Mother's Day Gift Buying Reco: FAB FIT FUN @FabFitFun SPRING 2014 BOX! #FFFVIP

#ad: A FabFitFun Box was provided for Editorial Consideration. I am a member of the #FFFVIP program.

I am a FabFitFun VIP Member and recently received their Spring 2014 Box. Here is a review on the last box I received.  I had the chance to attend a live tweet up last year with Giuliana Rancic and co-host a twitter party in conjunction with the P&G #GIVEHope 'Do it for the Girls' campaign. If you missed that post, you can check it out HERE.

Meeting Giuliana in person and hearing her story inspired me because there is a history of Cancer in my family, to get my first ever Mammogram early. Cancer does NOT discriminate and youth is not a shield against it!

Giuliana developed a subscription box service called FabFitFun where she curates a collection of great products spanning beauty, wellness, health, fitness and fashion to help you feel good from the inside out (which of course is very much our motto here at Ascending Butterfly!).

Out of ideas on what to get mom this year? How about a FabFitFun Box Subscription? It's a gift that will let her know you are thinking of her YEAR ROUND, not just one day of the year. And the box spans such a wide product range it will help her find new favorites!

"It's the perfect way to kickstart your happy and get more from life every day!"

Here is a picture of the Spring 2014 Box which I recieved below:

Spring 2014 FabFitFun Box - I propped it up on my bed in front of my pillows so I could feel like it was a welcome basket from a Spa!

What is in the box? Glad You Asked:

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Kai Perfume Oil - ARV $48 - I reviewed the Body Butter from Kai back in 2010, which you can check out HERE - just remember the giveaway component to that post is closed off to any new entries or comments!) I love Kai products so I am super stoked to have the perfume oil (perfect size for travel!)

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Cover | FX SPF 30 Protection Primer - ARV $38 - I love priming my skin especially before using a powder/mineral foundation.

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Mini Stability Ball and Breathing & Muscular Release DVD System - ARV $28.94 - This is going to really help me kickstart my Spring Fitness Routines, I was super excited to find this one in my FabFitFun Box!

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Dermasuri Deep Exfoliating Mitt - ARV $19.99 - This is actually a body scrub AND body treatment. The unique fabric sloughs off dead skin cells, making the skin surface ready for even tanning as well as self-tanning products, improves circulation, stimulates collagen production which fights aging skin appearance and it also evens skin tone to prevent dullness. (Also gentle enough to use post sunburn to slough off the peeling skin!) I am BIG on body exfoliation followed by a body oil when my skin is still warm and then a body butter later in the evening. I have to admit I am a bit obsessed with this mitt!

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Cult Gaia Turband - ARV $48 - I have honestly never worn a Turban, so we'll see how this works out but mine has a 'cherries' pattern on it, I'm more of an animal print person myself (I think the 'Ally' would have been more me or butterflies of course, but I don't see anything with Butterflies on them) - These are lined with wire so they are bendable and totally adjustable! And I love that they are HANDMADE in Los Angeles.

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Oscar Blandi Pronto Dry Shampoo Invisible Spray - ARV $25 - Nothing extends the life of a quality blow-out better than a good Dry Shampoo. I was a bit of a late comer to this trend, but I am finally getting what all the buzz is about. Particularly as my hair is super long right now, so when I get a blow out done I love having a way to extend the life of it. This one sprays clear, removes excess oil and product build-up, boosts volume and has gentle starches and Vitamin E and Wheat Proteins which strengthen and protect the hair. It uses Lemon Verbena to provide a fresh, clean fragrance.

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Level Naturals Shower Bombs - ARV $7.99, Four Pack - Think of these as a Bath Bomb's kid sister. You drop one of these at the bottom of the shower near your feet under direct water away from the drain and allow the Organic Menthol and Eucalyptus to clear your mind, while the Tea Tree essential oils help your tired feet at the same time! It's a quick Aromatherapy Home Spa Session!

