Top 10 Easiest DIY Scarf Projects

I love scarves. I would wear them every season if I could.

But I can't... because hanging around SoCal on a summer day when it is 110 degrees in a scarf is not something any sane person would do... which means I might do it... but my husband usually talks me out of it so I don't suffer from heat exhaustion (he says he doesn't want to carry me back to the car if I faint, but that sounds like fun to me, except I guess I wouldn't be able to enjoy it being unconscious... I'm thinking about this too much).

Anyway, it's getting colder and we're planning on spending a lot of time up in the high desert and mountains over the winter to enjoy some snow. Super excited... more so about the scarves than the snow. Did I mention scarves?

Although I am friendly with my Brother sewing machine, and want to use it more (because it is awesome), I am still a novice and haven't taken the time to learn it's various functions. It typically comes out of its shell to help me with our last minute Halloween costumes.

So I thought, heck... I like scarves but I am lazy. Why not get a list of cool, EASY DIY scarf projects and just go bananas with it?


Here's a bunch of - 10, actually - scarf projects in order of easiest to most difficult (trust me, it's not that bad) with great accompanying tutorials:

1. No Sew T-Shirt Infinity Scarf

(via Honestly)

Turn any t-shirt into an infinity scarf! Get the biggest shirt you can find for this project. The local Goodwill store is also a good place to stop by if you don't happen to have a t-shirt you want to cut up on hand.

2. No Sew Blanket Scarf

(via Mom Advice)

This scarf has BIG impact. Blanket scarves are timeless and super practical. This project is so easy, you just can't screw it up!

3. Infinity Scarf/ Nursing Cover with No Sew Tape

(via Bean in Love Blog)

Let's say you have a good amount of fabric just waiting for a project but you're just not in the mood to sew. Hey, I can relate. Well, just pick up some no sew adhesive fabric tape and you're all set to craft up a beautiful infinity scarf that can also double as a chic nursing cover!

4. Easy Scarf ReStyle

(via Maria Torti)

Some scarves are just 100% practicality and 0% fashion-forward. While we don't wear them we won't throw them away either, because they're useful and someone might use them... one day. It's time to take those scarves out of the bottom drawer and refashion them so you make good use of all their practical warmth and newly found style.

5. Finger-Knit Infinity Scarf

(via Handimania)

Finger knitting isn't as hard as it sounds. Try it out with this project and you'll be surprised at what beautiful things you can create. The trick to this DIY is to use jumbo-size, thick yarn.

6. American Apparel Knock-Off Circle Scarf

(via Come On, Ilene!)

A dear friend of mine gifted me an American Apparel Circle Scarf for my birthday one year and I seriously cherish it as the prized garment it is (hugs, Cheryl!). I'm thinking I need more... so maybe I'll make some with this DIY. Just a bit of sewing gets you serious results, here.

7. Simple Sew Scarf Dress Conversion

(via Kelly Hicks Design)

Sometimes while at a thrift store I stumble upon a frumpy-style dress or skirt with an amazing print. I can't resist purchasing the item, even if it isn't in my size or anything I'm likely to wear. It's a weakness, I know... but this DIY gives me hope! I can just turn those items into a scarf I will treasure. Win-win!

8. Flannel Pajama Pants into Infinity Scarf DIY

(via Instructables & brittanyMakes)

We all have them - don't lie! Sometimes they pile up as holiday gifts or they get a tear and you HAVE to buy another pair otherwise... how will you survive?! Now you can turn 'em into a stylish, warm scarf with just a few, easy seams.

9. DIY Lace Infinity Scarf

(via Mary's Crafts & Quilts)

Lace! On a scarf! This is for someone with a little extra sewing experience, but I think I might try it anyway - still an easy project for a beginner.

10. DIY Team Spirit Scarf

(via VMG206)

For you sports fans and game-goers, this project is for you! You might need to make one for the whole family, so plan ahead with this one. This DIY requires some basic sewing knowledge but, oh boy, will you look like a true fan!


stay warm!
-b

Fest of Ales - Have Your Beer and Drink it Too

One of Orange County's top fun and festive activities is fast approaching - the legendary "Fest of Ales" in Anaheim taking place on September 19th from 12pm to 4pm.

