This month's Give Back Beautiful campaign features local no-kill Cache Creek Animal Rescue. We all have a huge place in our hearts for our own furbabies. These little guys and girls make our homes happier and we don't know what we'd do without them! So we want you to meet our precious pets....

Pepper

"Our dog, Pepper, is 5 years old! She was our first "fur-baby" before we ever had our son Ransom. She is a mix of poodle and rat terrier (we think:). She is a scruffy mess of adorable and we love her! However, she has claimed Ransom as her current best friend. Probably because he shares all his meals with her when we aren't looking. She is a great dog and we are happy she is apart of our family!" - Jordan

Oscar

"West Highland Terriers are known to be tenacious, and our Oscar upholds that reputation. After our first Westie, Bubba, passed away we were never having another. Never say never. Our "empty nest" seems to be filled with a furry boy who licks tears when I am sad, plays rough with Dad, pouts when he is upset that we are leaving...but still loves us unconditionally. Pets are a precious gift from God to us." - Tammy

Lucy, Dover & Buster Brown

"My life forever changed once I adopted my little Lucy. She's a full blooded Cocker Spaniel who was in a bad living situation. We became inseparable and she is just like my child. Several months later, my husband saw a sweet little brown mix puppy on a local animal shelter's Facebook page. Not soon after, Dover became a member of our family. And about six months after that, an abandoned pit bull mix puppy was added to our furbaby collection. Our life is crazy with three dogs under 2 years of age running around. They drive me nuts and yet are the highlight of my day. I cannot imagine life without them. All three were rescued and I wouldn't have it any other way." - Britni

Lila

"Lila was my first baby. We got her right after we got married! She is a Peek-a-Poo and such a sweet natured little lady. Especially since my little boy likes to pick on her!!" - Lauren

Ulysees Winston "Grant" and Darcy Elizabeth

"I ensure a good day at work by starting off my morning with coffee, puppy love and Jesus! My two furbabies are five year old West Highland Terriers. These babies give unconditional love and lots of snuggles and kisses. They are both full of attitude and provide our family with so much laughter. Momma is their favorite. They do not like it when deer or other wildlife trespass in our yard and they make sure we all know about it. Grant can smell a skunk 3 miles away and will go to every window and door in the house day or night to make sure they haven't snuck in. Darcy is a Princess and has no time for selfies. They sleep with Audrey Kate until about 4 and then they sneak in bed with momma. They were my 15th wedding anniversary gift because they were a gift that was going to keep on giving. I did not want them, but I would be heartbroken without them now. They are just like one of my kids. Did I mention I adore them?" - Terra

Mila

"I love Mila because..... She is me, in dog form!! My sister always says "if Mila were a human, she would be you." Her two favorite things are eating and sleeping, and she loves to pose for selfies and look at her!!! She's so tiny and cute!!" - Taylor

 Jubilee, Snickers, and Tiger

"Jubilee is my loveable Labradoodle! He's so happy and just a wonderful part of my life! The last image is of my dog Snickers and cat, Tiger. Snickers passed away a couple of months ago but will always be my furbaby!" - Anna Clare

Jasper, Whiskers, and Katie

"Jaspers, Whiskers, and Katie were all strays that people dumped near our house and we took them in. Katie has only one eye because she got hurt when she was a kitten. We're not sure how it happened, but she's as sharp as ever, even with only one eye!" - Abby

Show your love for the furbabies in the world by donating to the local no kill shelter: Cache Creek Animal Rescue.

You can't be singing the blues when you're wearing Mink Pink's gorgeous soft suede-like kimono! We're especially swooning over the delicate laser cutout and scallop trim! Taylor wants to show how to take this one beautiful overlay and give it two different vibes.

In the first outfit, Taylor has a laid-back summer approach. Mix textures like distressed denim and delicate crochet. Throw on some hard metal jewelry and colorful beaded bracelets. Don't forget some tall wedge sandals to add some height!