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - The Better Chip Spinach and Kale with Sea Salt - ARV $1.99 - These are great to have in the pantry to help conquer those 'savory' cravings with something that offers the same bold flavor with a lot less fat!

My Take:

The best things about a subscription box is discovering a great new product, or a brand that is new to you. And what is better than finding a product new to you from a brand you already love?

What mom wouldn't love to know you are thinking about them year round?

I would definitely suggest this box subscription as a gift for Mom or for anyone really! (And why not pick up one for yourself while you are at it?)

It's actually difficult to pick a favorite this time around, but I have always wanted a stability ball and I keep saying I'm going to pick one up and forget, so I'm really excited to finally have one and try to incorporate it into my fitness plan to gear up for summer! I have already got the perfect new swimsuit (more details on that soon I promise), so I need to get it in gear before I hit the beaches this summer!

I provided URL's to all the brands above in the list of contents so you could get social with them as well, but don't forget to get social with FabFitFun too!

Get Social with FabFitFun:

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - 'Like' FabFitFun on Facebook
Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Follow @FabFitFun on Twitter
Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Pin with FabFitFun on Pinterest
Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Subscribe on YouTube
Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Hang out with FabFitFun on Tumblr

I'm definitely looking forward to trying out my next box (I hear the summer box is going to be pretty awesome too! and if you follow them on facebook you'll get some spoilers!), and this would definitely be a thoughtful gift for someone you know who is in the hospital or home getting treatments, I know this would have put a smile on my face while I was in the hospital during most of 2012 that's for sure. (And remember some floors do not allow patients to have flowers and some patients also have food restrictions, but usually beauty products are not banned, just call ahead to be sure).





Coupon Code: Save $5 until July 15th by using the code SUMMER5

Which of these products would you most like to try? Which is your favorite subscription Beauty Box Service and why?

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FTC Disclosure: I received a FabFitFun Spring 2014 Subscription Box for Editorial Consideration, however all opinions are 100% my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission 16 CFR, Part 255 - Guides Concerning the use of endorsements and testimonials in advertising, you may visit our full giveaway and disclosure page for complete policy information. This post contains affiliate links.

My Spring #Fashion FAVES + Enter for a chance to win a $100 #GiftCard to shop at @IGIGI

This giveaway is sponsored by:

Old Man Winter hasn't totally let go of his grip here in the North East, and today is a cool, rainy one here in 'the big apple'. I'm not letting the rain dampen my Spring thinking, and our friends at IGIGI put some Spring Like Pep back in my step after I viewed their new 'The Fresh Sophisticate' Collection.

The collection includes an array of mood brightening florals, decidedly fun Polka Dots, colorful spring alternatives to the 'Little Black Dress' that are all figure flattering and drop dead gorgeous! And I can assure you that is how you will feel while you are wearing them.

I was so inspired I created a Polyvore set with my top two favorites from the collection! First up is the Vintage Floral Plus Size Dress by IGIGI:

This is what I call the adult version of a 'sundress', and it is my favorite because it fits the name of the look book to a perfect tee, this is "The Fresh Sophisticate". This is fun, floral, fresh and sophisticated, florals don't have to look 'dated', 'boring' or 'old-fashioned' in plus, they can be flirty, fun, sophisticated and stylish. I am LIVING for this dress this season butterflies and it goes from Spring straight into Summer with a change of accessories.

My second pick from The Fresh Sophisticate Collection from IGIGI is a different color scheme, but it's also a super hot floral, it's the Janus Hot Floral Dress that is as equally style forward and fun as the Vintage Floral and as decidedly feminine, see below:

I am normally not a 'pink' type of gal, but this dress is my exception. It's a grown up pink with touches of spring/summer blues and greens against the Black with the cinched in waistline, this dress is just as bold of a feminine style as the Vintage Floral.