Beer and cupcakes, can there be anything better?? (Image via OC Fest of Ales)

There will be 40 breweries present! However, the beer-lovers event isn't just for sipping on a variety of delicious brews. Attendees will enjoy unlimited gourmet food tastings in addition to the ale. Nearly 20 restaurants will be on-hand to help you even out the experience.

Something bacony and delicious (Image via OC Fest of Ales)

All the fun will be happening in Downtown Anaheim. Some of this year's event's proceeds will go towards Cops4Kids and Downtown Anaheim Association non-profit organizations.

Here's a promotional video from 2013 to give you an idea of how all the fun comes together:

For entertainment, The Rayford Brothers will be playing their sweet tunes from 12:20pm to 4:00pm.

I know what you're thinking... this guy must be the same guy from the video above. 
Sorry... We're not sure.
(Image via OC Fest of Ales)

Buy your tickets in advance at FestofAles.com!

Downtown Anaheim

(Center Street Promenade and Lemon Street)

201 Center Street Promenade

Anaheim, CA 92805

(Image via OC Fest of Ales)

-b

Style Week OC is Back!

Fall fashion is here with Style Week OC. The very trendy event is taking place at 3 different locations in Orange County during the dates of September 10th through 19th. It's going to be a lot of fun!

(image via Style Week OC)

What to expect: tons of fun fashion shows, shopping parties, style and beauty presentations, swag, celebrity sightings (speculation) and more.

Where to go and When:

• Fashion Island: September 10th-12th
• Irvine Spectrum: September 18th-19th
• The Market Place: September 19th

Some highlighted events:

Nick Verreos of Project Runway fame is again hosting the esteemed Celebrity Cruises Design Competition! The competition is Sept. 12th, 7pm at Fashion Island. The event is free and open to the public. FIDM design graduates compete with their best garments, stunning the audience with their unique voice.

True to the California lifestyle, the Surf + Action Sports Showcase will be a fun event for the outdoorsy and outgoing. The event will celebrate "20 years of style from OC’s iconic fashion brands including Hurley and Vans." Head to the Irvine Spectrum Center on Sept. 18th at 7pm.

The Neiman Marcus Children's Show will feature cute little guys and gals strutting in adorable fashion from brands such as Kenzo, Kate Spade, Little Marc Jacobs, Chloe and more. The show takes place at Fashion Island on Sept. 12th at 12pm. This is a free event.

Here's a teaser from last year's event with Nick Verreos himself:

With plenty of free fun there is no reason to miss these events. Limited seating will be available for fashion shows open to the public so get there early. Fun, fun!


See you there!
-b

Want to win an iPad Mini?

I am a big fan of giveaways, you know... being broke and all... I have entered too many of them to count and even won some things! In elementary school I won a cool, "rare" Ty Beanie Baby in a raffle. I was so stunned it took me a whole day to realize I wasn't dreaming (probably should have sold it to the highest bidder then and there, but oh well). I've also won tickets to events, t-shirts and cool rocks.

Anyway, there are so many giveaways out there but how often do you see an iPad mini giveaway?! Well, here's one for you! 99SmartHomes.com is giving away an iPad mini and there are a variety of ways to enter. One of which you will notice is posting a blog post (so here you go, haha).

99SmartHomes.com August 2015 iPad Mini Giveaway!

So enter away and good luck!

About 99SmartHomes.com:
The site offers reviews and comparisons of household products including everything from technology to gardening products. It's a good resource to use for learning about different types of products for your home. Looking for a new blender? They've got you covered with a quick comparison to help you make the best choice for your needs. Check them out!

-b

Disclaimer: This blog post is BrokeintheOC's entry into the 99SmartHomes.com August 2015 iPad Mini Giveaway. I am not affiliated with 99SmartHomes.com.

Evening Fun at Anaheim Night Market Sat. June 20th

Take advantage of the warm Summer weather and enjoy a fun-filled evening out at the Anaheim Night Market this Saturday, June 20th from 6pm to 10pm at the always-trendy Anaheim Packing District.

image via Anaheim Packing District

Expect: local crafts and artisans, art, live music, great food and a free movie in the evening!

Starting at 6pm enjoy live music from Sandro Razciel & Co. Then, at 8pm, get cozy and catch the classic "Back to the Future" for free on the park. Bring some fold up chairs and some blankets!

