So I'm slowly easing back into FL. I know I was gone for awhile, but it took some time to adjust to my new lifestyle. Forgive? Good, let's move on.
I was at For Love the other day, and I was looking at their necklaces and realized that I really want a necklace with a delicate charm on it. They had a really pretty four leaf clover one, but I wanted something more meaningful. I'm still not sure what I'm really looking for, but I thought I would share some of my favorites with you.
I love this Tea, Anyone? (Lulu's $12) charm necklace. It's so ladylike and unusual. I'm not a tea drinker, but I think I'd feel very prim and proper wearing this!
These Tricycle Race (Lulu's $10) necklaces are very nostalgic. I had a red and white tricycle that I used to ride up and down my driveway. There's a simple feeling of childhood that comes with this necklace that I really love.
My grandpa used to play the harmonica, so this Coin and Harmonica (F21 $3.80) reminds me of him. I think I might order this one, it looks so delicate and totally unexpected!
You can't get much more festive than this Cute Reindeer (F21 $7.80) necklace! I think it's perfect for the holidays without being overly cutesy, like a light up sweater vest. Pair it with a simple cream sweater and some buttery brown boots and you have a perfectly coordinated, comfortable, holiday outfit.
Any readers out there? I don't know about you, but I LOVE losing myself in a good book. A cold, snowy day is the perfect time to curl up with a classic novel. Or, if you're like me and don't have time to enjoy that luxury (unless your child decides to nap), you can rock this Cute Book (F21 $5.80) to show your love for the arts.
Last but not least, I found this Lace-Up Boot (F21 $4.80) which looks a bit like a combat boot. I couldn't leave out my military girls, so here you go. If you're like me and don't like rockin' the dogtags (but to each their own), this is a cute way to pay homage to your man.
That's all I've got for today. Liam is playing CONTENTLY by himself on the floor, I think I need to relish this moment a little more.
Happy Shopping!
Tuesday, November 30, 2010
Monday, November 29, 2010
It's holiday party season!
You've just gotten word that your husband's unit is throwing a holiday party. Tonight. He, of course, has known about it for weeks, but "forgot" to tell you until today. So you now have less than 8 hours to find something to wear. Let's hope there's a mall nearby. If not, check out these pieces, see if you have something similar in your closet, and then rock it.
There are many different types of holiday parties. Depending on the setting, you can usually get away with cocktail attire. Think business casual type clothing, but stay away from the pantsuits and button up shirts. Now is the time to show your co-workers (or your significant other's depending on whose party it is) your personal style. Remember to keep it appropriate, but it's ok to have a little fun and add some sparkle.
I'm going to break it down piece by piece, so you can build your own outfits! Happy Holidays!
Skirts:
There are many different types of holiday parties. Depending on the setting, you can usually get away with cocktail attire. Think business casual type clothing, but stay away from the pantsuits and button up shirts. Now is the time to show your co-workers (or your significant other's depending on whose party it is) your personal style. Remember to keep it appropriate, but it's ok to have a little fun and add some sparkle.
I'm going to break it down piece by piece, so you can build your own outfits! Happy Holidays!
Skirts:
Pants:
Dresses:
Blazers/Cardigans:
Tops:
(Macy's won't let me post a pic)
Thursday, October 21, 2010
Just an update!
Hello my lovely fashionistas!
I just wanted to let everyone know that I'm going to take a break for a week or so and enjoy my last few days with my fam-a-lam. In case you weren't aware, my husband is deploying to Afghanistan for a year, so we're trying to spend as much time together as we can. I know you all understand how important family is! I'll be back sometime next week after I'm settled in my new place and hopefully have a computer!
Until then, happy saving!
I just wanted to let everyone know that I'm going to take a break for a week or so and enjoy my last few days with my fam-a-lam. In case you weren't aware, my husband is deploying to Afghanistan for a year, so we're trying to spend as much time together as we can. I know you all understand how important family is! I'll be back sometime next week after I'm settled in my new place and hopefully have a computer!
Until then, happy saving!
Saturday, October 16, 2010
Military looks!
Yeah, yeah, yeah...maybe I'm biased, but you've gotta admit that this is a pretty badass look. I'm not telling you to go out and buy head to toe camouflage, but mix a few pieces of the military inspired look into your wardrobe and you'll have the fellas saluting you in no time! Omg, that was so cheesy, moving on...
