattle model/cover shoot. I had supper on the stove and the boy jumped in the shower. Suddenly, he reappeared from the bathroom and announced that the water had stopped working mid-shower. The part where you still have shampoo in your hair.

That afternoon the power company had been burying a cable and I guess our line got cut or something. The result of no water meant a night at the inlaws house. But today is a new day and Turquoise Thursday so lets begin.

First of all my friends know me too well. This sweet gift arrived in the mail from Holli. Perfect #armparty. You can find a similar cross bracelet here, and the other bracelet is David Yurman.

I want this J.Crew turquoise coat! If you haven't been to The Chloe Conspiracy you must check out her blog. 

Also check out my K-State loving friend Sheridan's blog Wimmer Wimmer Chicken Dinner. She is becoming quite the fashion blogger and I love her Old Navy turquoise pants. 

And that is all folks. I'll have an update on our awesome State Fair trip very soon.

Turquoise Thursday: Running in Style

Getting my workout on. 

Awhile ago I posted on my Facebook page that I had started Couch to 5K. During all my travel this summer I figured I should probably make use of the hotel treadmill. In five weeks I got almost all the way through week four of the program. Not too bad.

Then I got home and stopped. However, the Boy and I talked it over and decided to get a treadmill of our own. Well it arrived yesterday! So now it is time to get back on my feet and do a little running.

I posted a picture of my turquoise running shoes awhile ago, but figured if I stick with this running thing I might deserve a few new pieces of clothing.

Like this turquoise Nike running top. I think the straps are really unique. I know it is supposed to be about the running, but I like clothes more than running. Pure honesty, right there. 

I picked up some gray and white Nike shorts at Dillards when I started running, and this Nike stripped top would match them perfectly. p.s. I actually don't like running that much, I just love the feeling I get afterwards and I sleep so much better. 

And this one is great too. I love the little bit of lime green. I really do like lime green it just is usually not very practical to wear. 

I am in love with the Nike shorts that I bought this summer. Not only are they perfect for running in, but they have also been perfect for washing cattle in these few weeks that I haven't been running! 

And finally I had to post this picture of our new baby calf. Typically we calve all the cows in March, April and May, but she was a late one. I think we are going to name her "Nothing Compares" in honor of the Iowa State Fair slogan. If you are going to be at the Iowa State Fair this weekend we'll have some of our Hereford cattle in the beef barns. Stop by and say hello. 

Corn Report: J.Crew and dry corn

Fashionable in the corn field. 

After being gone from home for the past week, I could really notice a difference in the corn field. It was dry before, however it is really dry now. So although, we are a little bummed about the corn I had a rocking outfit to wear to the wedding we went to this weekend. Win some, lose some I guess.

Who says you can't wear heels to the corn field. I wore them to the barnyard to feed cows last week.

Heels Nine West

It's been back to back wedding weekends for the Boy and I. Our cows are going to expect us to come dressed up to the barnyard all the time. 

I look cute, but our corn kind of looks sad. And thirsty.

Jacket Banana Republic (similar jacket), dress J. Crew Outlet, turquoise necklace J. Crew Outlet. 

Two weeks ago the corn leaves had started to curl and roll a little. In those two weeks we only got a couple tenths of an inch and that has not helped the situation at all. Healthy corn plants will usually reach about 8 feet tall by mid-summer, and their roots about 6.5 feet deep. Obviously, we can't see underground so the leaves are telling us what the plant is going through. One a positive note our crops had good soil and moisture conditions at the beginning of the season so these corn plants that you are looking at should have strong healthy roots. 

Now if any of your live in Florida we would love you to send us some rain. Also, please send some rain to Colorado. We certainly have all the people affected by the fires in our prayers.

Turquoise Thursday: Simple Turquoise Jewelry

Sometimes less is more. 

I love turquoise, but sometimes you only need a little bit to make a splash.

Like one of these bracelets. Obviously the turquoise one is my favorite, but I also think they also look really cute all together. Both this bracelet and the next are from SinClaireDesigns on Etsy. 

This turquoise cross bracelet comes in both gold and silver. Also get happy because both bracelets are only $12! Whose going shopping?

I think this simple beaded turquoise bracelet is my favorite of the three. It is a little more expensive at $25, but I think I could layer this with a lot of bracelets I already have a create a fun little #armparty. The bracelet is from Aden Creations on Etsy and they have some beautiful delicate necklaces as well. 

Hope everyone has been having a great week. I am finally home for a week straight and it has been awesome. The Boy and I have spent every night at the farm working with the cattle. It is a busy time of year because we are working on getting all the cows bred. Some will  be bred by the bull and others through A.I. (artificial insemination). I also was able to get my second Watching the Corn Grow post up. If you haven't read it yet check it out. I reveal what corn pop is. 

I'm also linking up with Rural Thursday. Be sure to check out some of the other great posts.