A Little Spring Shopping - May 2015

I may or may not have used shopping for wedding clothes and my weight loss as an excuse to buy some new clothes (and shoes, and a bag, and nail wraps). After hibernating all winter, I want bright colors and fun.

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Jumpsuit - This beauty was my answer to a casual wedding. I wore it with some great silver jewelry from Stella & Dot and the silver sandals. I can also wear it with a white blazer and some pumps to work or with strappy sandals to another event.

Graphic Tees - My affection for fun, graphic tees is well known. These two are fun new additions and nods to two movies I love.

Tropical Print Moto Jacket - This jacket was an impulse buy, which I rarely do anymore. I'm sure it's going to get lots of use because I love it so much. The tropical print is a spring trend but it's a little different done in a moto jacket.

White Jeans - I had to replace the white jeans I donated, because they were too big. I scored a pair similar to these from the Talbots Outlet, for only $34.

Jamberry Nails - I hosted a little Jamberry party for my friends and had quite a few hostess credits. These are a few of the patterns I purchased with my credits. I have become a Jamberry devotee. They look great and last two weeks or more. You can't beat that!

Paris Market Tote - This bag is one of my favorites. I love that I can carry all of my items for work and it still looks chic. I also own it in black.  The black version is on sale for 50% off right now!

Silver Sandals - I needed a neutral pair of sandals that would work for an outdoor wedding but also stand up to wet grass and dirt. I've ruined several pairs of shoes because of poor yard conditions. These were perfect and a great find. I snagged these at Saks Off 5th for $30.

My 2014 Birthday Wishes

It's Cyber Monday and lots of my fellow bloggers have published great lists of deals for Cyber Monday. Instead of repeating their wonderful efforts, just go to the list on the CapFABB site and click around. On Sunday I will be celebrating my birthday. I'm looking forward to some fun over the weekend and I'm taking a personal day next Monday, to play with {msL}. This year there were really only two things on my list, a vintage Chanel brooch and to hit a weight loss goal I've been striving for. The brooch is a big (expensive) wish and the weight loss goal is all on me. I've been working on that weight loss gift to myself. And I selected some reasonably priced gifts, in lieu of Chanel.

Stella and Dot Rose Gold Renegade Bracelet - I wear my silver Renegade bracelet constantly and have been eyeing this rose gold version for ages.

Pink Faux Fur Scarf (Asos) - This winter is supposed to be super cold. If I have to bundle up, I might as well do it in style.

Skull Clutch - The imprinted skulls, leather and oversize profile of this clutch are perfect.

Vintage Chanel Brooch - There are a few that I love but this quilted version is classic.

Stella and Dot Casablanca Pendant - This beauty can be worn four different ways. I love a versatile piece and I'm dying to layer it with my Stella and Dot Pegasus necklace.

posted to Instagram by Blythe (COO of Stella and Dot)

Zara Bulcher with Fringes - My brogues and oxford are regular rotation. I love these with the pointed toe and fringe.

I'm all about the accessories this year. They always fit, no matter your size and they are the best topping for an outfit.

If you're looking for some great accessories, try out Jamberry. My Black Friday fun is continuing through today. If you buy three sheets, you get one free (that's eight manis and four pedis)!

Also check out the great deals on Stella and Dot. There is lots of beautiful jewelry on sale and if you spend $50 you can get a fantastic clutch for only $9.95 (regularly $49).

Frugal Fashion Friday - Transition Pieces

My favorite wardrobe pieces are those that can be worn during multiple seasons. I have a floral skirt that you've seen a few different ways. I wear it in the spring and summer with light tops and sandals and in the fall with tights and sweaters. As the stores and online retailers clear out their summer merchandise you can take advantage of the discounts and snag items to wear now and into the fall. Here are just a few picks.



Printed Shift Dress - ASOS

 

A floral dress can be a versatile piece in summer and in fall, throw on a jacket (like the one below) and some pumps and you're ready for work. Dress it down by adding sneakers and a denim jacket.

