Hunting and Gathering

I'm a HUGE fan of the upscale discount store. Fortunately, I live close to Potomac Mills. It's a so called outlet mall. In most cases I truly doubt that many of the stores are true outlets. Outlet shopping has become such big business many brands are creating lines for their outlet stores that have their label but have a lower quality. The exception to this is the department store outlet. My three favorites are, Nordstrom Rack, Saks Off 5th and Neiman Marcus Last Call.

These stores supply shoppers with overstocks and last season merchandise at great prices. Nordstrom Rack has a fantastic shoe selection, just like their stores. My closet is a testament to this. Saks Off 5th has clothes in all sizes and a great purse selection. Neiman Marcus Last Call is on the higher end of the price range but if you are looking for high end, their prices can't be beat. On a recent trip, I found Manolo Blahniks, originally $500 - $750 for $200 - $325. They also have a great bag and sunglasses collection as well as many designer buys. Saks Off 5th and Neiman Marcus Last Call offer additional discounts and coupons if you sign up through their websites.

I'm touting these stores because I just had a fantastic trip to Nordstrom Rack. I had been coveting a pair of Michael Kors McGraw slingback wedges. They were listed for $129.00.



At the time they were a bit high for me so I decided to wait. Then I saw them on sale. I was thrilled but unfortunately, they didn't have my size. I went hunting and of course, I couldn't find them anywhere. Yesterday I decided to do a little retail therapy. I went to Nordtrom Rack. Searching through the racks and the shelves for a great deal is a zen like experience for me. I was just about to leave empty handed when, on the bottom shelf I spied the Michael Kors wedges! They were camel suede but I didn't care. I looked at the price and I was even more thrilled. They were $36 with an additional 35% off! I searched the rack a little more and found another pair in black and cream snake skin with a black patent platform! I left the store with two pairs of the coveted Michael Kors wedges, for less than 1/2 of the original price.

If you'd like to indulge in some great bargains, all three stores have searches on their sites. Check to see if there is a store near you. If there isn't, maybe you could plan a trip to the DC area and hit Potomac Mills on your next vacation.

Search for Nordstrom Rack, click here.

Search for Saks Off 5th, click here.

and

Neiman Marcus Last Call, click here.

Happy Shopping!

Costume for a New Year

I'm finally back.  I took a much needed break over the holidays.  Using some of my vacation time, I spent time with family and friends, made Christmas presents and rested. Work and wedding planning have been my focus this week but I'm back in the swing now. We hosted a New Year's Eve party at our house for a few friends.  This year we decided to have an 80's themed party.  Everyone dressed as their favorite 80's icon.  We listened to a fantastic 80's playlist, compiled by my friend and music maestro Carl and even drank Bartles and James wine coolers. I decided to dress as Madonna.  I knew I had a few pieces I could use but I wanted to buy some new ones that I could wear after the party and into 2013.

1) Contrast Moto Jacket - F21, Leggings - Torrid, Rhinestone Necklace - F21 (no longer available online), Bangle Sets - Nordstrom Rack and Bloomingdales, Sam Edelman Peyton (no longer available, similar here) - Nordstrom Rack

 
My friends at Potomac Mills Mall invited me to come to the mall and shop in the Fashion District.  They have great stores like Nordstrom Rack, Neiman Marcus Last Call, Forever 21, Torrid, Bloomingdales, and TJ Maxx. They gave me a gift certificate to use during my shopping adventure.  I was thrilled to shop in some of my favorite stores.  You've read about my amazing finds from Nordstrom Rack and NM Last Call. It was so hard to choose my items. It was sensory overload and I kept finding all sorts of other great items. Staying focused was hard. I knew I wanted to get some great pieces that I could wear over and over and I had to keep my eye on the goal.

This is a photo heavy post. You can see and read more after the jump.

Outlet Shopping - The Choices

This weekend my sister and I did a little outlet shopping at the Talbots Outlet in Virginia. I love this outlet because the items they sell are the same ones that have been online and in their stores.  I started thinking about the differences in outlet shopping. Did you know that outlet shopping has become such big business that some companies create lesser quality, lower priced items specifically for their outlet stores? It's a switch that they don't tell you about. One of the ways you can tell is by the tags. If the tags say outlet on them, the items were made specifically for the outlet and will not be sold in higher end stores.  In this case, you'll also notice that some things have been skimped on. Items may not be stitched the same way, lined, or have as much hardware.  The corners or seams may not be reinforced as well.  These are things that will make your items last longer. If that's not a concern for you, go for it.  The item is still a great deal if you love it and will wear it often.