Mink Pink Lackawanna Blues Kimono $86 // Tank Top $43 // Shorts $37 // Roxy Rabb Necklace $33 // Brown Bracelet $22.95 // Tan/Cream Bracelet $26.95 // Wedge Sandals $37

After wearing your favorite new Mink Pink Lackawanna Blues Kimono during the day, get ready for date night! Taylor makes this soft overlay super sexy by layering on top of a basic black tank slip dress. Tie in the earthy tones with a statement necklace and layer stone jewelry. Add strappy flat sandals and get ready for dinner with the significant other!

Mink Pink Lackawanna Blues Kimono $86 // Tank Dress $25 // Roxy Rabb Necklace $75 // Mason Strap Sandals $29 // Black Bracelet $32 // Gold Rock Bracelet $30

Which style would you wear?

Stay Stylish!!

We are so proud to be a part of the most adorable community in Southern Illinois....Carterville! And one of the best parts of summer in Carterville, Illinois, is the local farmer's market at Cannon Park. The Cannon Park Community Market brings together local farmers and artists all over Southern Illinois. So we dressed up in something pretty and decided to check it out!

Jordan stopped to smell the flowers at Chautauqua Bend Flower Farm's display. Their colorful bouquets immediately put a smile on her face. We had to buy one to brighten up the Eccentrics Team eating area!

Bandana Dress $65 // Black Lace Bralette

After checking out the flowers, Jordan visited Makai Jewelry's table featuring beautiful handmade Hawaiian jewelry. They also had the cutest baby moccasins!

Bandana Dress $65 // Black Lace Bralette

Next, Jordan hit up the fresh produce stands. Brumleve Farm in Cobden, Illinois, had some beautiful tomatoes and peaches! We might have bought a bag....or two.

Let's Go Get Lost Tank Top $37

Hubbard Farm's booth had some delicious jam and broccoli for purchase. We missed out on the fresh berries though. That will teach us to arrive at the farmer's market right when it opens!

Nothing says fresh from the farm like brown eggs! Big Muddy Hogs & Poultry had their brown eggs on display. They already sold out of fresh bacon before we got there but we won't let that happen again!

Checking In Dress $55

Jordan checked out the vegetable and herb plants at Naturae Via, LLC table. It would be nice to finally start our own produce garden! We fell in love with the owners of Schluter Produce in Cobden. We asked the sweet older couple if they had a website or Facebook page to link to....and they said no. So make you you visit the local farmer's markets to support their local farm! We scored some fresh kale that is delicious!

Checking In Dress $55

It was definitely a successful day! Thank you to all of the local farmers and artists who enrich our communities! And another huge thank you to the beautiful Brittney Dillon (pictured below) for letting us come out and do a mini photo shoot at Cannon Park Community Market! She does an amazing job organizing this wonderful addition to the Carterville community!

Do you have a favorite farm or farmer's market? Tell us in the comments below!

Stay Stylish!!

For a successful style, you need to start with the basics. This week, Taylor took a simple black tank top with back buttons and created two different outfits. And let us add...this tank is only $29!! For the first look, Taylor made the perfect ensemble for a day shopping with friends. Wear the black tank with your favorite destroyed rolled cuff denim, metallic strappy sandals and oversized handbag. But make sure that handbag has fringe!! Have you noticed are are loving the fringe trend?? A simple style needs layers of metallic jewelry for an edgy addition.

Black Tank Top with Back Buttons $29 // Blank NYC Denim Capri $88 // Dixin Gold Leather Sandals $80 // Fringe Handbag $140 // Bangles $8 // Giving Keys Inspire Necklace $55 // Black Bracelet $11

 In the second look, Taylor took our affordable black tank top and created a date night look with a girly touch! Tuck the tank top into our Aztec skirt for an hourglass shape. Add a statement necklace and lace up gladiator heels for the finishing touch!

Black Tank Top with Back Buttons $29 // Aztec Skirt $55 // Princess Gladiator Lace Up Heels $49 // Ring $17 // Bracelet $33

So what mood are you in: Casual Shopping Day or Girly Date Night?

Stay Stylish!

It's our first Taylor Made Tuesday post since Taylor left us for Mizzou! We're so excited to bring this series back for the summer! We challenged Taylor to put together two different looks with two different basic bottoms: a mid-calf length grey skirt and black BCBGeneration black high-waisted shorts. So let's take a look at what Taylor created...