I'm ashamed to admit this, but I used to own a shirt that said, "My boyfriend is in the Army". Haha, how embarrassing, right? Once I realized that I didn't need to go around flaunting my [then] boyfriend's profession (I mean, how many t-shirts do you see that say, "My boyfriend is a Plumber"?), I started mixing in more subtle military inspired pieces. Nowadays, you can find stuff at just about any store you step in to. I was just at Target, and they had a ton of mil pieces. Pretty awesome. As always, you don't need to do this look head to toe. I'd suggest sticking with one main piece like a cardigan or cargo pants, and mixing in more feminine or basic pieces to complete the outfit.
I love this sweater. It looks really cozy and the color goes with just about anything. I think it would look perfect with a floral print tunic underneath. Something along the lines of this Lush Bow Camisole (Nordstrom $28.00). Throw on some jeans and add some Buckle Fringe Clogs (F21- $28.80) to complete your look.
Let's try a military look on the bottom with these adorable Cargo Denim Pants (F21- $24.80). Personally, I think the shoes that they paired with are way too clunky, but that's neither here nor there. Since the bottoms are so fitted, I'd pair them with a more relaxed, slouchy-type top. This Tonal Stripes Sweater Tunic (F21- $17.80) would be perfect! To make the look more polished, add a pair of nude heels like these from F21 (they're only $23.80). A Rustic Metal Elastic Bracelet (F21- $10.80) to top everything off finishes the look.
This Perfect Fall Knit Dress is only $14.50! Seriously. It's perfect for fall, and you can always add a pair of tights when it gets a little chilly. Actually, I think I'd wear black tights with it regardless! I really want to try the "combat boot" look, but I'll admit, it is a little scary. This pair of Combat Ankle Boots (F21- $35.80) aren't so scary, and would work well with the whole monochromatic look that we've got goin' on here. I use the term "combat boots" very loosely because they look nothing like the real combat boots and that makes me giggle a little bit. Before you head out the door, throw on this Rounded Hem Blazer (Charlotte Russe- $34.50) and you're set! This Vintage Beaded Necklace (F21- $6.80) adds the perfect pop of color.
So there ya go, three looks that will help you pull off the military look.
Buuut, if you want a real military look, check this out:
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Let's try a military look on the bottom with these adorable Cargo Denim Pants (F21- $24.80). Personally, I think the shoes that they paired with are way too clunky, but that's neither here nor there. Since the bottoms are so fitted, I'd pair them with a more relaxed, slouchy-type top. This Tonal Stripes Sweater Tunic (F21- $17.80) would be perfect! To make the look more polished, add a pair of nude heels like these from F21 (they're only $23.80). A Rustic Metal Elastic Bracelet (F21- $10.80) to top everything off finishes the look.
This Perfect Fall Knit Dress is only $14.50! Seriously. It's perfect for fall, and you can always add a pair of tights when it gets a little chilly. Actually, I think I'd wear black tights with it regardless! I really want to try the "combat boot" look, but I'll admit, it is a little scary. This pair of Combat Ankle Boots (F21- $35.80) aren't so scary, and would work well with the whole monochromatic look that we've got goin' on here. I use the term "combat boots" very loosely because they look nothing like the real combat boots and that makes me giggle a little bit. Before you head out the door, throw on this Rounded Hem Blazer (Charlotte Russe- $34.50) and you're set! This Vintage Beaded Necklace (F21- $6.80) adds the perfect pop of color.
So there ya go, three looks that will help you pull off the military look.
Buuut, if you want a real military look, check this out:
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Sorry, I had to.
Alrighty, I'm done. Happy Saving, and Happy Saturday to all!
Friday, October 15, 2010
Mixing prints-it doesn't have to be scary!
Mixing prints is the hottest trend nowadays. It takes a lot of guts to pull it off, and can be a total disaster if not done properly. But...when it's done right, it can look stylish, polished, and very fashion forward. I'll admit, this is new territory for me, so bear with me and we'll learn together, mmkay? Alrighty, let's dive in.
The simplest (and least scary) way to start is to mix your accessories. Pair a geometric patterned bag with a pair of tiger print heels. Just make sure that they're in the same color family. The shoes pictured are gray with black stripes (fairly neutral), so try to find a bag that has gray in it, be it dark or light.
Not too scary, right? Ok, now let's add the accessories...deep breaths...
This bag has only gray tones in it, so it's an easy match. I might tie a colored scarf around the handle just to add a pop of color (I tend to wear a lot of neutral colored clothes), but you don't have to.
See? That wasn't so scary now was it? Do you want to try a little more? Ok, let's go...
Another way to try this is to break up your prints. Maybe pair some patterned leggings with a solid color top, but add a playful scarf to the mix.