I live close to an outlet center.  I am very picky about the stores that I frequent.  I find the real bargains can be found in the department store outlets like Nordstrom Rack, Saks Off 5th, and Neiman Marcus Last Call.  These stores have high end, designer merchandise at bargain prices.

I've sung the praises of Nordstrom Rack in previous posts you've also seen me wearing lots of items I purchased at the store. There is a bit of looking and hunting that has to be done at these stores. There are very few pretty displays and lots of sorting. If you're willing to do the work, bargains can be found.

My favorite story is about a designer trench coat that I fell in love with at Nordstrom. At full price it was over $400. Way out of my budget at the time. I walked away and decided to start saving. I told myself if I could save the money then I'd go back. I saved and went back but it was gone. I started searching, even asked a clerk to do a store search for me but no luck. One day I was wondering around Saks Off 5th and saw some jackets hanging on a rack. I wandered over to look and I almost fainted. The coveted trench was there, in my size and it was a little over $100!  On top of that, I had a coupon to get an additional 15% off. I couldn't believe it.  I saved over $300!

I've been able to buy some high quality clothing that I'll wear for years because of these department store outlets. I've heard that Nordstrom Rack is having a huge end of the season sale. If you live near a location and have time and money, it's a great place to score some deals.

This is Thirteen

ZZZZZZZZ....   Can you hear that?  It's the sound of me napping. I have a confession, I'm not even at the half way point in 30 for 30 and I'm getting a little bored with my outfits. My biggest mistake in my choices was not including more color. You can tell because I've worn this sweater three times already.

The sun finally came out yesterday when I wore this outfit. Luckily I could throw in some additional color with my scarf and I grabbed some cool shades.

Sweater - Ralph Lauen thrifted, Trouser jeans - Old Navy, Shoes - asos, Belt - Target,
Scarf - Givenchy thrifted, Sunnies - Fendi via Nordstrom Rack, Earrings - South Moon Under,
Ring - Tiffany, Bracelets - Craft Show

This scarf is one of my all time favorite thrift/vintage finds. It was in a grab bin at a little store in New Hope, PA. I got it for $3 and it's Givenchy!  The sunnies are a pair that I only wear occasionally, They are a bit stretched. I got them at Nordstrom Rack on clearance for $30. Not bad for Fendi.

Scarf - Givenchy thrifted, Sunnies - Fendi via Nordstrom Rack, Earrings - South Moon Under,
Ring - Tiffany,



Craft shows are a treasure trove of beautiful items at amazing prices. Twice a year there is an amazing craft show that takes over the entire town of Occoquan, Virginia. The streets are closed off and are filled with vendors selling all types of art, jewelry, crafts, and food. I purchased these from an artist that was visiting from Florida. I feel terrible that I can't remember her name. I bought six bangles that day. They were all made from different types of wood. The blue one on the left is so cool. It's made from bamboo but I think it resembles snakeskin.

I'm really going to try to get some wardrobe inspiration over the next few days. Send me some good mojo, my friends.

Rock n' Roll Saturday Night

We went out to dinner on Saturday night and I had to sport my new t-shirt. It was a fun outfit to wear and comfy too. These pictures make it hard to read the wording on the t-shirt.  Make sure to check out yesterday's post for all of the DIY details.

Tuxedo Jacket - Gianfranco Ferre via Saks Off 5th, T-shirt - DIY, Jeans - NYDJ via Nordstrom Rack, Shoes - Taryn Rose via Nordstrom Rack, Bracelets - vintage and Premier Jewelry, Ring - DIY, Watch - gift, Earrings - Shecky's Girl Night Out, Lipstick - Maybelline Fifth Ave. Fuchsia, Nails - Revlon ColorStay in Rich Raspberry

DC Fundraising Chic

Back in April I did a little guest post on GalTime for the Friday's Fancies feature. As part of that post, I did a frugal version of Friday's Fancies.  It was lots of fun shopping with an unlimited budget. Reality can be harsh but fun.  I enjoy hunting for bargains and this past Saturday, I wore my frugal version of Friday's Fancies to a fundraiser (with some slight modifications). 

