Grace-fully Chic

My girlfriend, Grace, has always had the gift of a fabulous fashion sense. And as you can see from the pic above, she is still rocking that style in her present life in the windy city of Chicago. She assembled this top-notch outfit with the help of some of our fave stores (details below). Loving her necklace/collared top combo - always a hit in my book. Here is what I love about Gracie...she doesn't have to be flashy and overly dolled up...she just has a naturally polished look. Keep on keeping on, Gracie girl.
Skirt: Theory  Blouse: Joe Fresh  Shoes:  Joe Fresh  Bag: Zara  Necklace: J.Crew

J.Crew Junkie

Who says conservative can't be cute? This new top from J.Crew is the perfect amount of non-flashy and leopard. Topped with a vintage-looking chunky J.Crew necklace, Joe's Jeans and some Dolce Vita loafers and I had myself a nice little Monday work outfit. I've been rocking the necklace over a collared top for a bit now but this pop of color/shirt combo is my new fave.
Belt: Ann Taylor Sunglasses: Ray-Ban  Shoes: Dolce Vita  Shirt: J.Crew  Necklace: J.Crew  Jeans: Joe's Jeans

This Teal's a Steal

This new teal dress from H&M (only $20!) is one of my new faves. In real life, this garment is actually a little emerald green than in this photo. Emerald green happens to be my favorite color...enough said. Since this satin dress is a solid, I was happy to pair it with some neutral color snakeskin t-strap heels and flashy jewelry. 

Orange You Glad You're So Fabulous?

Orange is everything right now. From your fingertips to your hair clips to your wedges. Such a brilliant color for perfectly bronzed summer skin.
Vase: Crate & Barrel  Necklace: Ruby & Pearls  Earrings: Ruby & Pearls  Polish: L'Oreal, Essie, Essie
Blush: L'Oreal  Hair Clip: Sally's Beauty

Knot-ical

If I could wear a maxi everyday, I would. I am a huge fan of this maxi dress (Ann Taylor Loft) that has mirrored blue hues, giving an edgier feel. The rope belt solidifies a nautical look and who doesn't love that in Southwest Florida? To keep it simple, I paired this dress with metallic silver sandals and silver jewelry. 

L.O.V.E.

LOVING this new LOVE ring from Francesca's. In addition, another new fave are these mid rings I found at Francesca's also. If you know me, you know I'm hopeless romantic so I adore all things "love". Added bonus...it's blingy!

Fuchsia Friday

Nothing more liberating than wearing jeans on Friday to work. There is also nothing more liberating than wearing a $100 blazer that you got for $12. This fuchsia blazer, from the Kardashian Kollection, was such a steal. Paired with this funky tee from H&M, I was able to spice up my dark skinnies. I topped off the outfit with 3 chunky silver bracelets and black wedge heels (got to sneak in the extra inches where I can!). Skinnies: Flying Monkey

California Coral

Summertime and coral just go together. This week's mani is by Essie (California Coral). If you're struggling on what polish color to get, go the safe route: mint or coral. 

Smitten Kittens

I mean...everybody's doing it. So, I had to try but not without my own spin. This head wrap/band has kitties all over it. Now we are talking my language. I tried my new treat with a bun for a Saturday pool day. What a great way to keep my baby hairs around my face out of the way and even better - spruces up my sloppy, lazy bun! Find this black and white one at Francesca's.

Loafer Land

I just can't pass up a cute pair of loafers. These Dolce Vita suede loafs are perfection. With white soles, they are perfect for the summer. Fresh shoesies are amazingggg.

Perfectly Pink

Nothing better than a fun, bright pink lipstick. Nothing. Except for...free fun, bright pink lipstick. This Laqa & Co. Lil' Lip in hot pink from Birchbox is fab. The pencil-like application gives you ultimate control and the sassy hue is major for bronzed summer skin. The lipstick even has a little light gloss to it so it's not too matte for the summertime. This product gets my seal of approval.

Ready to Rawr

Who says you can't have two great finds in a day. This tiger bikini, available on www.TopShop.com, is brilliant. Tigers seem to be on garments everywhere right now and I'm digging it. Look ferociously fierce in this swimsuit for only $64. Go get you one, girl...right meow.

Fashion Find of the Day

This funky fresh dress is available on www.NastyGal.com and is on SALE. I love the white and royal blue together (the blue is my fave shade currently). Of course with it's slinky effect, you can't just roll into any venue with this on but how perfect for a fun night out of drinks and flirting? 