You will see me sporting both of these Dresses very soon butterflies I promise, I am saving them up for an upcoming conference, but I didn't want to make you guys wait for a chance to get your own dresses, so I decided to post the giveaway to keep you guys busy while I am gone, and I will close it a bit after I return from the Mom 2.0 Summit in Atlanta. (If you will be there I'd love to meet you in person tweet me and let me know!)

WIN IT:

TWO Lucky Butterflies have a shot at a $100 Gift Card to IGIGI to add a new Spring Dress to your own wardrobe. Use the Rafflecopter Widget/Link below to enter. As always our 'main entry' is easy peasy, and once  you do the main entry you unlock a ton of fun extra credit entries.

a Rafflecopter giveaway

My Take:

IGIGI has brought me back into wearing dresses way more often and these two are going to be in heavy rotation in my wardrobe this Spring right into Summer, personal photos of me wearing these to come.

What is YOUR favorite Dress from the IGIGI "The Fresh Sophisticate Collection" Butterflies? (Commenting with your answer to this question gets you an extra credit in the giveaway!)

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FTC Disclosure: IGIGI provided Ascending Butterfly with product for Editorial Consideration, all opinions are 100% my own!  I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission 16 CFR, Part 255 - Guides Concerning the use of endorsements and testimonials in advertising, you may check our Giveaway and Disclosure Page for additional information regarding Ascending Butterfly Disclosure.

{#Photo} What does @MaseratiNYC, @WallisFashion and @koobabags have to do with each other? #WordlessWednesday

So what does Maserati, Wallis Fashion and Kooba Handbags have to do with one another? ME of course! I attended a very smart Fashion Event (which I will share a full recap on very soon) that was held at the Maserati Showroom in New York City, don't you just love the red funnel neck coat by Wallis Fashion I am wearing? I'm carrying a Kooba Handbag. Fashion and Fast Cars? Just another day in New York City my friends, just another day in the city that never sleeps!

Happy Wordless Wednesday Butterflies! (Bloggers you are always welcome to post the URL to your Wordless Wednesday Posts, however no giveaway links here, thanks!)

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FTC Disclosure: This is NOT a Sponsored Post. I have not been compensated to share this photo.

Stay stylish despite the Polar Vortex with @EMUAustralia #Fashion #Polyvore

EMU AUSTRALIA WINTER POLYVORE BOARD

While I am looking forward to Spring (I am an April Baby so Spring is definitely my season), I am staying warm and stylish during the Polar Vortex with Emu Australia whose Premium Sheepskin and Merino Wool Footwear and Fashions are definitely where form and function meet with style!

Here are some close ups of the styles pictured in the polyvore set above:

The Emu Australia Roseberry Jacket in color 'Chocolate' offers the ease, comfort and softness of a cardigan with the style of a favorite leather jacket, with knit inserts to assure a perfect fit, and add contrast, this has quickly become a personal fave this winter! (This style is now sold out, but there are a ton of great alternatives!)

The Emu Australia Agnes Boot (also pictured in the color 'Chocolate) offers a plush raw edged sheepskin finish, leather belt details with logo buckle and a cleated rubber outsole for traction.  

The Emu Australia Agnes Boot is a versatile stunner that can be worn up or down to reveal it's fur interior, these biker boots offer both style and comfort and the 'breathable' Sheepskin keeps your feet warm in winter and cool in summer to give you multi-season wear!

My Take:

I know that these will become winter wardrobe staples for you like they are for me! With super versatility, comfort, warmth, great details and a stylish edge, what's NOT to love?

Tell us Butterflies, what is your favorite EMU AUSTRALIA Style? Link us to it!

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FTC Disclosure: I have NOT been compensated to create this Polyvore set. I was however provided with Product Samples for Editorial Consideration. However, all opinions are 100% my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission 16 CFR, Part 255 - Guides Concerning the use of endorsements and testimonials in advertising, you may visit our full giveaway and disclosure page for complete policy information.

