A quick celeb-inspired look...

I caught a peek at this pic of Vanessa Hudgens in Hawaii and I knew I had to share it with you. I am totally diggin' her Ikat print bikini, but since it's from Trina Turk, each piece retails for about $40+. Neiman Marcus actually has a one-piece cutout suit on sale for $49, you can find it here (what a steal)!

Now, $49 is a pretty good deal, and even the full price designer suit isn't too shabby, but if you're like me and enjoy buying numerous suits each season, spending almost $90 on just one suit isn't going to work. Forever 21 has a really similar Ikat Bikini, for around $21! 

If you want to complete her super boho look, add a chunky necklace like this:

Maybe some bangles:

And you're set! Rock that suit with the confidence you've been hiding behind bulky clothes all winter. 

Soak up the sun (with SPF of course)!

I'll admit, I would absolutely LOVE to own a pair of designer heels. Or carry a designer bag on my perfectly manicured hand while a Tiffany charm bracelet delicately dangles from my wrist. The reality of that is though, is, that will probably never happen. I'm not going to cry about it though because I truly believe you can LOOK the part without breaking the bank. Plus, I'm one of those people that has an anxiety attack just about every time I go shopping, so saving me a mental breakdown is probably a good thing. ;)

I occasionally browse Neiman Marcus's website and drool over their shoes, bags, and gowns. Then guess what I do...head over to my go-to websites and try to find similar styles for cheaper. A lot cheaper. Living in [extremely] rural Upstate New York, my efforts will usually go unnoticed, but I don't care-this is what I love doing, it's my passion, and I truly believe that shoes can change your life. 

Right?

Anyways, I wanted to show you, my lovely lusties, my proof. That even though you may think a certain shoe is out of your price range-it's not. There's usually a similar shoe out there that you can wear to your heart's content without freaking out that they'll get ruined or lost (and yes, I've lost LOTS of shoes, I'm still mourning the loss of the PURRFECT pair of black suede heels from Payless!). 

Here is a pair of Brian Atwood Suede Colorblock Pumps, which retail for about $350:

(gorgeous, right?)

Now, here's a pair of Ami Clubwear Fuschia Faux Suede Pumps, which retail for $31.99:

Obviously, they aren't exactly the same, but they are similar in their style aspects. It's not about finding an exact "twin", it's moreso about finding something that has the same idea. Here, it's the bright colors and the color blocking (which, btw, I luuuuurve).

Moving on...

I die for this Alice + Olivia Laken Long Tank Dress, which usually retails for $440. Now, you may not be able to find a dress exactly like this, but it sure won't be hard to go another route by using separates!

Basically, all you need is a striped shirt (use horizontal stripes), a skinny belt, and a long maxi skirt. You don't have to use all black and white, it would be cute to add a pop of color in the belt or the skirt-or even the stripes of the shirt! Play around and have some fun with it! 

I'm obsessed with the color of this Chiffon Maxi Skirt from Old Navy. It's only $30 (on sale now!) and it's absolute perfection for Spring. 

The only tanks that fit me well are the Long and Lean Basic Tanks from Target. They're only $8, so I can stock up each season and buy all the colors I need. Since the skirt is so WOW!, I'm going to pair it with a neutral gray and white striped tank. 

A skinny belt from Forever 21 will complete your look. I really think the brown will be a bit more casual, which is the look I'm going for here.

You can add your own touch with your bag and your jewelry, I'd go the tribal route, but that's just me. ;)

That's all I've got for tonight, I hope that I've at least given you some inspiration to bargain hunt and realize that you totally CAN look totally put together without spending a fortune. It takes a little time, but in my eyes, it's totally worth it. Because, when you look good, you feel good, and that's what matters the most. 

'Tis all...

My love for Old Navy!

(I'm not even going to acknowledge the fact that I haven't updated since November. I feel bad, but we were supes busy planning the wedding and traveling to MN/IA for J's leave. I'm back, and I really want to be more involved. We'll see how long that lasts, but I'm here now and that's all that matters, right?)