Finding Love in Loft

My girlfriend, Mary, LOVES Ann Taylor Loft so on our recent shopping trip, I tagged along into a somewhat unfamiliar land. Not only did I find this cute eyelet dress, but also a fabulous maxi. I love this black number...conservative enough for work but short enough to make me not feel blah. I paired this outfit with some espadrilles from Aldo (my faves). I kept the rest of the outfit simple (pearls, Michael Kors watch, Tiffany & Co. bracelet, Betsey Johnson sunnies).

Mani Monday



It's that time of the week again...Mani Monday! Until I find the perfect white polish, this "Mod About You" OPI shade will do, darlings. Take your time on colors like this...it can easily look sloppy if the layers don't look even. Get your pink on, ladies.



Bargain in Blue

When I shop, I mean business. I'll shop anywhere as long as I'm finding items that I love. However, I do find myself spending an abnormal amount of time in H&M. I mean, they have everything under the sun that is fun and trendy...not to mention AMAZING sales. This dress, above, was $10 at H&M on sale. I'm totes serious. Like....10...dollars. Find these ivory slingback heels at Aldo.

Bookcase Boost

I've been looking for little ways to spice up some of my home decor. While I have a bookcase, I felt like doing a little something like above in my room would be cute and something new. I found this "@" piece at TJ Maxx for about $6. 

Get You Some Gladiators

Sam and Libby designing shoes for Target? Pure brilliance. How am I not going to buy these gladiators that are a combo of my two favorite things: leopard print and studs!? Find these and plenty of other fab styles at your nearest Target.

Floral and Fresh

What is more fun that having fresh flowers in your home? Besides large diamonds - nothing. After an exciting trip to Fresh Market, I am stocked up on fresh fruits, veggies, snacks and beautiful pink peonies (my favorite flower). I've spent half of my day staring at these beauties. Of course, I'm all stocked up on cucumbers and limes - my favorite way to freshen up my water!

Fashion Find Friday

Nothing breaks up the day like doing a little stress-relieving shopping on your lunch break. With only a little bit of time to see if J.Crew had anything to offer me, I did a quick browse and found some goodies. I can't stop into J.Crew without picking up a couple solid colored v-necks. I go through a few white v-necks from there a year. So, naturally, I grabbed a white top and a heather grey one, as well. These make the perfect top to pair with just about anything...flirty, floral skirt, bright skinnies, trousers, shorts, blazers, etc. In addition, I found these pretty necklaces for 50% off. That's the kind of world I enjoy living in, my dolls. 

Tan (Finger) Tips to Toes

The beauty of Birchbox is getting to try out samples of treats and finding out what works for you and what is just hype. My gal pal, Mary, suggested I try this self-tanning towel/wipe from Comodynes Urban Cosmetics. Since the storm rolled in as soon as I slipped into my bikini this afternoon, I decided today was the perfect time to try out this product. I followed the directions and made sure my skin was moisturized before using the wipe on my body. I, as always, made sure not to concentrate on areas such as elbows, ankles and knees. Results show in 3 hours. While I did have a good base tan, I didn't notice an orange-tint. I was pleasantly surprised with the non-drastic results. I would definitely use this product again...I'll try anything twice. 

Pretty in Pink

Pink is everything right now. Of course, if you asked me, I'd say pink is everything all the time. This pink sweater, by J.Crew, is the perfect pop of color with this Forever 21 white flirty skirt. My bedazzled white flats from Francesca's bring together the outfit with the silver, blingy jewelry. This necklace, from Charming Charlie's, dresses up the sweater. The bracelets (vintage, Francesca's, vintage) are a fun chunk of silver to break up the pink on my arm. Who doesn't feel lovey in pink? 

Pregaming Wrinkles

In my amazing package of goodies from L'Oreal, I found something I was extremely excited about...anti-aging products. While I may be in my 20's, I want to do whatever I can to prevent wrinkles so I don't look like a bag of bones and wrinkles when I am a bit "wiser". I've been using these products twice a day (once before work and once before bed). The Revitalift for eyes is intended to not only help with dark circles, but also to fight the fine lines that accumulate around women's eyes. The concentrated serum is my favorite product of the three. It feels like silk when you apply it to your face. Who wouldn't like that? The moisturizer (in the jar) is a daily must. Overall, after over two weeks of using this line, my skin feels smoother and softer. I also think my dark under eye circles are not quite as dark. Mission "Pregame Wrinkles" accomplished.