 



Speckle Moto Jacket - Piperlime

 

I love tweed jackets! In a mid-weight, they are seasonless. It's also a timeless piece. I wear my tweed jackets with dresses and skirts, as well as with jeans and t-shirt.

 



DOCKLAND Sneakers in Gold - Asos

Slip on sneakers are an on trend item right now. In a color like this gold metallic, you can wear them now with shorts or a cute floral dress. You can also wear them into the fall and winter with warm socks, jeans and a sweater.

 

 

NYDJ Marilyn Straight Leg Jeans - Amazon

 

The old fashion rule of no white after Labor Day no longer applies. A cute tank and sandals can help you close out the summer in these jeans. Add a tweed jacket and swap out your sandals for some sneakers or ankle boots and you're ready for fall.



 

Linen Midi Skirt - ASOS

The length of a midi skirt makes it the perfect fall transition piece. It works in the summer with a tank or short sleeve top and you can wear it on cooler days with a sweater or a cute jacket.

 Do you have favorite transition pieces?

Frugal Fashion Friday - Sales with a side of Apologies

Hi Friends, I know it's been a long time and there has been lots of radio silence. Don't despair, I haven't abandoned you. I started a new job and I've been preoccupied with that work (a great new job) as well as some personal things. Fashion and you all have never been far from my thoughts. I'm going to try to improve my balancing act and begin posting more often again. I've been thinking over some additional summer purchases. Sadly, I don't have time for lots of fun pictures. I thought I'd share some great sale links with you (and one photo).

Nude Sandal - Asos

Nordstrom Anniversary Sale - great buys on high quality items

Zara - favorite store for fashion forward shoes, accessories and clothing (but no plus sizes:( )

Asos - one of my all time favorite European stores

Forever 21 - great for inexpensive trendy items

6pm - fantastic prices on designer jeans

 

These are just a few of my favorites. I will share more later. When you click the link, just look for the Sale link on their navigation bars. Even though we are in the middle of summer, retailers are already making room for their fall merchandise. If you want to find items that you can wear long term (and into fall), look for styles that are classic, like the nude sandals above.

Happy Friday Real Girls!





Monday Monitor Shopping - asos

Sometimes on chilly weekend mornings, I sit in my pjs and my fuzzy slippers, with my coffee and I monitor shop.  You know, the modern equivalent of window shopping.  Many people find this torture if they can't afford to buy. For me, it helps me to see what's out there and helps me to refine my list from "Ooo that's cute." to "I really have to buy that.".  I leave my credit card in my wallet across the room.  That way if I'm tempted to buy, I have to really give it some thought, get up from my comfy seat and dig for my card. This weekend I did a little monitor shopping at asos.

 

I'm thinking of warmer weather and gravitated toward bright colors and fun shapes.

Do you monitor shop?

 

Be sure to enter the giveaway for a skirt from Skirt the Issue!

Maximize Holiday Savings - The Math

I can't believe that I'm helping you with math. It's definitely not my strong suit. But when it comes to saving money on the things I want to buy, I'm all about it. Stores will be full of amazing deals this holiday season. You don't have to stop at the sale price. By stacking deals and rebates you can save even more.



Click photos above for buying information.

As a birthday present to myself (my birthday is Saturday), I made a purchase from Asos. I've had my eye on the hooded biker parka for sometime.  First I waited for the price to come down a bit and then when I saw the great discounts for Cyber Monday I knew I was ready to snatch this coat up before it was gone. In the process I picked up a couple of other items I had on my list and a little splurge (the faux fur collar).

