Boho Babe (at the Barbeque)

Every girl needs an ensemble (or two) that is accessible whether they're feeling their best or not so much. Not too long ago, I was having one of those days and happened to feel like a whale getting ready to step out for lunch. Then, I realized that the majority of my wardrobe consisted of mostly form fitting sexiness. This is ok, but, every girl needs something they can feel sexy wearing even though it doesn't necessarily highlight their voluptuous curves. I was so excited to receive this two-piece set from Rebdolls' by Grisel category, because I knew it would be precisely what I was seeking.

The Boho Blossom set's fit is "true to size"; I'd say you can even size down if you're smaller at the bottom. Just don't size up. I usually wear a 1X in Rebdolls apparel, but opted for a 2X because I really wanted to display "boho chic" ... which is free-flowing, not form-fitting. The top fit almost perfectly, but I had to adjust the waist of my pants (a life long struggle of mine). Nothing major, though. The mostly Polyester (with a Spandex blend) fabric chosen for the set is definitely ideal, as it is light practically bounces off your skin as you walk. It was 90 degrees out and it allowed just enough wind through its pore to keep me cool (as possible, within the HOT Florida circumstances). I'm 5'6 and the pants were long and tapped the ground, but did not drag. I tried it on with wedge heels and it still was not make the pants too short. 

My destination was a Memorial Day cookout, and I wanted to ensure I'd still be comfortable after I ate enough homemade mac-n-cheese to keep me full all week *slick grin*. I looked the same after I became "bloated" and still felt cute/ comfortable. The wrap-around sash attached to the crop top can be tied at the back, or wrapped around twice and tied at the front (multi-way). Like all Rebdolls sets, you have the option to be versatile. Wear just the Boho Blossom pants with a Rebdolls tank top or statement tee instead and really upgrade your comfort level for the day! Wear just the Boho Blossom crop top with the Rebdolls Perfect Ponte pants or mix prints with the striped midi skirt to really get spruced up.  

I mean REALLY. Come on! What's not to love about this dark, cozy, floral ensemble?

Shop the Unapologetic Fashions of Rebdolls NOW! 

Tulle' Drool (G I V E A W A Y)

***UPDATE: Closed. No more Submissions**


By now, I’m sure you've seen my 5/20/15 #OOTD featuring a deluxe, tulle maxi skirt. Tulle skirts are all the rage, but are usually rocked in mini or midi form.  Wearing a maxi tulle takes the garment to such a fancy level. But, I’m an uncanny character. I don’t mind being “overdressed” (is there such thing in 2015?!); being “under dressed’ is a greater fear for me personally.

Digressing, I've received such great feedback regarding the garment that I've decided to do a giveaway! I part ways with lots of featured garments locally, but this one will be online for my distant readers.This garment has a $128 value.

RULES:

1)    Must wear between a size 14-22 bottom (or the prize won’t fit, sorry).

2)    On Instagram, re-post the giveaway picture of me wearing the mint tulle skirt, with the caption proclaiming:

“@Charisma_Monroe looks (INSERT ADJECTIVE) in this luxurious, tulle maxi. I feel most (INSERT SAME ADJECTIVE) when (INSERT RESPONSE)”

3)    Make sure I comment, or I didn't get your submission.  Don’t be scared to re-tag me. I'll be taking the first 20 entries ONLY! Ends 5/23/15 (or when slots are full).

4)     I’ll determine the winner (& a backup) by way of a random drawing, and announce it on here & IG on Sunday, May 24, 2015. Must respond to win in a timely manner.

5)     Please take a pic & tag me (whenever you decide) to wear it!

EASY!

Seven Fads (#SummerChallenge) - Test One

Did you catch my post about 7 fads i'd like to take part in this upcoming Summer? Some were trends I noticed that I adored and just haven't tried out yet, some have actually been a little intimidating to me. But, i'm HERE for breaking down a barrier or two. So i'll dive in all 7 before Fall.

If you missed it-----> Here it is!

On this lovely Sunday, I decided to get into listed fad number 5: Dark Floral & Lace. During a season where pastels and brightly colored floral and white lace easily flourish, I wanted to show that darkness is not off limits. I kept it fairly classic, but pair black with neon for a more "fun" look.