I have a renewed sense of love for Old Navy (not just for their 10% off Military Mondays or awesome online coupons-check 'em out), and when I was in there yesterday, I found SO MANY cute things. I tried on about half the store but only left with one thing (clearance sweater for $8.99-BOOYAH). Couldn't stop thinking about the things I tried on but didn't buy, so what'd I do? Hopped online to take a second glance, only to realize they were offering 30% off until today only. So then what'd I do? Order all the stuff I loved...and more. Shhh...don't tell my husband. Totally justifiable though since we're taking a vacation to Charleston in March and I needed some new "spring-y" clothes. Right? Right. Moving on...

I'm seriously impressed each year when Spring lines come out. I feel so refreshed to see bright colors and patterns, it really makes my heart happy. I especially love how this year, Old Navy took classic pieces and incorporated new colors to give them new life. Burlap covered flats with a neon yellow toe, shirtdresses in fuschia, and bright red denim jeans. I love how spring's fashions mimic nature-flowers blooming and the sun shining.

Let's dive right in, I'm anxious to show you my new faves!

Not only did they have a TON (if not all) of winter coats on clearance, they also had just brought in their new (and I LOVE to say this), LIGHTWEIGHT jackets! Springtime means no more bundling up, no wearing 14 layers, no heavy scarves, nothing. You can totally get away with a light jacket and galoshes. I really love these Cropped Trench Coats, and am especially obsessed with the "Dayglow Dina"-I mean, seriously, how perfect is that color for Spring? It's fitted, it's got cute bottoms...it's got everything. And at $39.94, how can you NOT snatch that up?

I totally bought this chambray shirt after staring at it online for awhile. I think it's the perfect top for our trip, because I can either pair it with my white jean shorts (that I live in during the summer) or jeans. It will look fab with either. Orrr, if I'm really feeling sassy, I can throw on one of my bodycon skirts and tie the shirt at the waist. Totally 80's, but totally awesome.

Ok seriously, how CUTE are these little birds on this charmeuse blouse?! The print isn't too overwhelming and the birds are simple enough, but not in a crazy cat lady kinda way (they do, however, have a shirt with cats on it if you'd prefer those). Skinnies and boots will help tone down this look if you're a little hesitant.

I also bought this dolman sleeved blouse in the imperial jade color, although I really love the red stripe print. Of course, now it's on sale. facepalm. It's fitted, but still loose, and the sleeves roll up, which I really like. It's versatile enough to go from work to happy hour, so I think it's a great piece to have in your closet.

I think I'm going back next week and buying these Colored Rock Star Jeggings. I'm in love with BOTH colors, but I think I'm more of a "blue moon" type of girl. Plus, that's my favorite beer, so that's probably a sign. Ha. Once it got a little warmer, I'd pair it with a loose tank or tee. This smocked charmeuse tank would be super adorable, you could do the imperial jade if you're feeling frisky, or just stick with the cream to keep it a little more low key. Although, I'd probably do white or black, except they don't carry either. Bummeroni.

While I'm talking about POPS! of color, let me just say how utterly infatuated I am with these cap-toe canvas ballet flats. They come in both yellow and blue oracle, but the yellow is definitely my fave. I love the different textures on them. Oh, and don't even get me started on these polka dot canvas flats, they are too adorbs for words.

Is this chiffon maxi skirt not totally MAJOR?! The raspberry punch color is so pretty and I think it's absolutely perfect for spring and summer. Springtime, it can be paired with a cardi and tank, and for the summer, lose the cardi and tuck in the tank. Perfect, just perfect. I see lots of farmer's market trips wearing that and a cute straw fedora...kinda like this (love the navy too, btw).

I would go through each dress that I love, but I seriously love them all. The prints, the shapes, the colors, EVERYTHING. I'm so in love and can't wait until this frozen tundra melts and I can actually step outside without freezing my toes off.