@PeterPilotto #peterpilottofortarget @TargetStyle @ABullseyeView #Fashion

Pictured Above: PETER PILOTTO for Target Bikini Top in Green Floral Print ($22.99), Pant in Green Floral Stripe Print ($39.99), Tote in Green Floral Print ($39.99), Slip-On Shoe in Green Floral Print ($29.99) *Target.com Exclusive | Available Globally on Net-A-Porter.com - Photos Above Provided by Target, but the Collage is by yours truly!

We are just weeks away from a new 'Must-Have' Fashion Collaboration, and Ascending Butterfly got the chance to check out the new PETER PILOTTO Collection for Target on Monday night up close and personal.

Peter Pilotto and Christopher De Vos the London-based design duo behind PETER PILOTTO are collaborating with Target for a bold, bright, Spring womenswear collection which will make its debut on February 9, 2014.

PETER PILOTTO for Target will feature approximately 70 items, including dresses, skirts, clutches, swimwear, Totes, and even Slip on Shoes with most items retailing for less than $60 - making the collection not just fun but affordable! Taking home a little luxe at a price that won't break the bank is sure to put a 'spring' in your step, and with the bright cheery colors and bold prints I am pretty sure it's like nothing you already own.

With a nod to the brand's UK roots, Target is making the collection available to international fans as well via online luxury retailer Net-a-Porter which will carry a curated assortment of this limited-edition collection. You will find bold color combinations - like blues and greens or warm reds with mixed oranges (some of my personal favorites), some sculpted silhouettes and very smart use of color blocking as well.

I'll give you a mix of my shots at the Press Event and their pro shots of the line so you can get a good feel:

Pictured Above: PETER PILOTTO for Target Blazer in Blue/Black/White Colorblock Jacket ($49.99), Shirt in Red Floral Print ($19.99), Pant in Black/Check Print ($34.99)

Above: I am absolutely LOVING this jacket! I personally would not wear it with something with a print under it as shown, I'd go solid, but this jacket is probably the most 'me' piece in this collection! But as a typical all things black clothes loving New Yorker, I guess it's no surprise that this jacket would be my standout favorite.

Pictured Above: PETER PILOTTO for Target Belted Dress in Red Floral Print ($44.99)

Above: This is probably more print all at once than I'd personally do, but I adore the color combo, red/black/white and grey are a personal fave of mine, I will admit the stripe makes a very slimming optical illusion for the eye, so this may be one I need to try on myself before I decide!

Pictured Above: PETER PILOTTO for Target Dress in Purple Floral Print ($69.99) COLLAGE - Dress is being worn on top of Shirt in Green Floral Print pictured at the top left of the collage ($19.99)

I think it's clever how the dress is being worn right on top of the Shirt in the Green Floral Print in Purple Floral Print (if your summer arms are not quite in shape yet, having a little sleeves in a nice lightweight material is perfect!

Above, Top Left: PETER PILOTTO for Target Sweatshirt in Light Blue Floral/Check Print ($29.99). Pant in Black/Check Pring ($34.99), Above Right Solo Shot Model is wearing Bikini Crop Top in Black/White Pring ($24.99), Skirt Light Blue Floral/Check Print, ($34.99), Middle (left) Event Hashtag for the collection: #PeterPilottoForTarget, Lower Left: Moto Jacket in Blue Netting Print, ($59.99), Cropped Sweater in White/Blue Print, ($29.99), Short in Blue Netting Print, ($29.99).

I am fond of Turquoise/White/Brown or Black in summer, so these color combinations were definitely a hit with me!

PETER PILOTTO for Target Collage, #peterpilottofortarget - Designer is in the CENTER square!

My Take:

Check out the pictures in our Pinterest Board, where you can see everything in full size! This collection is a bit like a Kaleidoscope come to life, with super vibrant patterns, splashes of bold color and an easy spring into summer mix and match appeal. You are going to have to fun with the sunglasses, and the Totes with their matching Slip-On Shoes keeping a unified look among the various wardrobe mix and match color and  endless pattern combinations that are available.