Taylor's first outfit is simple and stylish. The neutral tones work well together to create a laid back effortless look. The bow belt and "Oh Boy" oxford flats create a nice contrast of feminine and masculine elements.

Grey Pleated Skirt with Belt $44 // Plain Jersey Tank $19 // Oh Boy Oxford Shoes $45 // Stone Bracelet $34.95 // Brown Bead Bracelet $22.95

 Transform our grey pleated skirt into a boho chic outfit. Throw on our ivory lace crop top and wear fringe high heel sandals. We love this style for a day out with friends. And how cute is this LilyWhite Designs purse designed exclusively by our in-house designer??

Grey Pleated Skirt with Belt $44 // Ivory Lace Crop Top $38 // Fringe City Sandal $64 //Bead Bangle $32 // Stone Wrap Bangle $27 // Lily White Purse $40

 For another trendy look, Taylor dressed up our BCBGeneration black high-waisted shorts. The first look is a casual approach with our adorable "In Case of Emergency Save My Shoes" graphic tee and pops of red accessories!

BCBGeneration Black Shorts with Tie $68 // In Case of Emergency Graphic Tee $43 // Red "Quotes" Pointed Flats $45

For the second style, Taylor added our adorable new black polka dot blouse and high heels with scallop back design. Add a large BCBGeneration purse and head out the door.

BCBGeneration Black Shorts with Tie $68 // Polka Dot Blouse $43 // BCBGeneration Handbag $108 // Chinese Laundry Black Sea Breeze Heels $75

Which look is your favorite? Do you prefer a more dressed-up style or fun casual touch?

Stay Stylish!

We're so excited to mark one thing off our extensive "To-Do List": Create a promo video. (Check. Double check.)  Lucas Richter of Free Cake Film Co. drove a couple of hours to work with us. We had so much fun and cannot wait to see the final product!

There might or might not have been an interview that brought tears to my eyes....

And of course we had to end with a selfie! ;)

So stay tuned for the awesome video by Free Cake Film Co...you won't want to miss it!

(Psst...if you want my look, shop the cutest Blue Tribal Print Tunic...only $37!!)

Stay Stylish!

From the moment I found out I was expecting, I just knew I was having a boy! It was time for me to give up buying high heels and start buying diapers. I'm now a girly girl who is blessed to be raising a boy! Ledger is my sweet, happy and cute little two year old man. I adore how curious and carefree he is. To be honest, I didn't know anything about boy stuff before him. I grew up in a girl family and we just didn't tackle each other (haha)! Sports were never a part of my interests...I was more concerned about what I was going to wear to the games instead!

So, for any other girly girls, here is what I've learned while raising a boy:

1. Getting dirty is a requirement. Whether it's digging in the dirt or rolling around in the grass, I use better judgment on when I wear white clothing!
2. Wrestling is not just something on television. It's a real contact sport...and little boys have to get out all of their energy!
3. Stitches and ER visits are not my favorite....but have happened more times than I want to admit.
4. Bruises and scratches become a part of the landscape while he interacts with the world.
5. Water guns and games are more thrilling than I expected!
6. Wear running shoes. All. Day. Long.
7. Our second language is "Dinosaur." Rawr!!
8. Mickey Mouse Clubhouse "Hot Dog Dance" is a better workout than Zumba.
9. One short day can be full of more love than I ever expected.

As a boutique owner, I love how one part of my day is full of pretty dresses and stylish shoes....but then I get to end my day digging in the dirt searching for dinosaur fossils.

XO,

Lauren

Happy Mommy Tee $32 // Polka Dot Scarf // White Tank Top with Pom Poms // Hat

What a beautiful day at Eccentrics Boutique! We celebrated our new location with chocolate covered strawberries and champagne! We can't think our supportive customers enough for making our first day in the new building so amazing. All the beautiful ladies kept us going and made the day fly by! Here are some images of the new look for Eccentrics Boutique!

Thank you to everyone who make it out on our first day....and we hope to see everyone else tomorrow for more strawberries and champagne!

XO,

Lauren

Mandy Rose with House of Rose is back with more summer outfit inspirations! We have two different outfits featured: one focus on hot pink and another with contrasting black and white. Each outfit is bold in its own right....which represents Mandy Rose very well. Read on to learn more about our featured blogger and to see the stunning images from our photo shoot!