Some of the items purchased (the coat and short sleeve top) were on sale. In addition to the sale prices and Cyber Monday discount (30%), I also used Ebates before I went to the Asos site and I used a credit card that also provided a store rebate for Asos. If you shop online and you aren't using Ebates, you should be.  It's easy, all you need to do is to register for an account and before you shop, go to Ebates. Search for the store name and click to shop. Ebates creates a tracking ticket and you'll recieve a cash rebate based on the percentage displayed for that store. Every quarter ebates will send you a check (or a direct deposit) that is total for all of your ebates. There are no strings other than going through ebates first. Many credit card companies and banks have also begun negotiating cash back deals with specific retailers.  If you use their card to make your purchase, you'll recieve a credit to your card, based on the rebate for that merchant. The percentage will vary per retailer and credit card company. For my card, I just had to log into their site and my account, go to the deals section of the site.  Then I selected the deals I wanted to use. New deals are issued on a regular basis. Each time I check my account, I check for new rebate deals. Check with your card issuer for details.

Here is how my savings breaks down.

Full Price (no discounts): $241.39

Total with Sale Prices:                      $169.69
Cyber Monday Discount 30%:          ($50.91)
Free shipping from Asos                      $0.00
Total paid to Asos at check out:        $118.79
Ebates rebate (5%):                               $5.94
Credit Card rebate (10%):                    $11.88
_____________________________________
Final Total:                                         $100.97

Just by going to Ebates first and using a specific credit card, I will get an additional $17.82 in cash back!  That is more than the cost of the short sleeve top.  My final total with all of my discounts and rebates is less than the full price cost of the coat! I got some great items for a bargain. Even with my scarf splurge, my total was just a little over $100. The 30% Cyber Monday discount at Asos is good until December 4th.

I hope you'll start using Ebates and check your own credit and debit cards for rebates.  It's worth it to take a minute to get those rebates. You can use the extra money to buy more gifts for loved ones or even yourself.

Asos Plus Outerwear · Big Chill Plus Sizes · Asos Outerwear

NOTE: The opinions expressed here are my own. I was not provided compensation from Asos or any credit card company. If you sign up for Ebates through the links above, I will earn referral credits.

Frugal Fashion Friday - Transition Pieces

One of the best way to make you fashion dollar go further is to purchase pieces that can be worn in multiple seasons. Using some of your summer pieces in fall and some of your fall pieces in late summer can help you through that time that is both warm and cool.  I've pulled together a collection of pieces that I already own (or own similar items).  Using pieces like these with some basics can help to transition you to fall.



Click on the photos above for buying information.

 

This faux leather peplum top is one of new favorite pieces. I can wear it with these plum jeans on the weekend or with dress pants and a boucle jacket to the office. Add the silver oxfords or the cage booties, a great bag and a statement necklace to finish the outfit.

This embellished sweatshirt stands alone. Wear it with the plum jeans, cage booties, and cap on the weekends or throw it on with a simple solid skirt for the weekdays. It's lightweight enough to wear now in a chilly office or later when there is a chill in the air. This necklace from Stella and Dot can be worn five different ways. It won't over conflict with the embellishment on the sweatshirt.

Easy pieces like these can be worn multiple ways and in lots of weather. Making your dollar go further. 

Peplum and Posies

A little over a week ago I was thrilled to order a pleather peplum top. In the process of ordering, I saw another peplum top in tan that I thought might be great for work. The versatile color and sleeves meant I could wear it in the office without a jacket. I don't own any peplum tops but after seeing them on quite a few of my curvy blogger friends I hoped the style would be flattering on me as well. I'm thrilled.  In fact, I'm considering ordering this top in other colors.

Top - Forever 21 (tan is sold out), Pants - ASOS (similar here and here), Bag - Lord & Taylor (old), Shoes - Coach (similar here) via Loehmann's, Sunglasses - D&G via Loehmann's Necklace - gift, Watch - gift, Bracelets - Stella and Dot and ?, ! Ring - Forever 21

 

I'm Obsessed Thank You Very Much - Cut Out Boots

My crazy obsession with cut out boots has reached a breaking point. I definitely don't need another pair. They aren't in my budget and I can't buy them.  Unfortunately, that doesn't keep me from looking at and Pinning every pair I see. They are cool, funky, versatile and I love them, I can wear them year round. I snagged the pair in the upper right corner (ASOS ATTACK Leather Gladiator Ankle Boot) before they sold out.  Now I'm lusting after a tan or light colored pair. 