The collection will be available begining February 09, but won't be available for long, so be prepared to pick your favorites using their look book. This way when the ordering lines open you already know what you want and have a plan of attack and game plan to get your favorite pieces! Check out the Official Look Book HERE!

If you do buy something from this collection, we'd love to see your pictures! Tag them on Twitter using the hashtag #peterpilottofortarget be sure to include: @PeterPilotto @TargetStyle and @Ascending1 so we can see your cool new outfits, sunnies and slip-ons!

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FTC Disclosure: This is NOT a compensated post, however I was provided with a Tote Gift Bag from the collection. However, All opinions are 100% my own!  I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission 16 CFR, Part 255 - Guides Concerning the use of endorsements and testimonials in advertising, you may check our Giveaway and Disclosure Page for additional information regarding Ascending Butterfly Disclosure.

{#Giveaway Alert!} Check out my #Holiday Picks from @wilsonsleather and enter to win a $100 Gift Card!

Happy Holidays Butterflies!

For those of you that don't want to battle the malls, have some' hard to shop for's' on your list or just need some new gift ideas, I always say you can't possibly go wrong with the gift of leather! And I have a favorite trusted source for my Leather purchases. I have been shopping Wilson's Leather since my teens. My first job during my high school years allowed me to indulge myself in a few luxury loves of mine like Fashion/Leather and a Wilson's Leather Handbag was actually my very first purchase!

I still shop them to this day online (and in store) and was a loyal consumer way before working with them now on collaborations on my blog. Fashion is a passion and butterflies when it's leather it's that much better in my book. I have some Hot Picks from Wilson's Leather that I'm sure anyone would love to find under their tree!

TOP STOCKING STUFFER PICK:

Wilsons Leather touchpoint smart leather red Gloves

The touchpoint Gloves from Wilson's Leather allow you to operate your portable mobile devices and NOT have to remove your gloves at all. No more frozen finger tips from gloves with the cut out fingers, you can now operate your devices and keep those digits completely covered. Of course I picked Red, but there are other colors available and I'd snatch these up quick if I were you!

Wilsons Leather touchpoint smart leather red Gloves in action!

You know I immediately put these to the test and used them with my smartphone to test out how easy it would be to use applications with the gloves and I'm happy to report I was able to open apps, take pictures and never had to remove my gloves at all, I love that the top is red leather and the underside is black so you also get the bonus of a nice 'color blocking' effect, tres trendy!

LADIES LEATHER OUTERWEAR PICK:

Marc New York Center Zip High Collar Leather Scuba in Tabacco

This scuba has clean lines and is deceptively simple, it's perfect to throw on top of your dress pants for work, and then use it again on the weekend thrown over your jeans with a cute dress boot. The full length zipper is hidden by a full-snap placket and it boasts a high scuba collar which you can just as easily wear down, the zippered cuffs are a super cute detail and give your sleeve a little more breathing room which is great when you are running errands or want a more casual look. The Two Front hand Pockets actually have a snap closure if you need to put something in them you have a little extra security, it also has a fully lined interior with one open pocket. I LOVE THIS ONE!

MEN'S LEATHER OUTERWER PICK:

Wilsons Leather Men's Classic Leather Trench Coat

OK so maybe it's because I have a Vampire thing and you often see them in movies wearing Leather Trench Coats, that I'm drawn to this Wilsons Leather Mens Classic Leather Trench Coat!

HAUTE HANDBAG PICK:

Wilsons Leather Ginger Zip Around Leather Tote Handbag

I'm totally digging the clean lines and Pop of Color on the Wilsons Leather Ginger Zip Around Leather Tote! Yes Please!

MY TAKE:

I received the Touch Smart Gloves and Andrew Marc/Marc New York Leather Scuba Jacket for Editorial Consideration. I already live in Wilsons Leather and the gloves and Scuba jacket blended right into my wardrobe like I have always owned them. (I'm obsessing over the Handbag so I might just have to pick that one up this weekend!)