I really like these Floral Print Leggings from Old Navy. They're subtle enough, but still have a nice print to them. They come in blue as well, which is what I'd buy. I have enough black leggings, that this blue shade is a nice change. Tie this scarf around your neck, and you're done. Congratulations, you're mixing prints!
(Is it weird that I'm slightly freaking out as I write this? I feel like you guys are reading a personal journal entry or something and am scared of being judged! Anyways, moving on...)
Alright, we're pulling out the big guns now. Let's try mixing a top and a skirt. You think we can pull this off? I hope so. The first top I picked isn't an all-over print, but has a pretty large floral motif on it. I really love the gray and the pink together, it's really pretty!
Pair it with this skirt:
Whattya think? I really like it!
I seriously am freaking out right now. I have this huge pit in my stomach. I think because this is the first time I've truly taken a risk in this blog and paired things together that I know not everyone will like. Some people may look at these at think, "W.T.F.?!" and to be honest, that kinda scares me. But it's whatevs, I dig these looks and I hope you guys do too.
I also just want to take a minute to say thanks. I'm honestly so surprised that I have twelve followers and that people are giving me shout outs on Facebook. I'm in awe that you care what I have to say. Seriously, it makes me feel like I am on the right career track and it gives me hope that I'm at least semi-good at what I'm passionate about. So thanks again for all your support, I really appreciate it.
It's FRIIIIDAY!
It's raining and a blustery 45 degrees outside today. My previous post about keeping it chic under nasty conditions got me thinking about my Winter must haves. Yeah, you can still wear a lot of your Summer clothes during the Winter as long as you layer, but when it comes to beauty products, all that changes. I don't know about you guys, but my skin is dry enough to begin with, and when that cold air hits, it gets even worse. I'm talkin' flakes and patches-it's nasty. I used to work for Benefit Cosmetics, and my counter manager introduced me to their awesome moisturizer called Dear John ($32.00). Before then, I had yet to find a good moisturizer that actually sunk into my skin and made a difference. This stuff turned my world upside down-in a good way. I also realized (very late, I knooow) that my skin not only needed moisturizing-BADLY-but also a good exfoliation. Especially during the colder months, that dead skin (nasty, I know) piles up on top of each other, and while the moisturizer hydrates, it doesn't get rid of the dead cells. Exfoliating will. I find it easiest to do it in the shower-just make sure you close your eyes tight because that stuff STINGS if it gets in your eyes! I use two products to exfoliate and cleanse. First, I use Beyond Belief Vita C+ Exfoliating Apricot Citrus Scrub (Sally Beauty Supply- $6.49), then, to cleanse, I use Olay Clarify and Cleanse Scrub to really deep clean and exfoliate. This product doesn't really "scrub" the way the Beyond Belief stuff does, so I use it more to clean out my pores. The Beyond Belief product doesn't really cleanse either, so they work pretty well together. After I'm done cleaning, I make sure to PAT DRY. Rubbing is only going to make things worse. I give my skin some time to dry, and then I moisturize. I just discovered Garnier Moisture Rescue Refreshing Gel-Cream and I LOVE IT! It tingles and cools when you put it on so you can really feel it working. It's non-greasy as well, so even if your skin is more on the oily side, you can still use it. After using all three of these products, my skin is so soft. Ok, I'm done with my beauty rant for now...I just wanted to share, but I'll let the cosmetologists give you their tips instead of my "I don't know what I'm talking about, but I'll just pretend to" advice. ;)
Alright, let's talk fashion...
I WANT A LEOPARD PRINT SCARF. You would think that since animal print is huge now, that this would be an easy task. But no. Everything I find is either fleece or too wispy. I want something thicker, but not made of fleece. Is that too much to ask? My mom has this super cute velvet Ralph Lauren leopard print scarf that I'm considering yanking from her house. It's perfect, and now that I have my cream colored pea coat, I think I need it more than she does. I came across a black metallic leopard print scarf at F21, that would be cute with a dress and tights-and it's perfect for those of you who are a little wary of trying the animal print trend. Oh, and those shoes in my logo? Mine. Love them, and I think I've worn them too much because that little metal part in the heel is now sticking out causing to me constantly slip on the dance floor. My mom has already yelled at me numerous times to put a heel protector on them, but I prefer to live dangerously. I'll take my risks, and plus, after a few brewskis in me, most of my shame goes out the window anyways. Here's the link to the scarf, give it a try...F21 Metallic Blend Scarf- $8.80. For those of you that are feeling a little more risque, there's a fabulous faux fur leopard print vest with a belt included-WANT!-F21- $29.80. Just stay away from the leopard print tights. Please.