In my rush to leave the house, I forgot my camera, so these pictures were taken with a camera phone by my good friend and the Mayor of Occoquan, Earnie Porta. I'll be writing soon about the beautiful town and their great Craft Fair coming up June 4th and 5th.

The event I attended was an annual fundraising dinner put on by the Prince William County Democratic Committee.  I'm a member and attend each year. For many years I've worn a black satin ball skirt (with many different tops) that I purchased at Saks off 5th for $40. It was easily the best formal purchase I've ever made. It has been a great value.  The jacket I'm wearing in the photos below is the same kind of piece. It's an italian made, Gianfranco Ferre tuxedo jacket. The original price tag was over $500. I purchased it for $60 and I've worn it to formal events and with jeans and a tee out to a bar.

Tuxedo Jacket - Gianfranco Ferre via Saks off 5th, Top - AK via Nordstrom Rack, Skirt - Avenue,
Shoes - Prada via DSW, Watch - HSN, Earrings - Nordstrom Rack, Ring - DragonWeave Jewerly via Amazon

With the exception of hose, I wanted to wear sheer black and didn't own any, my entire outfit was already in my closet. Here is the cost breakdown:

Gianfranco Ferre Tuxedo Jacket - $60 (originally $500)

AK Ruffle Top - $15 (originally $59)

Avenue Sequin Skirt - $10 (originally $40)

Prada Satin Mary Janes - $89 (originally $500+)

Kenneth Cole Earrings - $11 (originally $30)

Watch - $59

Ring - $40

TOTAL - $284

Not bad considering I would have paid more, originally, for either the tuxedo jacket or the shoes.

I LOVE these shoes with a capital L but I don't wear them often. They kill my feet.  The classic example of comfort being all about how shoes fit your feet.  They don't fit my arch so I feel like I'm standing on the ball of my foot all night. I added some padding but it didn't help much. I still love them. 

Shop Now, Wear Forever - Via a Nordstrom Sale

It seems strange to think of spring now but retailers are beginning to get their new merchandise, which means markdowns.  You can cash in on their need to clear their racks and score a great deal.  Some of the items on sale can be worn now and into the spring. If you choose wisely, you can find some classic pieces and some trendy items for a bargain. I've had my eye on a great pleated chiffon skirt on Nordstrom.com and since it's half price I decided to order it right away.  My online shopping excursion got me thinking about the great sale items that you all could buy now, on sale, and wear forever. Nordstrom has free shipping and returns and the quality of their items is top notch. You know me, always looking for quality at a great price.

Solid V-Neck Cashmere Sweater
One of my favorite Christmas gifts was a crew neck cashmere sweater in fuchsia. I've been wearing it constantly.  Cashmere is timeless, it transcends seasons and can be dressed up or down. A v-neck is flattering on all body types. It will never go out of style. $50 is a bargain for a cashmere sweater!

Women's V-Neck Cashmere Sweater $49.90 and Plus Size V-Neck Cashmere Sweater $54.90

Pleated Chiffon Maxi Skirt
When I first spied this sheer cobalt blue chiffon maxi months ago, I was smitten.  As you know, my clothing budget is tight and $54 wasn't in the cards.  On top of that, I couldn't decide between the blue and the black. I know that some of you ladies don't feel maxis flatter you.  This semi sheer version could be your chance to change that way of thinking.  The under skirt is knee length but the sheer overlay won't make a petite woman appear shorter and it's sexy.  The micro pleats at the top of the skirt flatter a woman with curves. It could be dressed up with heels and dressed down with boots or flats. You could wear it now with a sweater or jacket and into the spring with a tee or a tank. When I realized it was now 50% off, I had to take the plunge. 

Women's Pleated Chiffon Maxi Skirt $33.90 and Plus Size Pleated Chiffon Maxi Skirt $26.90

Low Heeled Booties
I love my heels but it seems that my lower heel shoes get the most wear.  I also love wedges because of their stability. A 3 inch wedge doesn't feel as high to me as a 3 inch stiletto. This winter I've been gravitating toward my booties.  They're versatile and also stylish. They look fab with a pair of slacks or jeans and also great with a skirt or dress. Nordstrom is known for their shoe selection.  These are both available in two colors.  The Clarks booties come in sizes 4 - 12!  They are a bit on the pricey side for sale shoes but they are leather and their understated, classic style means you will be able to wear them for many years.