You can also enter to win a Yelp! Prize Pack simply by checking-in at the event on the Yelp! app.

The prize pack will include:

• Anaheim Packing House T-shirt
• Wine Flask
• Hat
• Wooden train whistle
• Packing House Yo-yo
• Yelp headphones
• Yelp bike bell
• Yelp tumbler
• Yelp sunglasses
• Pins & more!

Anaheim Packing District
412 S. Anaheim Blvd

Anaheim, CA 92805

Enjoy!

-b

Fashion Island Carnival-Themed Party Sat. June 20th

Summer is here and Fashion Island is getting in the spirit with an afternoon full of fun activities and shopping discounts for their carnival-themed Paseo Party.

image via Fashion Island

It's all going down Saturday, June 20th from 1pm to 4pm at Newport Beach's Fashion Island.

Expect free fun including face painting, live music, balloon animals, cotton candy, entertainment, photo booth and giveaways! All the excitement will be taking place near Macy's with discounts at participating stores from 1-4p, including:

OSA Sun * Engine Ear Toys * Claire's Accessories * Michael Stars * Francesca's Collections * Hanna Andersson * Peek...Aren't You Curious * True Religion * G-STAR * San Lorenzo Bikins * IT'SUGAR * DITA * ANGL * Haagen-Dazs ... (* Some exclusions apply; see stores for details.)

Also, enter to win a $200 gift card by snapping and sharing a photo at the photo booth. Find out more at the event!

Fashion Island

271 Newport Center Drive

Newport Beach, CA 92660

View Larger Map

Other news from Fashion Island: Sushi Roku is now open! Find out what all the buzz is about here.


Have a sunny fun time and happy Summer!
-b

FREE Giant Wheel Rides at Irvine Spectrum June 12-14

The Irvine Spectrum Center's Giant Wheel has re-opened and it's better than ever with all new LED light displays, fresh paint and free rides (this weekend only)!

Image via Irvine Spectrum Center

Ya heard right... FREE rides on the ferris wheel at Spectrum all weekend starting today, Friday, June 12th through Sunday, June 14th. Bring your family or a hot date and have a fun time taking in the spectacular views.

Also, you can use your Instagram account to snap a picture of the Giant Wheel this weekend and enter to win a $100 gift card! Be sure to tag @irvinespectrumcenter and use the #SpectrumGiantWheel hashtag! More details on the contest can be found here.

Hours:
Friday & Saturday: 10am to 11pm
Sunday: 10am to 9pm


Irvine Spectrum

71 Spectrum Center Dr.

Irvine, CA 92618

Have a great time!
-b

Last Weekend of OC Night Market

The OC Night Market's last few nights are upon us. Tonight, Saturday, June 6th (4pm to 12am) and Sunday, June 7th (4pm to 10pm) are the last evenings to enjoy the festivities at the OC Fair and Event Center in Costa Mesa.

(image via OC Night Market Facebook page)

Bring some cash and enjoy an exciting assortment of Asian food from local restaurants, entertainment and shopping.

Here's a preview of what you can find:

(image via OC Night Market Facebook page)

RAMNUT Ramen Donut... yeah, it's a thing... from Foodbeast.

(image via OC Night Market Facebook page)

Organic caramel milk tea with boba and an ice cream donut from Harmony Tea Bar.

(image via OC Night Market Facebook page)

Hanging geometric air plant ornaments.

(image via OC Night Market Facebook page)

Pork belly bun from Lee's Taiwanese Cuisine.

(image via OC Night Market Facebook page)

...and these weird cone... things...

Musician Joseph Vincent is performing Saturday night at 9pm. Here's a music video to illustrate his talents!

Costs: $5 admission and $7 parking (cash only)

OC Fair and Event Center
88 Fair Drive
Costa Mesa, CA 92626

Can't make it this weekend? Visit the other night markets put on by 626 Night Market at Santa Anita Park. More details on future events can be found at 626nightmarket.com.


-b

Santa Ana ReStore's 3rd Anniversary Sale - Sun., May 24th

Are you ready for some Memorial Day Weekend shopping? This coming Sunday, May 24th, is the Santa Ana ReStore’s 3 Year Anniversary Celebration with a not-to-be-missed sale!