Click the photo above for buying information.

Jeffrey Campbell is the king of the cut out boot. They have so may great styles to choose from.  I could have filled an entire page with just JC boots.  In fact, the majority of the boots above are JC boots. Most of the options I found (that I like) are over $100, which is a bit on the pricey side. If you love this look and want a pair, consider purchasing a pair that will carry over season to season.  Select leather, with clean lines and minimal buckles. I'd recommend the ASOS boots but they are sold out.  The Jeffrey Campbell Melina Cut Outs or the Ecote Gordon Cut Out Boots from Urban Outfitters (the least expensive pair) are good choices for staying power.

What's your latest obsession?

Frugal Fashion Friday - Update Your Look for Under $50

Every season, I want a few new items to help me update my look and I know I'm not alone.  Lots of times, my budget doesn't allow for a ton of new purchases.  I search for items that will freshen my outfits and make them feel new. Remixing items you already have is also a great way to update your look but we'll talk about that in a future post. My spring budget is small this year, due to wedding expenses and other plans for music festivals and our yearly beach vaca.  I'm going to add a few inexpensive items to my wardrobe to update clothes I already own.

Click above for buying information.

For less than $50, you could grab a fun statement necklace, a bright lip color and fun nail polish.  I love these combinations.

A sheer peach lip, a bright orange necklace and a turquoise nail just scream summer to me.  Pair them with shorts and a simple white t-shirt or a pretty sundress. Total - $24.29

A bright fuchsia lip, a tough but pretty ombre chain, and white nails are an 80's throw back. Add some slouchy, ripped jeans, a loose blouse and sandals for an easy weekend look. Or pair them with a simple dress for a no thought office outfit. Total - $17.98

A necklace like this one calls for a blank canvas.  I'd pair it with an LBD for evening or crisp white, men's style dress shirt for day.  The coral nails and pink lip are great additions without going over the top.
Total - $45.58

I'm picturing this combo for my beach trip.  A maxi skirt, some sandals and a pretty tank would be perfect for this fantastic turquoise necklace, plum lip and silver nails.  I wore this exact lip color on my wedding day.  It's an amazing pinkish purple that is bold but pretty. A metallic nail is a great compliment but it doesn't compete. Total - $36.49

How are you going to update your outfits for spring and summer, in a frugal way?

Lust List for Spring

Oh, if money were no object and I didn't have a budget to stick to, I'd buy all of the things I want. Unfortunately, I need to stick to a budget and I sometimes make hard decisions about my fashion and beauty purchases.  Today, I've compiled my lust list for spring. I'd love to have all of the items on this list.  Some are affordable, some aren't.  I may also be able to find some frugal alternatives.

First on my list are the ATTACK Leather Gladiator boots from ASOS.  I'm definitely ordering those.  They are amazing and the perfect bad girl option for spring. I'm in love with the military style vest from Boy. by Band of Outsiders. Of course they don't make it in my size, so I'll have to hunt for an alternative. The studded bag from Aldo is fantastic. The pinkish color turns the tough studs into a spring bag. I've had my eye on the Prada Baroque sunglasses for some time. I know there are similar versions available for much less but hey a girl can dream. Obsessed is a mild word for how I feel about fuchsia lipstick. I even wore it on my wedding day.  I've heard some friends rave about NARS Funny Face.  It's on my must have list. In the spring, as the weather warms, I have to switch from my heavy cream moisturizer to something lighter. Serums are my moisturizer of choice for spring and summer. I've read good things about Boots No. 7's version. It's affordable and available at Target.  Sold!  Every girl needs a little bling.  I used to have four holes in my ear but I let the upper two close. I just have my lobe and my cartilage piercings left. This ear pin is fantastic. It will slide into my lobe piercing but give the look of multiple piercings without any bulk or weight. It's sparkly, pretty, and cool. I may need to rework my spring fashion budget or get a second job.