OOTD Deets:

Lace Outerwear - Forever 21 (Standard Sizes)

Peek-a-Boo Swimsuit - Forever 21 (Plus Sizes, 2X Top, 1X Bottom) 

Jeweled Sandals - Local Shoe Store 

Bold Lip - MAC Ruby Woo

Stay tuned over the weeks for the remaining 6 tests! 

CTRF Style Tip

When you find something that is super cute, versatile, fits you well, compliments some of your best features, and is simultaneously comfortable ... my most vital suggestion is to purchase more than one of the garment. Whether it be in a different color for a different day, or the same to stash away, you need two! Nothing like going to the original source and the item is long gone, #LifeStory. Backup is always convenient/ desired. 

Sent from Curvaceous Boutique, also available in pink/ navy print

This is the yellow Chiquita Girl Set from Curvaceous Boutique.

 I also have a solid purple set, the Bridget, from 247 Posh Closet. 

Sent from 247 Posh Closet, also available in white

I really liked these sets primarily because they were crop top sets (of course). The mermaid skirts (form-fitting knees up, flare knee down)  are truly flourishing this season because they are femme & flirty. This type of skirt + the flare of the blouse made the set really cozy and still allowed me to be cutesy as ever. Feel free to swap the skirt for some jeans and get SUPER casual/ chill, or do like me and swap the bouncy blouse for a bikini top & make it a Couture Beach Day. Versatility. Hope you enjoyed these Spring Ready looks! 

Bikini Top from Forever 21 + (now SOLD OUT)

7 Fads I'll Test This Summer (#SummerChallenge)

1) Denim on Denim

Wearing several garments of denim together has been the  trend for quite some time now. I must say, initially, I didn't like it at all. I didn't like the idea of the two denims not matching. I've seen so many super cute denim on denim OOTD ensembles since then, and that who matching thing doesn't matter to me now. I love the ease of the trend. 

2) Denim Shorts

Shorts are always kind of iffy for me. I can count the number of times I've worn them in my adult life. That's not to say i'm not comfortable with putting them on my body, but I know what works for me. Shorts tend to get caught up in in my crotch and ate up by my thighs, so I avoid them. I HAVE TO HAVE a pair of denim cuffed shorts and cutoffs for the summer, though. To avoid disaster, I went to the store and tried out several sizes & varieties of the garment. I also sized up to prevent excessive gathering/ camel toe and ensure a nice fit (since denim doesn't stretch much). 

3) Kimonos

I've already been dipping into this trend over the past year. I am in complete LOVE with an over-sized, flowing, printed kimono. They're just so chic, and so easy. Solid, fitted bottom + t-shirt or crop top + kimono = out the door. I like the cozy feel of them also, especially when they drape over my butt. It's like i'm in my robe in the house. A chiffon kimono has been my go to swimsuit cover up as well. The light weight and free flow of the garment makes it just PERFECT. 

4) White Footwear

I have HATED white shoes for long enough. To me, before, they always appeared to look to cheap and tacky. It's like you just can't avoid the scuffs and the filth with white shoes. I've recently had a change of heart, though. White shoes can really make a very dark or even a Spring/ floral ensemble pop. I bought 2 pairs this week & can't wait to style them! 

5) Dark (Vintage) Floral & Lace

Speaking of floral, this is considered the season for to rock it. But I see a lot of vivid, "bubblegum" floral and white lace. It's still safe to wear a vintage floral print (neutral colors & pastels) or even a black lace ensemble during this season. These options are not off limits (for me anyway). 

6) Free Flowing Attire

Like the kimono, a free-flowing garment is so simple and so ideal for this scorching weather. It's so feminine and glides with your movement as the wind twirls through the layers of the fabric. I have avoided it before, because it indeed conceals your curves/ waistline ... and I guess i'm a show off. However, like the model, a fitting bottom or no bottom at all (as a dress) will put your curves/ skin back on display as you rock these types of pieces. 

7) More Streetwear

I'm such a girly girly girly girl, I would really like to try more looks that consist of track suits, joggers, sneakers, and other casual wear. Creme de la Curves sent me this "Flawless" floral track suit that I just LOVED when I wore it. I have such an agenda, and have realized that dressing (not only cute, but practically) is a major concern of mine nowadays. 

Anything you plan on trying out this Summer?