I'm going to take a little break, but I'll probably be back later. My husband claims he's going to clean the kitchen, so I should probably go supervise.
Alright, let's talk fashion...
I WANT A LEOPARD PRINT SCARF. You would think that since animal print is huge now, that this would be an easy task. But no. Everything I find is either fleece or too wispy. I want something thicker, but not made of fleece. Is that too much to ask? My mom has this super cute velvet Ralph Lauren leopard print scarf that I'm considering yanking from her house. It's perfect, and now that I have my cream colored pea coat, I think I need it more than she does. I came across a black metallic leopard print scarf at F21, that would be cute with a dress and tights-and it's perfect for those of you who are a little wary of trying the animal print trend. Oh, and those shoes in my logo? Mine. Love them, and I think I've worn them too much because that little metal part in the heel is now sticking out causing to me constantly slip on the dance floor. My mom has already yelled at me numerous times to put a heel protector on them, but I prefer to live dangerously. I'll take my risks, and plus, after a few brewskis in me, most of my shame goes out the window anyways. Here's the link to the scarf, give it a try...F21 Metallic Blend Scarf- $8.80. For those of you that are feeling a little more risque, there's a fabulous faux fur leopard print vest with a belt included-WANT!-F21- $29.80. Just stay away from the leopard print tights. Please.
I'm going to take a little break, but I'll probably be back later. My husband claims he's going to clean the kitchen, so I should probably go supervise.
Happy Saving!
Outerwear + Accessories = Winter Chic!
The one thing I actually enjoy (and I use that term very lightly) about Minnesota winters is buying a new coat, gloves, scarves, and hats/headbands. I figure that if I've got to live in this frozen tundra, I might as well look good doing it. Coats, jackets, and other winter accessories are in no short supply in my neck of the woods, you can find them at pretty much any store. There's so many ways that you can mix and match your pieces to your mood or the occasion, your options are limitless!
Let's start with coats and jackets. Here are some of my faves:
Ahh...how fun! I love animal prints!
This would look adorable over a mini cocktail dress. Or maybe a long, sequin tunic with tights. This coat is the perfect mix of demure (in the cream color) and badass (with the studded shoulders).
Ohmygoodness...the stripes! The buttons! The faux fur removable collar! There isn't a thing about this coat I don't love.
This one is a little more casual, but I love all the pockets w/the zippers, and the hood is pretty awesome as well. The layers are already built in which give this jacket a very easy, nonchalant look.
Now that you've got your main piece, you can start accessorizing your look. There are really only three things you need to add here (besides your warm footwear)-a hat/headband, a scarf, and a pair of mittens or gloves. Don't expect to survive -30 windchill without ALL of those.
We'll start at the top and work our way down...first up, hats and headbands...
I classify this as "skater chic". It's laid back enough that you could wear it with the black jacket, but still stylish and warm. Loves it!
I'm not a hat person. I love them, but I look ridiculous in them. I really love wearing headbands during the Winter because they don't mash down my hair, but they still keep my ears and forehead warm. This one is wider, which I dig, and has a cute little rosette on it. Plus, the color is bright enough to warm up any dreary day. It would look amazing with any of the jackets above, but I think it would look best with the navy blue striped one. :)
Doesn't this look so soft and snuggly? It looks big enough that it would cover your ears and forehead as well. I hate when hats are cute, but don't serve any purpose. Us Minnesota girls don't mess around with those! Wear this one with any of the jackets, especially the animal print one-it adds that perfect POP! of color.
More hat links:
Moving downwards, to the neck...
Infinity scarves take all the guesswork out of how to properly wrap your scarf. Throw this over your head and wrap it around a few times...VOILA! Instant, perfectly wrapped, scarf.
I like to match my headband/hat to my scarf, so that's why I chose this. I think the mustard color looks so good with the navy, but it could also go with the cream. Stay away from the black in order to avoid looking like Bumblebee from Transformers. ;)
More links for scarves:
Last but no least, the hands...
(no pics here, just links since all the awesome ones are from Target):
Cashmere gloves for under 20 bucks?! Ummm...YES PLEASE!
These are the best color ever! I think they're pretty badass and would look stellar with the cream colored jacket.
If you're going to survive, you'll definitely need a cozy warm pair of mittens!
I'm diggin' the soft buttery color of these!
As always, remember to make it your own!
Happy Saving and Happy Fall!
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