Before I finish (mostly because my kid is singing "Twinkle Twinkle Little Star" and it's the cutest thing, EVAR), I want to highlight one. last. thing. A scarf. That has the most beautiful combination of red, navy, and white. It's so wonderfully nautical, and just...perfect for your inner prep. And it's only $14.94, so there's really no reason why you SHOULDN'T be buying it. Check it out here. You're welcome.

I hope I've turned some new people on to Old Navy, and I HIGHLY encourage you to go to your nearest one and check them out. Happy shopping! :)

Classics.

"Fashions fade, but style is eternal"

                                                        -Yves Saint Laurent

When I hear this quote, there is ONE style icon that comes to mind here and I'm sure my fellow fashionistas would agree with me...

You can't even tell that this pic was taken in the 50/60's! She is the epitome of classic. You can never go wrong with ballet flats, a bike, and a little dog!

So today, I want to talk about the classic pieces that every woman should have in her "big girl closet". These are items that should be splurged on (or inherited from mom/grandma), but I'm still going to keep each piece under $50. It's still possible to look classy without spending a fortune, but keep in mind that these are things that will be in your wardrobe FOR. EV. ER. so it's alright to spend a bit more on them! Think of how many times you'll use them mixed and matched into your trendier pieces!

Let's start with a piece that I'm pretty sure ya'll already have, but just in case you don't, we'll cover it. The white button-up (or button-down, whichever way you choose to dress yourself). Express makes AMAZING business casual clothing (as well as trendier pieces), and while they tend to cost a little more, the quality is worth it. Get one in white, and if you can afford it, get one in black too-I was searching for a plain black button up at our mall here and couldn't find one ANYWHERE. I had found the cayutest gold skirt that would have looked so adorable with a plain black button up. Boo.

Next up is the trench coat. Preferably in camel (that's my fave), but black or brown will work just as well. There's something about the contrast of the camel and the black buttons that makes me swoon. You can be wearing a hole-y t-shirt underneath it and no one would know you're a hot mess. Or, you could go the naughty route and wear it with nothing but your heels. Your choice.

Some of my all time favorite pieces in my closet are my cardigans; they're so simple, yet can really pull together a look. As a matter of fact, I'm wearing one today (probably my favorite one). Paired with a longer tank, skinnies, and boots, I actually look human. It's quick and easy-and you can get them for a freakin' steal at Old Navy! Target has some really soft ones too-I looooove the ones from Targe Boutique! ;)

Obviously it goes without saying that every woman should have a pair of dark denim jeans and black dress pants in their closet (although I obviously fail at both of those since I don't have either), and I'm sure a lot of you (especially if you have jobs) have those. Ya'll know where to get jeans and pants that fit you, so I don't really need to go into too much depth there.

Personally, I can never have too many basic tees. I just found an amazing fit at Target. They're the Mossimo women's crew neck tees and they fit so PERFECTLY! They're a little stretchy, but made from a super soft material, so you don't feel like you're stuffed into it. I plan on going back and buying a few more in white and olive green (this season's hottest neutral, btw).

A little black dress should be securely stored in your closet. You never know when you'll be asked on a last minute dinner date, or when you can't find anything in the stores to wear to an event (which literally JUST happened to me). Find something with clean lines and that isn't too short, but is still a little "sexy". Ultimately, this is going to be your "go to" piece, so make sure you love it and you're comfortable in it.

Here are a few more pieces that can be added as you go:
-Classic black pumps
-"24 hour bag"-something that can take you from day to night and isn't too big or too small
-A proper fitting suit
-A neutral printed scarf
-Black and brown belts
-A fitted blazer
-A fun/sparkly/ruffly/metallic tank/tee to wear under your blazer that can help you go from work to cocktails in less than 5 seconds.

and last but not least...

pearls, big sunglasses, and breakfast.

Whoa, it's been awhile!