Wilsons Leather is always soft and supple, holds up really well, and most importantly butterflies, their customer service is top notch, that I can personally attest to.I do most of my shopping online now, but I will admit Wilson's is like an old friend to me and I can never pass by their brick and mortar locations without stopping in. (Random visits to the store always result in un-expected purchases, but I never have any regrets!). I HIGHLY recommend Wilson's Leather, with literally something for everyone, you can easily knock off your entire list, not to mention they offer a full range of sizing so you are very likely going to find something you love in your size in stock.

WIN IT!

I am so happy that Wilsons Leather returned this year to close out our annual Holidays Buying Guide. We got a late start, so we'll be taking entries for this one through the New Year and the gift certificate will be fulfilled in the New Year, giving you more time to get a ton of entries in, and double perk, you'll get a chance to see what comes in new after they re-stock after the holidays, so in my book DOUBLE SCORE!

Enter using the Rafflecopter Widget Below:

a Rafflecopter giveaway

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FTC Disclosure: I was provided some of the products featured for editorial consideration. Ascending Butterfly blogs by Ethical Blogging Guidelines. All opinions are 100% my own!  I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission 16 CFR, Part 255 - Guides Concerning the use of endorsements and testimonials in advertising, you may check our Giveaway and Disclosure Page for additional information regarding Ascending Butterfly Disclosure.

#spon @Ascending1 wants YOU to Fall in Love with @IGIGI with a $75 Holiday Shopping Spree! {#Giveaway} #Fashion

#Sponsored - Prizes are being sponsored by:

By now it's no surprise just how much I love IGIGI by Yuliya as I have been wearing their Fashion quite a bit and sharing my pictures with you from events that I have been proudly wearing clothing by IGIGI Style. From dresses to separates to career and outwear and pretty much everything in between, there is literally something for everyone at IGIGI.

IGIGI clothes are cut with Curvy Women in mind, and are not only figure flattering, but always on trend! No more 'Moo-Moo's' or tunics ladies!  IGIGI clothes are not about HIDING your figure, they are all about ENHANCING it and showing it off!

I am in love with their Fall Collection and have worn quite a few pieces from this collection to various events and have felt confident and received tons of compliments. Here are some photos of me wearing pieces from IGIGI's Fall Collection (others are not in the fall collection but I am providing direct links to all pieces featured):

Ascending Butterfly is wearing the IGIGI Miwa Top in Black, (the top with comes with the Obi-Belt Sash pictured) and the matching IGIGI Penelope Pencil Skirt in Malachite Green.

Same outfit as above!

Ascending Butterfly is wearing the IGIGI Margherita Wrap Dress in Turquoise

Left: Ascending Butterfly (with hair in bun) is wearing the IGIGI Luella top in Red, this color is no longer available but the top is available in 'Garden Green' HERE

Which item from the Fall Collection is your personal fave? (Commenting here with a link to your favorite piece in the Fall Collection will get you extra credit entries in the giveaway! Woot! Woot!)

My Take:

I only have one problem with IGIGI, I like EVERYTHING! Definitely a good problem to have right? Usually us 'curvies' have trouble finding clothes that not just fit but actually flatter, with IGIGI I can tell you I haven't found an outfit I don't like. I'm a huge fan of separates because of their versatility, but with IGIGI I have actually been wearing more dresses and skirts which I used to shy away from until now! I feel more confident in IGIGI and find myself reaching for them each and every time I go into my closet. They are definitely helping me win the battle of the age old closet dilemma of 'not having anything to wear'!

DISCOUNTS:

PRE-BLACK FRIDAY SALE - EXTRA 25% OFF SELECT CATEGORIES!