SamEdelman Wilma Bootie $86.90 and Clarks Water Row Bootie $86.90

Interesting Cuff Bracelet
A metal cuff in an interesting design can be worn with all types of outfits.  It can dress up a tee and set off an LBD. The rose gold of this one is on trend but timeless (it also comes in silver). I love the curves and the diamond dust finish. For only $24.90, it's a great buy.

Diamond Dust Cuff $24.90

Leather Tote
Studs, buckles, sequins and embellishments are fun but there is something to be said for simplicity.  A leather tote in taupe or black can be worn with everything in your wardrobe.  It can go with you on your weekend errands, carry your laptop to work, and serve as your carry-on for a flight. This tote has classic lines and leather can last you a lifetime.  It's a bargain for only $48.90. It's available in taupe and black.

Halogen Everyday Tote $48.90

All of these items are available from Nordstrom.com and you'll even get free shipping. You can also shop Nordstrom Rack online via the same site. I've already ordered the Pleated Chiffon Maxi in cobalt blue and black.  I couldn't pass them up at $26.90 each.  Two skirts for the price one cost originally. With a little searching you can find some great deals on items that you can wear for years to come. I may have to recheck my budget and do a little more shopping.
 

The Future's So Bright

I purchased this skirt a couple of weeks ago. I got it in black and in this bright blue color. They were on sale and I decided that the bright blue would be great for spring and summer. I combined the bright blue with a great green sweater tee that I've owned for years, some new bright pink flats that were discounted at Target and my favorite moto jacket, because it's still cool in the morning.  This day it was in the low 70's. I'm still shocked that we are having 70 degree weather in DC, in February.  This outfit was insprired by the post "Pop" by fellow DC fashion blogger Lacey of A Lacey Perspective.  I love her bright neon skirt and striped sweater combo.



Jacket - Mossimo for Target (no longer available), Sweater T - Isaac Mizrahi for Target (no longer available), Skirt - Bobeau via Nordstrom (now at Nordstrom Rack), Shoes - Target, Bag - Calvin Klein, Belt - Talbots, Necklaces - gift (monogram), Tosca, Simply Vera Vera Wang for Kohl's (no longer available), Ring - JewelMint (Metal Mosaic Ring), Earrings - ? (very small czs), Sunnies - Dolce & Gabbana via Loehmann's, Lipstick - Maybelline Fuchsia Fever, Nails - Essie Steel-ing the Scene

Months ago I fell in love with the Chelsea sunglasses by House of Harlow 1960. They retail for $138 and that wasn't in my budget. Last Monday, I stopped by Loehmann's and got these Dolce & Gabbana sunglasses with a similar shape for just $40!

Warm Weather Menswear

This outfit was inspired by my sister.  On Friday night we went to the Nationals game and she was wearing a tank sweater under a men's vest. It looked so chic that I had to try it for myself. I thought I'd add the fedora and watch pendant to enhance the menswear look.

Tank - Target, Vest - Goodwill, Cropped Pants - Goodwill, Sandals - Simply Vera Wang Kohl's,
Sunglasses - DKNY via Nordstrom Rack, Fedora - Eugenia Kim for Target, Earrings - gift,
Watch Pendant - gift, Bracelets - Finder's Keepers, F21, gift 

I hope you all had a great July 4th holiday weekend!

Beach Trip - Adventures in Trying Not to Overpack

I'll be enjoying a vacation at the beach this week. I've set up a few posts this week. I'll share pictures with you when I return.

I'm a chronic over packer when I go on trips. My Honey and family can attest to this fact. In the last few years I've tried very hard to plan my outfits so that I don't take a bunch of clothes I don't need or won't wear. There have been trips where I only wore about half of the clothing that I packed.

I've read a million strategies on packing. Some work for me and some don't. One of the best tips I picked up was to pick coordinating color palettes when packing. It helps me to keep from packing clothes that are random. Right now, I am loving the aqua and coral color palettes. It feels so summer and beachy to me. Even the items I'm bringing that contain other colors will still coordinate with that palette.


I also try to semi plan my daily outfits. I have an outfit for each day with the flexibilty to change things up on a whim.  I also pack a bunch of jewelry and accessories. They don't take much space and can take a simple tank or tee from day to night.

Here is what I packed for our week at the beach...

