What I Want - Fall 2014

For the last few seasons I've created a board on Pinterest and saved my must have items for the seasons. These are the items I really want and are on the top of my list. They will be the first items to get my fashion budget.



Click on the photos above for buying information.

Matte Wine Lipstick - I'm loving matte lips right now and as you know I'm a huge fan of the Maybelline Color Sensational line. They just came out with some of the colors in a matte finish and I love the wine shade, Divine Wine.

Tweed Moto Jacket - Moto jackets are so versatile. I have traditional leather options. This tweed version adds a polished twist to the tough moto silhouette.

Fun Graphic Tees - Graphic t-shirts with cool sayings and phrases are on my must have list. When I spied this t-shirt, I had to have it. A shirt that says, I EAT GLITTER FOR BREAKFAST is so me.

Pointed Toe Loafers - Heels are great but I constantly find myself gravitating toward my flats and low heel options. The pointed toes bring more sophistication to these loafers.

Leopard Clutch - Leopard is a fall trend but I've had an oversize statement clutch on my must list for several seasons and haven't found one that's perfect. This one from etsy is fantastic.

Faux Leather Midi - I've been hunting for a midi length leather or faux leather skirt for a while now. Short skater skirts are easy to find but those don't work for me. This length is perfect. It's on the top of my list.

Beach Packing - Must Have List

We leave for our annual beach trip on Saturday. Every year when I pack, I promise myself that I won't overpack. I pledge that I will take less and that I will wash clothes if needed. That pledge hasn't exactly worked out well in the past. We rent a house with a washer and dryer. There is no reason I need to bring tons of clothes. It's just more "stuff" to bring. But the fashionista in me is always afraid that I will get there and won't have what I want to wear. It is likely a fashion girl freakout instead of a real fear. We are at the beach in North Carolina, after all. Everyone is wearing casual clothes and relaxing. It's not a see and be seen kind of place. I am working hard to stick to the "no overpacking" mantra this year. I've created my must have list and the other items will be held to a minimum.

My Goodwill Trunk Show Caftan

Jersey Dress

San Diego Hat Company Sun Hat

Target Panama Hat (I bought mine last year.)

 

DIY Cut Off Shorts

Ray Ban Green Mirror Aviators (great prices on amazon.com)

Silver Birkenstocks

Gold Gladiator Sandals (bought on amazon.com)

Sarong (bought years ago)

 

Of course bathing suits are on my list but the items above are the additional ones that I can't live without. Some are new (the gladiators, aviators, and the caftan) but the rest are old standbys and items I wore often last year. Add a couple of t-shirts and tank tops and I will be set. By choosing silver and gold sandals, I can minimize the shoes I take. These metallic shades work with everything. I'd also never go to the beach without a big hat and sunscreen. Neutrogena is my favorite face lotion because of the high SPF and it doesn't make me break out. Hawaiin Tropic lotion is always my choice for my body, when I'm lounging. I love the smell. When I'm active, I use a spray that is water resistant like Coppertone Sport. Please be safe and don't forget your sunscreen. Just one burn can damage your skin for a lifetime. I'm battling brown spots that are the result of sun damage from my teens and twenties.

 

 



 

 

What are your beach must haves?

 



My Must List - Summer 2014

As my style has evolved and I've become more selective, my seasonal must lists become smaller. I'm more discerning about the pieces that I add to my wardrobe. If I'm going to spend the money, I want them to be quality pieces that will last. I save the super cheap purchases for trendy items. Now that doesn't mean that I pay full price for my long term purchases. I still look for the best price and the best value for my money.

photo credits: Pink Peonies, Getty Images, Ms Treinta

The images above scream summer to me. Sun, beach, warm weather, sandals, white, and bright colors are all the best of summer fashion. They inspired me to make a few updates and acquire a few new summer items.

Click the photos above to view buying information.

I've been obsessed with mirror sunglasses since I wrote this post two summers ago. I purchased a couple of bargain pairs last summer and then Ray Ban released some new mirror versions. These green aviators are fantastic. I might just have to take the plunge. You can't get more classic than Ray Ban aviators. A big tote has been my constant companion lately. It can hold everything. I love this Rebecca Minkoff MAB tote in hot pink. A great summer update to a classic shape. I've been loving lace up sandals but I knew a 4 inch high pair wouldn't get much wear. I tend to gravitate more toward my 2.5 inch heels and below. Lucky for me, over the weekend I scored a pair by Nine West at Nordstrom Rack. I posted a photo on Instagram. I'm in love! A super flowy maxi dress in a bright color is high on my summer must list. I love this trapeze style that can be worn loose or belted. I'm in desparate need of a new swimsuit. We live by the pool and at the beach all summer. My suits have seen better days and I've had a retro one piece style in mind. I love this one in white.

What is on your summer MUST list?

My Must List - Transition Pieces

This time of year my closet is always too full. Because of the unpredictable weather (it was almost 70 degrees and sunny on Saturday and 30 degrees and snowing on Monday), I'm not able to pull all of my winter clothes and still can't wear my spring duds. Transition pieces that can pull double duty are the best options right now. Those items that will work with my winter and summer clothes. Items that I can layer and are seasonless are required.



Click on the photos for buying information.

• This full graphic print skirt works with tights and a sweater now but will also work with strappy sandals and a light top later.
• Yes, they're white but the timeless, cat eye shape of these sunnies classic and seasonless.
• Jewelry isn't really a transition piece but I love this rose gold version of my favorite Stella & Dot Renegade bracelet. I know I will wear it constantly. 
• This print bomber can be layered with a light sweater now and worn with a t-shirt later.
• Leopard slip on sneakers! So cool and comfortable. They will be my weekend go to pair.
• Leather pants will work now and well into the spring, with a chunky sweater now and a flowy top in warmer weather.
• These almost Balenciaga boots are a major look for less. I can wear them now with socks and later with bare feet.

What's on your Must list?


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