From 10 a.m. – 5 p.m., there will be a huge 50% off discount on all furniture, doors, windows, moulding, and tile.

(image courtesy of Habitat for Humanity ReStore)

Remember, every purchase supports the build of affordable homes in Orange County!

Santa Ana ReStore
Monday hours: 9am - 6pm
400 S. Village Way
Santa Ana, CA 92705

-b

Spring Amazon.com Window Shopping - Continued...

When I hit a wall while working I often find myself on Amazon, just perusing around... almost always in the clothing section.

Is it just me or is Amazon kind of addicting to shop around on? I just know they have put tons of research into snagging the helpless internet-shopping-obsessed, such as myself, into an online shopping binge that can last hours... ok, I may be exaggerating there - really, though, I don't think Amazon is evil in any way. I really love Amazon, it is so useful!

Anyway, here are some fun finds I had to share on the blog (Note: Not Safe For Work - bras and lacy things included below). Somehow it got a bit lacy and mostly white/pastel...

BB Dakota Women's Sally Lace Sleeve and Back Dress

Qupid Women's Therapy-15 Platform Sandal

BCBGeneration Women's Lace Cami Dress

Jack by BB Dakota Women's Hazeline Stripey Lace Dress

Buffalo David Bitton Women's Lovely Lace Maxi-Length Skirt

Honeydew Intimates Women's Claudia Lace Bralette

BB Dakota Women's Phaedra V-Neck Sleeveless Lace Dress

Anna Women Dana-17 Casual Rhinestone Glitter Mesh Slip On Ballet Flat Lightweight

Jolt Junior's Short Sleeve Floral Lace Top

Maybe next time I will post about the weird things I find on Amazon... hm, that sounds like a lot of fun, I think I will start looking for some right now.

-b

Just an FYI: this post features Amazon affiliate links.

Irvine Spectrum Food Truck + Fashion Truck Fun - May 15-17

Foodies and fashionistas unite!! This really cool, multi-day event is going on NOW at the Irvine Spectrum.

image via Find A Fashion Truck

Starting today, Friday, May 15th through Sunday May 17th from 11am to 10pm shop to your hearts content at 3 hot boutique fashion trucks parked at the Irvine Spectrum mall's Giant Wheel Court, including Michael Stars, Le Fashion Truck and JD Luxe Fashion Truck.

image via Food Network

Then, on Saturday, May 16th from 11am to 8pm enjoy a bite from some of the most popular food trucks in the area including Dogzilla and The Lime Truck in the Giant Wheel Court.


From 2pm to 4pm some of Spectrum's top boutiques, including Francesca's Collections, Irene's Story and KAITLYN, will be showing off collections, sharing style tips and offering promotions and discounts.

image via Irene's Story

To learn more about the event, click here.

image via Irvine Spectrum Center, Irvine Company

Irvine Spectrum

71 Spectrum Center Dr.

Irvine, CA 92618

-b

Grub for a Cause with the Ladies

Need some fun weekend plans? Why not get your grub on for a great cause?!

Team Brunette of the Alzheimer's Association Los Angeles Blondes Vs. Brunettes Group is taking over 149 Bar & Grill in Orange this Saturday, May 16th.

Head to 149 Bar & Grill for dinner on Saturday, order yourself some delicious American-style food and a beer (or 2), mention "Alzheimer's" and 10% of your check will go towards Team Brunette's fundraising goal! The Brunettes will also be selling raffle tickets and game day tickets.

Now you are probably wondering... "game day ticket? huh?"

On Saturday, May 30th, the Alzheimer’s Association California Southland Chapter’s Blondes vs. Brunettes flag football game will kick off at 2:00 p.m at Hollywood High School in Los Angeles.

The two teams, divided based on the age-old rivalry between blondes and brunettes, aim to increase awareness of Alzheimer’s disease among a new generation. Funds raised will benefit the care, support, advocacy and research efforts of the Alzheimer’s Association.


Interested in donating or getting involved? Click here to find out more about this great event and campaign.