Clothes and Accessories

2 mix and match tankini suits (4 pieces): Land's End and Catalina
2 sarongs: beach shops in Key West and North Carolina
Maxi cover up: Target
Kaftan with seqins: Target

1 pair of cropped pants - black: Goodwill
Poncho tee - off white: Neiman Marcus Last Call
Gray tencel tee: Target
Multi knee length dress: Kohl's
Maxi dress tank style - aqua ombre: Target
Maxi dress hi-low - floral: asos
Maxi skirt - aqua: Lane Bryant
Assorted tanks - white with sequins, coral, orange: Target and Old Navy
Open cardigan - white: Calvin Klein

Workout clothes and running shoes

Shoes
beach flip flops: Havianas via Nordstrom Rack
flat sandals- silver: Simply Vera Vera Wang for Kohl's
Birkenstock - silver: Sandal Factory
cage suede booties- tan: MIA via DSW
wedge strappy sandals - beige: Sam Edelman via DSW

2 hats: San Diego Hat Co. and Eugenia Kim for Target

Canvas Bag: Loehman's
Belt: Lane Bryant
Jewelry: various (see below)
Small bag for the beach - island shop, Isla Mujeres Mexico

assorted undies, bras, and a half slip
pj pants and tanks



Accessories and Jewelry
Fedora - Eugenia Kim for Target, Sun hat - San Diego Hat Co, Belt - Lane Bryant, Bag - Loehman's,
Silver Bangles - Kohl's, Freshwater Pearl necklace - art show, Flower ring - VA Museum of Fine Arts gift shop,
Sienna bracelet - JewelMint, Potion necklace - JewelMint, Mosaic ring - JewelMint,
Unlock My Heart Necklace - JewelMint, Crystal Skull necklace - Kohl's, Chain and Safety Pin necklace - DIY
Silver stud earrings - Taxco Sterling, Turquoise stud earrings - Penelope

As you can see, I didn't think you needed or wanted to see my undies and bras.  I also didn't get a picture of all of my shoes. With the exception of the Fedora that I'll be wearing and the bag, which I'll be carrying, everything fits in my medium sized duffel bag. My makeup and beauty items will be in my Mary Kay Travel Roll-Up Bag. It's the most genius travel item ever! I don't know how I ever lived without it. If you'd like to purchase one of your own, just click here.

Beach here I come!!!

Frugal Fashion Friday - Easy Holiday Party Staples

It's really hard for me to believe that next week is Thanksgiving.  The year seems to have flown by and the Holidays are upon us.  That means Holiday parties and events for work, family and friends. There is a party or event happening almost every weekend from Thanksgiving through New Years.  I love Holiday parties, getting together with friends and dressing up.  At lots of these occasions I will see the same faces.  It sounds a bit Hollywood but I don't want to show up in the same outfit twice. Even more important, I want to feel stylish, confident, and at ease. There are also those impromtu and last minute events where I'll need a quick outfit that will look great.

Over the years I've come up with some strategies for these events. I've bought some stand by items that have served me well and they are my go to party items. I feel polished and confident in them and they are easy to mix and match with great tops and accessories to create an easy to throw together party outfit.

My Go To Party Items

• Tuxedo Jacket - They are available in all sizes, styles and price points. You can wear it with a skirt or a pair of jeans and look polished.
• White Dress Shirt - Pair it with your tuxedo jacke or your satin skirt, ala Sharon Stone (see below).
• Great Tee - A simple, well fitting t shirt in a neutral color can dress down your maxi skirt or be a blank canvas for your tuxedo jacket and statement necklace.
• Stand Out Shoes - Choose a pair that fit your personal style, taste and comfort level. I have a pair of heels and a pair of flats, I choose based on my mood and need for comfort.
• Statement Necklaces - I have several but if you only want one, pick a version that suits your personality.  You can wear it to a party or to dress up your jeans and tee.
• Satin Maxi Skirt - I love my satin maxi skirt. I have worn it so many times to different events and it's my go to for evening weddings. If satin isn't your style, try chiffon, or silk.