Whew! It's been a whirlwind couple of weeks/months around the L household! The hubster came home from the 'Ghan and then we took a week to head back to the good ol' Midwest. I'm FINALLY getting a moment to sit down and think about what I want to blog about now and in the future. I need to find the discipline to keep up with this beast, I'm totally not willing to just let it go! Buuuut, it is a matter of finding the time with a toddler (who, btw, knows his ABC's already as well as his numbers 1-10!) and a house that needs constant upkeep! I'm also working on an Etsy shop, once I master some crafts, so that's going to hopefully take up even MORE time and bring in some revenue for me! We'll see!

I figured since it's been so long, I'd do a celebrity inspired look. I luuuurve doing those, and since they're fairly easy, it's a good way to slip back into things around here.

Ya know who's cute? Kristen Cavallari. Srsly. She's just adorable, and has KILLER style.

 I am uhhh-bsessed with this pleated leather mini look, hell, I would love it even if it WASN'T leather! It was NEARLY impossible to find a similar skirt, but after much "Bing Shopping", I found one! And get this, it's only $24! Granted, it's a lighter brown, but it'll do! Now obviously, it's not REAL leather, but it's still super duper adorbs! You can find it here, it's from a nifty little shop called Venus!

For the top, you could definitely just use a white button up from your closet, or you could find something a little more flowy and in something other than cotton. I have a really cute satin-y type top that would work perfectly if it wasn't a crop top (damn crop tops). I like this billowy button up from GoJane. They have some really cute stuff there! You could also get it in the blue color, add a little color, that'd be puuuuurty!

I love the bootie with skirt combo she's rockin' too. Can this girl do no wrong? You can go so many different ways with your shoes too if you aren't comfortable with booties (in that case, check out my bootie tutorial right here)! I'm kinda in love with these Studded Peep-Toe Booties from Charlotte, but if you aren't comfortable with those, you can pretty much rock anything. Seriously, even a pair of nude patent flats would be totally cute. There's even a pair of spikey heels that are similar! Can you tell I'm diggin' the tough/soft contrast with the bows and the studs? Orrrrr, you can go with a platform pump in any fun color (assuming you go with the white top)!

Kristen appears to be carrying a simple Chanel quilted bag, but if you're like me and your budget doesn't allow for those types of designer duds, Forever 21 has a pretty awesome "inspired" style. Check it out here. Otherwise, rock your own shoulder strap bag, and hit the town!

That's all for tonight, this daylight savings time is really kicking my rear!

A smorgasbord...

...of my current infatuations.

Enjoy!

1. The Muppets Collection by OPI...these colors are to. die. for. I've been looking for the perfect glittery polish to pair with my new fall clothes and I think I found it in "Warm and Fozzie" (like that cuddly Fozzie bear). It is the most purrrrr-fect bronze glitter shade. I'm also pretty obsessed with "Rainbow Connection" not only because it's my favorite lullaby to sing to my little nugget, but because it literally has every color in it. I think it's perfect for your holiday toes. So above and beyond...

Top row, L-R: Animal-listic, Meep-Meep-Meep, Pepe's Purple Passion, Wocka Wocka!, Designer, de Better!, Warm and Fozzie

Bottom row, L-R: Rainbow Connection, Excuse Moi!, Gone Gonzo, Fresh Frog of Bel Air, Divine Swine, Gettin' Miss Piggy With It

(Special thanks to The Queen of the Nail for this info!)

2. Payless's new collection of Fall booties: ZOMG...I am loving Payless this season! Their Fioni brand has some of the most stylish and affordable shoes which I am totally diggin'. I am particularly obsessed with the Tenley Lace Up Wedge Boot-it is the best camel color that will go so well with aaaaanything. I want to tuck these into my skinnies and pair them with an oversize sweater. A big, cozy, cream colored sweater.

3. Missoni for Target. 'Nuff said.

4. I'm always on the hunt for new lingerie-don't judge, it makes me feel shmexy. Forever 21 actually has a pretty adorable selection-it's girlie without being trashy (which, sometimes trashy is nice, but not for all occasions) and it's affordable! I'm particularly in love with this Sheer Floral Print Robe, and I absolutely luuuurve the frilly sleeves. So cute.