Code: THANKSNSAVE

Sale ends 11/22 at 12 pm PST

FREE GROUND SHIPPING on all Continental U.S. orders of $150 or more and 50% off on ALL International Orders! Offer Ends 12/31

WIN IT:

I want you to fall in love with IGIGI too, and when I told my friends at IGIGI that November is our annual holiday buying guide month, they wanted to join in the fun and give one lucky Ascending Butterfly Reader a gift certificate to have a shopping spree of their own just in time for the holidays! (Ladies they have some beaded gowns that will knock your socks off for New Years Eve!)

Enter using the Rafflecopter Widget Below:

a Rafflecopter giveaway

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FTC Disclosure: This giveaway is being sponsored by IGIGI, prize fulfillment will be handled directly by sponsor. Ascending Butterfly and giveaway sponsors are not responsible for lost, late or mis-directed mail. One entry per Household. No Purchase Necessary. Entrants must be 18 years of age or older at the time of entry and reside in the United States. All opinions are 100% my own. Fashions were provided to Ascending Butterfly for Editorial Consideration.  I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission 16 CFR, Part 255 - Guides Concerning the use of endorsements and testimonials in advertising, you may visit our full giveaway and disclosure page for complete policy information.

Why should @polyvore send @Tracy_Iglesias of @Ascending1 to New York Fashion Week? #NYFW #sendmetoFW

Like by clicking HERE and pressing on the red heart!

Polyvore is sending one member of their community to New York Fashion Week and of course they came up with the neat contest idea of having members create a Polyvore Board that answers: Why should @polyvore send you to New York Fashion Week? and this was my board for my contest entry! If you think it's as cute and cheeky and totally butterfly fabulous as I do, head on over using the link above and press on the red heart to give my Polyvore Board a like!

Wouldn't you love seeing your favorite NYC Butterfly Loving Blogger covering what's hot on the runway as a Polyvore Correspondent?

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FTC Disclosure: This is NOT a Sponsored Post, this is only a contest entry, I have not received any incentives for sharing my contest entry for Polyvore's New York Fashion Week Contest. I just really hope I win!

Wanna be @Covrdperfectly? Sure you do! Learn about how this #Butterfly loving designer solves your 'Nothing to Wear' Dilemma

#Ad: This is a Sponsored Post, Please see Full Disclosure at the bottom of the page:

We are welcoming a very Special Guest Contributer Today, so butterflies please give Pauline Durban, President/Founder of Covered Perfectly a very warm butterfly welcome. (You will want to read this post through for some special goodies for you and a fun Q&A too)

Special Guest Contributer: Pauline Durban, President/Founder of Covered Perfectly

"You know the feeling. You are looking for something to wear to a party, and nothing works. Standing in front of the mirror, with a pile of clothes on the bed, can be the most frustrating experience. But believe me…it’s not you, it’s your clothes!" ~Pauline Durban

I was frustrated because the sleeves were too short to cover that part of my arms that I’d rather not reveal, or the body wasn’t long enough to cover my tummy. It seemed that no one designed clothes for me.

Everyone assured me that I looked great, but ultimately it came down to how I felt about my own body. I wanted clothes that made me feel beautiful and empowered, but it was impossible to find women’s tops that would do the job.

When I discussed this with my friends, I discovered that I wasn’t the only one with this challenge. They were all facing the exact same issues. In fact, I can almost see you nodding your head! I know that you can relate. No doubt, you have had a hard time finding comfortable, stylish clothes as well.

Why should I settle on the dismal styles available? Taking matters into my own hands I began to design a collection of tops made of delicious fabrics, in flattering silhouettes and lovely colors, and of course, featuring pieces that provided perfect coverage.

Gathered Front soft luxurious Micromodal Top in Blue

After researching numerous fabrics and blends, my search led me to MicroModal, a natural fabric made from the fiber of the European Beechwood. Breathable, and luxuriously soft, MicroModal is a fabric that will keep you cool, and not just when the weather is warm! Once you feel it on your skin, you will know why this is the main fabric used.

It also was important to me that my designs be made in the USA, and I’m proud to say they are. My line is cut, sewn and beautifully put together for you in sunny Los Angeles!