I found all of the items listed above at a bargain.  By checking department store outlets like Saks Off 5th and Nordstrom Rack, I scored the satin skirt ($40) and tuxedo jacket (Gianfranco Ferre, $60) for a steal. I also own a men's tuxedo jacket that I bought at Goodwill for $6. My white dress shirt is a no iron shirt. It makes it easy to wash and care for. A t shirt with stretch in a fabric like Tencel or Modal will keep its shape and drape beautifully.  I used to select party shoes just for their looks but after suffering through many parties in pain, I've changed my way of thinking.  I now own a few pairs that look great but feel great as well. I even own a pair of party shoes that are flats. Statement Necklaces can be found in every price point.  Check out discount retailers like Target and Kohl's for amazing bargains.  A satin or dressy maxi skirt can be your go to for many fancy events and parties.  I've worn my to fundraising dinners as well as evening weddings.  It's a simple palette that can be dressed up or down. In searching the web I found them in every color (mine is black) at bridal retailers for less than $50!

I mix and match my tuxedo jacket with jeans, skinny pants, and skirts.  I've worn the skirt with a white dress shirt, t shirt, chiffon blouse and more.  Pairing them with a statement necklace, stand out shoes and a fun bag can take these basic staples to the next level.

Many celebs have mastered the art of amazing party outfits.  My favorites are those that mix the fancy with the simple. Here are a few of my favorites.

Sharon Stone in her GAP t shirt
at the 1996 Academy Awards

Sharon Stone wearing
her husband's white dress shirt and a Vera Wang skirt
at the 1998 Academy Awards 

Olivia Palermo wearing a tuxedo jacket, flats and cigarette pants

Basic go to pieces are the key for me when dressing for parties.  It takes the stress out of deciding what to wear or buying a new outfit every time.  New outfits are fun but my budget doesn't always allow for that extra purchase, especially during the holidays.

Tuxedo Jacket, $10 Sequin Skirt, Bargain Stand Out Shoes (Details Here)

T Shirt and Statement Necklace
(also wearing my satin maxi skirt, not pictured)

What's your go to party ensemble?

Classics with a Twist

This dress and sweater are two of the pieces from my shopping trip last weekend. I'm sure this classic shirt dress will get lots of wear throughout the Spring and Summer. The khaki means that I can mix it will lots of other colors. The sweater is so versatile and light. I'm sure I'll wear it lots of ways. I threw on the bright blue shoes to add a pop of color to the neutral ensemble.

Sweater - Calvin Klein via Macy's, Dress - Lane Bryant, Belt - Kohl's,
Necklaces - Kohl's, Shoes - Coach via Nordstrom Rack



The only thing I don't love about this dress is how easily it wrinkles. I snapped my photos after a day at work so you all are getting the full wrinkle effect.

Sunshine and Flowers

I had a great Sunday afternoon. It was a beautiful, warm and sunny day. My Honey and I did a little shopping and then went to visit family and have dinner. It's so great to see the world through the eyes of a child.  That carefree look at life is amazing.  I got to take some outfit pictures with my favorite modeling partner Laila, who obviously upstaged me.

Sweater - Old Navy, Shirt - Kohl's, Pants - thrifted (Goodwill), Belt - Talbots Outlet
Shoes - Tory Burch via Nordstrom Rack, Sunglasses - Chanel, Necklace - Kohl's, Watch - Loehmann's and DIY

Take Me Out To the Ball Game

On Sunday my sister invited us to watch the Washington Nationals play the Florida Marlins.  We had a fantastic time!  Great weather, beer, hot dogs, and the best ball park companions ever. What more could a girl ask for?  I debated about my outfit. The weather said it would be in the high 60's but a little breezy.  I wanted to be comfortable but didn't think I  needed a coat. I wanted to wear some Nationals insignia to support the team but the only team shirt I own is short sleeved. I've been dying to break out my faux fur vest, ever since I watched that Rachel Zoe marathon on Bravo. Here it is folks, my very eclectic ball game outfit. By the way, the Nationals won!!!

Shirt - Target, Jeans - Lane Bryant, Faux Fur Vest - Rachel Zoe for QVC,
Hat - Nationals Team Store, Shoes - Donald Pliner via Nordstrom Rack, Bracelets - JewelMint and Goodwill
Sunglasses - Ray-Ban

Twenty-Seven Strangers

The beauty of 30 for 30 is coming up with combinations that you wouldn't normally put together. I don't know if I would have worn this dress with this shirt, without the challenge. Now this dress has taken on a whole new identity. It went from polished, dressy to tough, dressed down.

Dress - asos, Shirt - Target, Boots - Two Lips via DSW, Tights - Lane Bryant,
Bracelets - Nordstrom Rack, Kohls, Saks off 5th, Rings - gift, JewelMint

A Basic Foundation

I love edgy, funky and standout pieces but I mix those with my classic pieces that stand the test of time. These go to basics are a great foundation, no matter your personal style. A while back I took a basic t-shirt and jeans and added accessories and shoes to make three different outfits. These basics can work for anyone as a foundation for their wardrobe.