Well that's it for tonight-I'm gonna finish my Summer Shandy, watch the end of "Just Friends" and then hit the hay. I am exhaaaaausted! Night night my lusties!

Muah!

Carrie

My love for TJ Maxx...

I was always thoroughly disappointed with the Home Goods store in Burnsville (which was a bummer since it was basically in my backyard), so when I came back to New York, I didn't have much hope for the TJ Maxx in Wtown.

*Before I continue, for those of you who aren't familiar with TJ Maxx or Home Goods (they're the same store basically), they're like a Marshall's or Ross. Name brands for less basically.*

Aaaanyways, I went there yesterday out of sheer boredom, and happened upon racks and racks of gorgeous clothes. They had a lot of pretty coats too, which means I'll have to go back and check out the selection when it comes time to select one.

I'm not sure if you're aware, but I have a serious love/hate relationship with crop tops. I just can't figure out how to make them look right on my body and kinda feel like I'm a little too old for them. With that being said, I DO own two (that happen to be from Ross and TJ Maxx), and while I was perusing the racks yesterday, I fell in love with two shirts only to realize that they happened to fall into the "top that has been cropped" category. I was bummed but decided to try them on regardless since I liked the way they looked on the hanger. Tried them on and...AHHHHHH (angels singing)! They're gorgeous! I think they're perfect for a laid back Fall look and can take me into the Winter months as well.

So are you ready to see some looks I've put together with my new tops? Are you super excited? :-D

Now keep in mind that this is all stuff from my closet, and I can guarantee you that I bought most of it for under $25...

Look #1: This one is definitely more casual and perfect for a day spent sipping apple cider and taking hayrides!
Sweater: Aphorism from TJ Maxx-ONLY $16.99!
Jeans: &Denim by H&M (they are a couple years old but an AWESOME gray denim)
Tank top (worn underneath sweater): Zenana Outfitters from TJ Maxx (I'm pretty sure I paid like $4.99 for this too)
Scarf: Charlotte Russe bought 2-3 years ago
Flats: Old Navy-seriously, BEST PLACE EVER to buy affordable and stylish (and super comfy once you wear 'em in) flats!

Simple and cute, right?

Look #2: This one is better suited for a girl's night out type of event. The shirt is definitely dressier because of it's "satiny" look (although it's polyester). Since it is a little sheer, pair it with a cami underneath.
Blouse: Mimi Chica from TJ Maxx-and only $12.99!
Jeans: Same as above
Booties: Dollhouse from Ross-and they were only $19.99-BTW...Ross has the most EPIC selection of shoes. It's seriously amazeballs.
Earrings: Forever 21-probably about $4.80 or so
Bracelets: Charlotte Russe-Christmas gift from my mom, but I think they were like $8.50

close up of the purrrty jewelry (I need to invest in a better camera, my iPhone doesn't do these looks justice)

And since I just got back from H&M (ok, a couple days ago), I wanted to share just one more outfit that was styled totally by H&M apparel-well, besides the shoes and jewelry. And if my memory serves me correctly, the whole outfit (just the clothing) was under $75!

Look #3: I call this my date night/"Oh you want to go out NOW giving me only 10 minutes notice? And we're going to dinner at the new wine bar and then to the comedy club? Ok, give me a minute" look.
Tank top (which is a suuuper pretty rust color): H&M-$7-freaking-95! Shut the front door.
Blazer: H&M-$19.99 (I'm not joking)
Scarf: H&M-$12.95
Jeans: H&M-same as above
Earrings: Forever 21-probably about $4.80 again
Cuff-Charlotte Russe-$6.50 or so
Shoes: I bought those puppies at Target FOREVS ago and I think I got them on clearance for under $20.



So there you have it, I've expressed my undying love for TJ Maxx. And H&M, but I think we already had that covered. Remember that stores have BRAND NEW selections for Fall, so grab a friend and make a day of it.

Happy Shopping!

Muah!

Carrie