What's on your spring lust list?

All Dressed Up In Love

Hi Real Girls! Please pardon my lack of posting. I'm getting married this Saturday!  Things are just a bit busy.  On Tuesday, {msL} and I went to DC to get a legal marriage license.  It won't be legal here in Virginia, where we live but we wanted to have a legal license.  We got dressed up for our little civil ceremony.  Saturday will be the date we consider our real wedding day. We'll be having a ceremony and reception with our family and friends.  Tuesday was great.  I started to cry when saying my vows.  I hope I can hold it together on Saturday. 

Dress - Asos, Shoes - Talbots (no longer available), Belt - DIY, Necklace - gift, ring - vintage (my grandmother's), Bracelet - Stella and Dot c/o Kristin Biggs, Earrings - Stella & Dot c/o Kristin Biggs

I'm Obsessed Thank You Very Much - Peplum Tops

I've had an illusion most of my life, that curvy girls can't wear peplum tops.  It began in my teen years, back in the 80's, when peplum tops and dresses were popular (the first time during my life). I was told over and over, you have hips. You can't wear a peplum. It will just make you look bigger. Well I call Bu!! S#*@!!!! I think they look great on all types of women.  And I love them. Here is my proof. Beautiful, curvy women wearing peplumss!

These ladies are some of my favorite bloggers and fashion gurus. From the top left (going clockwise): Girl With Curves, Heart, Print & Style, Grown and Curvy Woman, and Ashley Falcon. 


There are so many fantastic versions and options available.  I'm on the hunt for a leather peplum top but in the mean time I will settle for sequins, color and studs.

My Birthday Wish List - The Dream

Hopefully I'm not the only one that has a realistic birthday list and a dream birthday list. As a fashion girl there have always been those quintessential items that I want and long for but for me are not realistic. Mostly, it's because of the cost.  I just can't justify spending that much.  Others, they are possible but not in the budget right now. My realistic list is the one that I give to {msL}or my family when they ask what I want for my birthday. Today  I thought I'd share my dream list with you.  On Friday, my actual birthday, I'll share my realistic list.

 ASOS Leopard fur coat / Christian Louboutin leather pumps / Louis Vuitton Epi Leather Speedy / Alexander McQueen Knuckle Duster Clutch / Stella & Dot Pegasus necklace / Apple® - iPad® 2 / Levenger Circa iPad Foldover Notebook / TOM FORD Black Orchid Perfume

• A Leopard fur coat (faux of course) has been on my list for a long time. I found this version at Asos and love it but spending over $100 on a coat right now isn't in my budget.  I've started saving and hopefully it will still be available when my piggy bank is full.  
• The Stella & Dot Pegasus necklace is fantastic.  It's a little more expensive than most of the Stella & Dot pieces. I'm planning to use my hostess credits to buy it but I'll have to wait a bit to save the rest.
• Oh, Christian Louboutin, why do you have to make such great shoes?  And those red soles. They are irresistible.  There are lots of great styles but if I can only have one pair, they would be a classic pair I could wear for years. 
• Every time I use a friend's iPad, I feel a bit of envy.  My iPhone has become a piece of technology that I can't do without.  I'm sure an iPad would be the same.  
• As much as I love technology, I still love to take notes by hand. The Circa iPad Notebook by Levenger would be the best of both worlds.
• The Alexander McQueen Knuckle Duster clutch has been on my lust list for a long time. It's the perfect combination of pretty and tough.  I'd love to wear it with pretty dress. 
• A few years ago, I tried on Tom Ford's Black Orchid perfume and fell in love.  I didn't fall in love with the cost but it never left my must have list. Someday...
• The Louis Vuitton Speedy is the perfect bag for me. I love the top handles and size.  The simplicity of the Epi Leather and the single monogram are classic. 

My dream list is just that, a dream.  Hopefully, one day, when {msL} wins the lottery, I'll get the items on my list.