Honey, They're Real

I'd been hearing fabulous things about Benefit's mascara so of course, I had to try it for myself. "They're Real" has a wand that has a spiky end helping to add volume after you've done the traditional mascara application. While I do think it works well, I'd have to say, L'Oreal's Telescopic mascara worked just as well on my lashes and is a fourth of the price. I can't deny that Benefit's version probably does have better ingredients, in the end, all that matters to me is how big, long and luxurious my lashes look. Telescopic, for an over value and bang for my buck, you win.

Crew Necks: Cute AND Comfy

One of my favorite things in the world to buy is J.Crew t-shirts. I love their v-necks...I love their crew necks. I look for any opportunity to wear these comfy but cute tops. When I was frantically searching through my closet for a top to wear with my navy lace skirt. This J.Crew orange/red crew neck was the perfect choice. I added a little detail to the outfit with gold accessories, including gold and snakeskin Jessica Simpson heels. 

Jewels & Sweatshirts? I'm All Ears...

What's the most genius fashion idea ever? Let me tell you, honey. Adding jewels to sweatshirts? Brilliant!! H&M is where I go to find funky pieces that I won't love for eternity but are perfect for right now. This sweatshirt was the perfect top to wear on a casual jeans friday to look cute but not be uncomfortable. Find this sweatshirt at H&M for $10. Stealing and dealing.

Skulls & Studs

To continue with my skulls addiction, I mixed in a new Francesca's purchase (on sale for $4.99) that adds the perfect amount of color and spunk to my arm party. The large studded bracelet (also $4.99 from Francesca's) has also joined the party. The other two bracelets are a little less on sale and a little more on the classic side (find these at Tiffany & Co.) 

Totally Tulle

After an (at the time) irrational tulle dress purchase back in college, I was bound and determined to find another time and place to sport this gem. So, I did what I always do. I wait until right before I am going to go to bed and I just stand inside my closet, looking around. This yellow blazer (H&M) just made sense. To keep it work appropriate, I didn't go for my tallest heels. Instead, I opted for these patent leather Franco Sarto dolls. To top it off, I did my fun bun. For accessories, I chose my hot pink ostrich clutch and my blinging studs. Ballerina or boss lady? Who said you have to pick one?

Chevron Chic

Chevron is all the rage right now so obviously I will have to partake in the fun. I feel extra sunny as a blonde when I wear yellow, which I love. Paired with another fun color, like my H&M ($10) cobalt blue pants here, is a perfect summer work look. Add some fun arm party (here the common theme is gold) and you've got yourself an outfit. I kept the heels neutral (Jessica Simpson) so there wasn't any distraction. I did, however, slab on a hot pink lipstick (complements of Urban Decay). The clutch brings it all together (Banana Republic circa 2007). 

This Teal's a Steal

I'm a huge fan of Sinful Colors polish because they have some pretty out-of-this-world colors - perfect for summer. This teal, however, is one of my favorites. Find this brand at Walgreens for around $2. That's a steal.

Peplum, Patterns and Heels...Oh My!

A rushed morning turned out to create one of my favorite outfits so far this year. Pairing my favorite leathery peplum top (Off 5th) with my funky fresh graphic pants (Forever 21) turned out to be a great decision. I topped off the outfit with this fun necklace from H&M and these Kelsey Dagger leather gladiator heels. Love love love.

Skulls Can Be Sassy

While I may be quite the girly girl, I must admit...I love skulls. I don't know what it is about them...but I dig them. With that said, I couldn't pass up this black studded skull tank I found (TJ Maxx - $12.99). Lord knows I'll be over skulls by next year so no need to break the bank on the top. Paired with a blazer, mustard jeans and some wedge heels, I was able to wear this to work. Never mind that a coworker asked me if I was into biking (motorcycles) this week. Skull on, my darlings.

Blue Moon

I'm all about this royal blue right meow. Essie's "Bouncer, It's Me" is phenomenal on toes or fingers. 

Espadrilles Are Everything

On a rainy day packed with movies and facials, you want to look presentable without being too fancy. I kept in casual in some dark denim shorts but jazzed the outfit up with a gold Ann Taylor belt, my favorite espadrilles from Aldo and and Ann Taylor Loft striped top. Keeping it classic with red, white and blue is one of my favorite looks. I kept the jewelry simple with some sparkly studs and my two-toned Michael Kors watch.