A little bit more about the campaign and the amazing volunteers behind it:

This year marks the first time the L.A. event boasts a female Head Coach. Brigette Young, a three year veteran of Team Blonde, will share head coaching responsibilities with fitness professional Todd McCullough (formerly a starting linebacker for the Florida Gators). The new duo will take on reigning champions Team Brunette led by talented coaches Chad Cole and five year pro-football veteran Bobby Hosea (formerly a starting cornerback at UCLA), who have also participated for three years.

According to the Alzheimer’s Association®’s 2014 Facts and Figures women are disproportionally affected by Alzheimer’s. They are not only more likely to develop the disease, but also to become caregivers of those who have it.


Special thanks to Stacy Hartmann for the tip!
-b

Guest Post: Goodshop for Nepal with these 3 Stores

Enjoy this guest post with information on how you can contribute to a great cause while doing something you probably love (I know I do) - shopping!


GOODSHOP FOR NEPAL WITH THESE THREE STORES

Feeling stuck about how to contribute to the post-earthquake reconstruction efforts in Nepal? You’re not the only one. That’s why a bunch of online stores have decided to partner with non-profits to help fundraise Nepal Relief Funds. If you shop these socially conscious stores through Goodshop, a coupons-for-good website, you can help them raise additional donations. Make sure to select the non-profit you’d like to support on Goodshop before shopping, so that they know where to send the donations you raise just by clicking through their website to one of these stores:


LORD AND TAYLOR



The American Red Cross is one of the most trusted non-profits out there. They are first responders in the case of crisis and partner with many stores to fundraise during times of disaster, like Lord & Taylor. If you shop at Lord & Taylor through Goodshop, an additional 2.5% of your purchase can be donated to the American Red Cross.


URBAN OUTFITTERS



Urban Outfitters is fundraising for Waves For Water to provide access to clean water by distributing portable water systems to community centers, refugee camps, and individual families within the disaster zone. Goodshop will donate an additional 6% of any Urban Outfitters purchase to support non-profits providing clean water to the people of Nepal.


MOUNTAIN HARDWARE




Mountain Hardwear partnered with other Columbia Sportswear brands to support earthquake relief efforts with donations to several non-profits including UNICEF. You can aid their donations by Goodshopping at Mountain Hardwear. Goodshop will donate an additional 3% of your purchase towards earthquake relief.

There are thousands of other stores that have partnered with Goodshop to raise donations for non-profits helping the Nepalese. Just signup and select a trusted non-profit, like Oxfam America, Americares Foundation, or World Vision to start making an impact!

-----

Thanks, Kelly!

Spring Shopping Fun on Amazon.com

Another season, another Amazon.com window shopping session... Who doesn't love a good reason to shop?! I love Spring, too. It's definitely my favorite season.

The first thing I think of when Spring comes around is the perfect springtime dress. Whether it's flowy, bright, bold or fitted, if it's light-weight and light-hearted you're in business. Here are a few picks:

Tbags Los Angeles Women's Tie Front Jersey Dress

Plenty by Tracy Reese Women's Jane Printed Knit-Sheath Dress

Amanda Uprichard Women's Knotted-Sleeve Silk Shift Dress

Ellen Tracy Women's Short Sleeve Printed Dress

BCBGMAXAZRIA Women's Hayden Printed Shift Dress

Alice & Trixie Women's Catrina Silk Border Print 3/4 Sleeve Shift Dress

I sure do love Spring... While looking at these pretty dresses I started thinking about the accessories to pair with them. Here's what I found:

Fossil "Signature" Rose Gold-Tone Bangle Bracelet, 8"

T Tahari "Essentials" Rose Gold Colored and Crystal Oval Bangle Bracelet, 9"

Stuhrling Original Women's 568.04 Deauville Sport Swiss Quartz Brown Leather Wrap Around Band Gold Tone Watch

Marc by Marc Jacobs Celestial Hula Wintergreen Bangle Bracelet, 2.5"

Dbdk Womens Sallie-4 Fashion Wedge Platform Sandals

Brinley Co. Womens Ankle Strap Platform Stilettos

Steve Madden Women's Nevile Dress Pump

Not sure if I mentioned that I love springtime. Spring is a great time for walking, smelling flowers and shopping, isn't it?

Do you have your eye on any springtime wear?
-b

Just an FYI: this post features Amazon affiliate links.