Fall 2012 Runway Trends - Graphic Prints

Well my friends, this is the last installment of the Fall 2012 Runway Trends series.  Today we are taking a look at graphic prints. There are so many ways to wear prints, there is something for everyone.  There are supposed fashion rules about not wearing prints on body parts you don't like.  Well, you know I'm a rule breaker.  I'm definitely not a fan of my thighs and rear but my current favorite pair of pants, are these paisley print pants from Talbots Outlet.  I got them for a steal and I love them! Thanks to my friend Jennifer of Comme Coco for the photo!

Me at a CapFABB event, picture by Jennifer Jean-Pierre of Comme Coco

Outfit details:  vest - thrifted via Goodwill, shirt - Target (no longer available), pants - Talbots Outlet (no longer available), shoes - Neiman Marcus Last Call (available here on ebay), bag - vintage Coach (90's), necklace - c/o Stella & Dot (Alexandria necklace available here) 

I'm loving this trend. It's fun to add that cool print to your outfit.  Even if you don't want to wear pants or a skirt, try a top, bag or shoes.  There are lots of cute and colorful options out there.  Try something new. Be bold!

Click on the photo above for details.

I'm especially in love with this amazing trench coat.  A fantastic way to wear print, via the collar and hem.  The clutch would be a fun addition to your weekend wardrobe and a great choice if you just want to add a pop. If  you aren't sure what to try, pick one piece that you love and keep the rest of your outfit neutral.  That way you can ease into the trend and try it out.  If you are ready to mix patterns, give it a try, like I did above.  Try a stripe and a pattern or a small print with a large print.  If you aren't sure about the combo, try it on and take a photo. It's easier to be objective that way. 

I hope you've enjoyed this series.  More fun things to come this fall. I've been in a crazy DIY mode lately and I have lots of projects coming up soon.

What do you think?  Will you try to out graphic prints?

Fall 2012 Runway Trends - White

Remember the fashion rule, "No White After Labor Day"?  Well, completely disregard that old and outdated rule.  This fall, white is HOT.  It was all over the runway in the shows for fall 2012, in all sorts of combinations.  Black and white combined was a big trend. White blouses have always been a year round staple but white was seen in pants, coats, jackets and in entire outfits.

I snagged a new white blazer that I've been sporting regularly. A winter white coat is polished an beautiful.  This one from Land's End even give a nod to the military trend with it's pea coat style.  You can never go wrong with white jewelry, year round.  It goes with everything and these pearl and enamel pieces from Stella & Dot, are fun and classic pieces you'll be able to wear for years. Pearls are a great way to do white jewelry.  A white watch is already part of my wardrobe.  The one looks like a more expensive designer style but it's less than $20.  Lace works with this year's brocade trend.  A top or a dress with lace is a pretty addition to your fall outfits.  Just add a jacket or a cardigan and they can be worn well into winter. White pants in the fall?  Yes, pair them with a chunky sweater and some boots and you'll have a fantastic weekend outfit.  This top handle bag by Dooney & Bourke, with brown accents will work with all of your fall favorites.  I'm in love with these winter white, flat boots.  The neutral color will go great with pants or a wool skirt when the temps drop.

Are you going to wear white this fall or are you sticking to the old rule?

Fall 2012 Runway Trends - Military

Today I'm continuing my fall trends series. It's no secret that I love the military trend.  Military has been seen for quite a few seasons now.  I'm very glad it isn't going away.  My cargo vest DIY is just the first of several military inspired DIYs coming up.  The key to wearing the military trend is to select one military clothing piece and accessorize with items that work with the trend.  If you pile on the military pieces you'll be in danger of looking like you are going to a Halloween party or that you just joined up.  Make your military piece the statement and combine it with more simple items for a chic look.

I love military jackets and vests. If you pick a light weight option, it's easy to layer with other items. Look for buttons or braid if you want a bit of flare.  Navy, olive, gray, khaki and camo are great colors for this trend. If you own a cape that you bought last winter in a darker color, it will fit right in with the military trend. It's a great piece that will accent some of your basic items like cargo pants.