Click photos for buying information.

At first glance these items don't seem exciting or stand out.  That's really the point. They are the foundation of an exciting wardrobe. They are the canvas for your statement necklace or coat, your fancy top, or that amazing jacket you just had to buy. You can even mix and match these basics for some great outfits. Add a few accessories and you're set.

White Button Up Blouse - can be worn with jeans or a skirt. Add a necklace or a scarf and you're set.

Motorcycle Jacket - I wear my leather moto jacket with jeans and with my skirts and dresses. If a biker jacket isn't you, choose a more simple leather or faux leather jacket. If you select a style with few embellishments and a flattering shape, it will last for years.

Cashmere Tee - I wear my lightweight cashmere tee alone and layered with a shirt. I throw it on with jeans on the weekend and with a skirt for work. The lightweight cashmere is warm but not too hot for layering.

Simple Women's Cut T-shirt - A simple t-shirt is so versatile. A women's cut is more flattering for women (petite to plus) and isn't boxy. I love my gray t-shirts. I have quite a few but any other neutral would do (white, black, ivory, tan). I usually snag mine at Old Navy or Target. I think paying a ton for a t-shirt is crazy.

Black A-Line Dress - Most lists say that you should buy a black sheath dress. I disagree. An a-line dress is flattering on all body types and it's more forgiving when you gain or lose a few pounds. If the fit is good you won't even need Spanx (bonus). I'm a pear shape (I'm sure you've noticed) and an a-line dress looks better on my shape than a sheath. My sister is tall and lean and proportional. She looks great in both.

Black Ankle Boots - They go with everything! Pants, skirts, dresses, casual or a bit dressy. I wear mine constantly. They work for more than half the year.

"Nude" Flats (or Heels) - I have both nude flats and nude heels. If you want something in between, go for a mid or kitten heel. They elongate your legs and will work with every outfit you own. Remember, nude is not universal. You'll want to try on your "nude" flats or pumps to make sure they work with your skin tone. My friends with darker skin tones will want to gravitate toward a tan or brown shoe.

Jeans (Dark Wash) - A great fitting pair of jeans (skinny or straight leg) can be dressed up or down depending on the day. I own both skinny and straight leg jeans. There are lots of brands and they all have a different fit. I love NYDJ jeans. They work for my pear shape and come in tons of styles and colors. You can always find them on sale for great prices at places like Nordstrom Rack, 6pm.com, and Amazon.com.

I'll expand on styling these basics over the next few weeks.

I'm Obsessed Thank You Very Much - Lace-Up Sandals

My obsession with lace-up sandals started last spring. I think it might be full on ridiculous now. I'm kicking myself for missing a pair of black lace-up lower heel sandals that Zara had on their site. Now they are gone. Last spring I was in search of a lower heel pair and found these at Nordstrom Rack. Now that the weather is warm, they have become staple.

Recently I spotted a black pair and I might have squealed with glee. Until I realized that they were Jimmy Choos and cost,$995! They are on my lust list but I definitely won't be buying them (below, bottom middle).

Clockwise from Top Left  Aldo / DV by Dolce Vita / Tahari / Zara / Sole Society / Jimmy Choo / Candies via Kohl's / MIA

It was hard to decide which ones to include. I loved so many. These choices are a good balance of color and neutral, with high, low and mid heels.  Are you obsessed too?

Twelve-thirty

Today I needed something to boost my mood. Two years ago today, my Dad passed away. I miss him every day.

I picked an outfit that had some fun elements. A girl can't go wrong with a swingy skirt, a colorful flower and a big cocktail ring. Thanks to my Honey for making me laugh while she was shooting these pictures. She's the best.

Blazer - thrifted, Cashmere T - Liz Claiborne, Skirt - thrifted, Boots - Torrid,
Belt - Lane Bryant, Tights - Avenue, Flower - Nordstrom Rack, Bracelets - gift and Kohls



In the interest of full disclosure, these boots were not on my original list.  I forgot to add a pair of dressy boots or shoes to my 30 for 30. When I got dressed for our dessert cruise, my biker like boots wouldn't cut it.  I decided to swap out a tank top that I hadn't worn for these boots.