As a stay-at-home mother and entrepreneur, how important is fashion in your daily life?

Sometimes people think that because I work from home I don't get out of my pajamas. But the truth is, I have to get up, shower and get dressed in something fashionable or I feel like my day hasn't started! There is something about feeling good about the way you look that makes your work more productive. :)

What is your favorite part of working from home?

I love being in control of my own destiny. I can work as much or as little as I want. And it's funny because I work more now then I did when I had a full time corporate job. But the difference is? I love what I do now!

What inspires you and how does it impact your daily life?

Being in the blogging community I feel like I get inspired everyday from the women who I surround myself with. My business partner, Natalie {who founded Happy Mommy Box} is someone who inspires me daily. I often call her SUPERMOM. She has 3 little kids at home just like me and also runs her blog and online business. She shares her life as a mom and the fun things that she does with her babies makes me want to be a person. Even if it's just hanging out at the park...she exudes JOY  in everything she does...and that inspires me.

Do you have any secret talents that most people do not know?

I can roll my belly. Like a belly dancer. Bahahaha. Don't ask for a video.

What’s your best kept beauty secret?

Be yourself! I know that seems so simple, but I can't tell you how many times I have tried to dress or do my make-up like someone else and it just wasn't me. Once I finally realized that I had my own style...I embraced that! It's made me a whole more confident! 

What is your favorite thing about Eccentrics?

Besides the fact that the store is BEYOND adorable, I love that every time I go in there the stylists actually CARE about helping me. Especially Lauren... you can just tell how much she loves her business and she genuinely is a fashionista! Plus, I ALWAYS find something when I go in there. More like I find at least 5 things. Ha!

What’s something you do every day that you love?

Drink fountain coke. #oops 

No really, every day I get up and put on makeup. Not a ton of makeup, but powder, blush, mascara and lip gloss can make you feel 100 times more put together and it only takes 5 minutes!

What makes you happiest?

Being with my husband and kids and doing something spontaneous! We are prepping for a 2 week RV trip across the states and we currently have no plan for where we will stop. But, I love that our family can just pick up and go...knowing that it doesn't really matter where we are going or what we are doing because we are together...and that's all that matters! I love creating memories that will last forever!

We are so excited to feature Mandy Rose, author of House of Rose, on our blog today! If you are following her blog, you know that she is full of excitement and joy. If you haven't been following her blog...well...you need to start! It's easy to feel like she's your best friend before you even know her. Well, we just had to spend a day with Mandy and capture some pretty pictures of her wearing our hottest looks this season.

Tell us a little about yourself:

I'm Mandy, author of House of Rose, Dollars & Roses and Co-Founder of Happy Mommy Box. I'm a boy mom, fountain coke lover and diy wanna-be. I believe in celebrating motherhood & creating a fun place for women to BE INSPIRED, SHARE JOY & love one another.

As a mother of three boys, how important is it to dress up and feel feminine?

From two square in my living room to baseball in the hallway to dirt digging in the front yard, I am constantly surrounded by all things BOY. One of the things I love most about being a boy mom is being able to dress up all girly and pretty and having my boys say to me "You look beautiful mommy!"  There's nothing like a compliment like that from your sweet little boys.

Mandy grew up in Carterville, Illinois. She is now raising her family in her beloved small Southern Illinois town. Since we are also located in this friendly community, we knew this was the perfect location for a style inspiration shoot with this successful blogger.  So we grabbed a camera, lipstick, and a couple cute outfits.

What’s something you do every day that you love?

Drink fountain coke. #oops 

No really, every day I get up and put on makeup. Not a ton of makeup, but powder, blush, mascara and lip gloss can make you feel 100 times more put together and it only takes 5 minutes!

What do you love most about living in Carterville?

For those of you who don't know this about me, I was born and raised in Carterville and I never left. You may think that sounds boring, but I happened to love it! Small town life is just my thang'! This town is my home. The comfort and joy I get from knowing almost every person I see at the grocery store or gas station is something you can't replace.

We had such a wonderful afternoon full of laughter with Mandy! Which of her outfits is your favorite? Stay tuned for more collaborations with House of Rose!

Stay stylish!