Throw on some fun jewelry that accents your military look.  I chose pieces from Stella & Dot.  They aren't specifically military but the coins and the crown have the look of medals and work well.  The simple but stately studs accent the outfit without being overpowering. A cross body bag or satchel is sure to fit right in with your look. A classic rectangle with very few embellishments, can be worn for years.

You can't go wrong with a great pair boots. As much as I love studs, I think the classic lace up styles that look like girly versions of combat boots are the best. They're versatile and you'll be able to wear them over and over with lots of outfits.

Will you be embracing the military trend?

Fall 2012 Runway Trends - Bordeaux

The beauty of the bordeaux trend is that it looks great on all skin types.  It's a flattering color. There are so many items to be found in this rich, deep red.  You can take your pick. Select a little with a scarf, shoes, or a top or go all out with a dress, or skirt.  Try a hint of bordeaux with deep red lips or nails. It's simple to make this trend work for you.  I'll be embracing the bordeaux trend every weekend during football season.  My favorite team, the Washington Redskins, is all about the burgundy and gold.  If you still own a vintage Etienne Aigner bag or shoes, now is the time to pull them out.

Express Ruffle top / Asos Peplum top / Ann Taylor skinny pants / ASOS lace skirt / Chinese Laundry platform heels / Elie Tahari smoking slippers / ASOS cross body bag / ASOS studded clutch purse / Vigotti ballet flats / Asos Textured Knit Snood / Revlon Just Bitten Kissable Balm Stain, Crush / L'Oreal Polish Haute Couture Red

I selected a few items that are perfect for fall.  They are an affordable way to embrace the trend without blowing your budget.  You can select an item or two and still have money left to try out the other fall trends, I'll be featuring this week.  Go girly with a lace skirt or stay menswear comfy with smoking slippers.  A simple top is an easy way to wear bordeaux.  Just throw it on with your favorite jeans. Work or weekend, everyone looks great in bordeaux.

Work Day to Date Night the Easy Way

Long commutes and a long work day, usually mean that if I have plans after work, I won't have time to go home and change. I like to create outfits that are work appropriate but also easy to transition to an evening out. I've managed to score us tickets to a movie screening of the upcoming release, Hit & Run with Kristen Bell and Bradley Cooper. It will be a fun date night and I want to look great. So too my closet I went. Most of the time all you need to transition from day to night is an evening bag, some amped up make-up and a little shift in your outfit.

I'm fortunate to work in a relaxed office where many styles of dress are accepted. I love my trouser jeans because the dark wash gives them a dress pants look. In many offices, jeans aren't acceptable on any day but Friday. If jeans don't fit at your office, you could go for a pair of trousers or ankle pants. I like the idea of pairing them with a sequin tank. I'll cover it with a draped, cropped, blazer for the office and take it off after work. I grabbed some of my favorite jewelry that works day or night and my new favorite leopard heels. A studded top handle bag is perfect for day but I'll switch to a smaller clutch for evening. The studs will toughen up the pretty sequin tank. I'll change my lipstick from a subtle nude for day to a deep fuchsia for night and I'll add a bit more dark eyeliner for a smokey look. Those simple changes will take me from office to evening. So easy!

Frugal Fashion Friday - Friday's Fancies Summer Treat

This week has been so busy that I haven't had much free time.  This Frugal Fashion Friday post is going to be short.  I'm linking up again today, this time with {av} from Long Distance Loving.  I love her Friday's Fancies link ups.  They are fun ideas.  Today the challenge was to create an outfit inspired by a favorite treat.  I LOVE popsicles. I've loved them since I was a little kid and still love them. Early this week, I mentioned the recipe for the Cherry Lime popsicles that I found on Skinny Taste and pinned to Pinterest.  These yummy treats were my inspiration.

Click on the picture to view all of the details.

The combination of green skirt, sparkly top, brown platforms and the maroon flower scream summer and have all of the elements of this cool, fruity, treat.