Covered Perfectly launched in May 2013, offering a dozen designs for every occasion, for every time of day and for every month of the year. At 57, I have started a company that I can be proud of. I’m excited to get my fabulous tops onto all the real women over 40 who also want to be Covered Perfectly!

Left: Simple Comfort Micromodal Top in Gray Right: Gathered Front Micromodal Top in Animal Print

QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS: (5 Minutes with Pauline and a Peek Behind the Brand!)

(1) Ascending Butterfly is an empowerment community, throughout the years we have queried readers about what butterflies mean to them, I noticed immediately you use a butterfly on your site and in your logo (which of course I love) why a butterfly? What do they represent to you?

Answer: It was important that my logo reflected the idea that women truly become more beautiful with age. The butterfly is a symbol of metamorphosis that represents both maturity and magnificence. Age isn’t just about wisdom…it’s about beauty on every level! ~Pauline Durban

(2) Your tops definitely take away that 'I have nothing to wear' factor, so what about pants or dresses?

Answer: It’s wonderful that my designs are working for so many women! I absolutely see dresses in the very near future. We have a few designs in the works that could be introduced as early as Christmas. We are also designing a couple of really fun wraps for the colder weather. As far as pants go, I would love to design a really great legging that has the proper thickness and support. Most leggings fall short, and tend not to be an option for the more mature woman. I’m still thinking on that one!

(3) As a relatively new line, what has been your biggest challenges so far? How have you overcome them?

Answer: Starting an online business is like opening a store in the middle of a desert…no one knows it’s there! Finding the right places to promote my line has been the greatest challenge. I’ve worked very hard to find companies that truly care about the business, and see the big picture. In the process, I have met some amazing women who will continue to be a part of this journey. As a result, we have been able to provide a wonderful product, and make it available to the right demographic. It’s a great feeling to have repeat customers…and we have quite a few. It makes it very clear that we are giving women what they want!

(4) In that vein, Fashion and Accessories go hand in hand, any plan to offer Accessories that you design down the line?

Answer: I agree…accessories are very important. As my business continues to grow, anything is possible. For now, I am putting my effort into designing more clothing. It is important for me to be very “hands-on” in developing pieces that really work, and this takes time and care. So, accessories may have to wait for a bit!

(5) Will we see Covered Perfectly in retail stores anytime soon?

Answer: At this time, I have no plans of introducing my line into retail stores, primarily because keeping the prices down for my customers is extremely important to me. By designing, manufacturing and selling directly, I am able to do this. I have been approached by boutique retailers who would like to carry my line, however, for now I’m saying no, but…never say never!

Get Social With It:

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ -Follow @Covrdperfectly via Twitter
Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ -"Like"  The Covered Perfectly Facebook Page
Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Pin with Covered Perfectly via Pinterest too!

Nab a Discount:

Ascending Butterfly subscribers can receive a 20% discount off of their first purchase. Plus, shipping is FREE, both ways. Just use AB20 at checkout at: www.coveredperfectly.com

Additional Ways to Score: Join the Covered Perfectly Rewards Program + there is a current special for those buying two tops on Facebook, so use the get social section to head over to Covered Perfectly's Facebook Page for more information. So including the exclusive code for Ascending Butterfly you currently have 3 different ways to update your wardrobe at a price that certainly won't break the bank!

What are you waiting for Butterflies, Go nab the softest, coziest Blouse you'll ever wear (Yes I'm wearing them now and will have a full review for you soon!), at a GREAT price, from a woman-owned small business owner, the fact that she loves butterflies like we do, is just a bonus!

HAPPY SHOPPING!

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FTC Disclosure: This is a Sponsored Guest Post by a Contributor, Ascending Butterfly enjoys profiling and supporting woman owned businesses. And anyone who loves butterflies as much as we do, is OK with us! See our Full Giveaway & Disclosure Page for full policy information.