Shoe Lust: Splurge vs. Steal

This past weekend had me wandering around Back Bay, which naturally meant dropping into some stores and checking out the latest wares... mostly shoes. Naturally I found some shoes and now have a mad case of shoe lust. 

Valentino Studded Wedges via Saks

 Do I even need to say anything about how amazing these wedges are? But... with a $700 price tag they're definitely a splurge and I need some time to save up for them. 

Kate Spade Eryn Flat

On my way to Sunday's Bar Method class, I wandered by the Kate Spade store. Thanks to an email a few weeks ago, I knew how cute the spring line is, so I thought I'd pop to see things up close and personal. While perusing, I noticed that these beauties were on sale. It didn't take more than 30 seconds of walking around to decide that I needed these. And hey, did I mention they were on sale? At a fraction of the Valentino wedges, these definitely seemed like a steal. I can't wait to style these in some upcoming posts.   

Just a little pop of color

A colleague recently asked me if red is my favorite color. Confused, I asked her why she would think that and she responded that I'm always wearing something red. For the record, red is not my favorite color. Purple is. How many purple items do I own? Two. How's that for ironic?

Looking through my outfits lately though, it's clear that I've got an affinity for red. Maybe it's because red is my POWER color. I feel good in red. It's such a "look at me" color. But far be it from me to wear all red and really scream look at me! No, for me, red is more of an accent. A little POP of color to an otherwise neutral palate. 


Take today's outfit. A simple black and white dress. Nothing extraordinary about it. A simple bow at the neckline. All business in the front. But in the back?

Dress - Shabby Apple

Fishnet stockings - Target

Suede pumps - Urban Outfitters

necklace (used as a bracelet) - Forever XXI

Sunnies - Kate Spade

Lipstick - "Truly Red" Laura Mercier  

In the back - BAM. All party. Just a little accent to an otherwise neutral palate.

Kate Spade Sample Sale

It's that time again! Today only, Kate Spade is having another sample sale with items up to 75% off, so now's the time to get your hands on some fabulous fall accessories. 

Happy Shopping!

 

The Power of Pink

Do you have that ONE piece of clothing - or outfit - that makes you feel unstoppable when you wear it? This skirt is IT for me. I LOVE everything about this skirt - the fit, the feel, the deep shade of fuschia pink. 

 But the thing I love most about this skirt is its versatility. I can wear this skirt with almost anything, and it makes whatever I pair it with look that much better. Many of you met me at the Blogger Event wearing this skirt. I usually wear this skirt when I'm meeting with a client (or meeting a potential client for the first time.) This is my make-a-good-first-impression-skirt. 

 As much as I wear this skirt, it has never been captured on film and posted here. Well friends, that's about to change. I guarantee you that you're going to see this skirt on this blog - a LOT! It's my mission moving forward to think about what else I can pair this skirt with in my closet. I hope you don't mind seeing this skirt around this ol' blog a bit more. 

 Skirt - Kate Spade (Sample Sale!)

Top - Ann Taylor

Shoes - Tahari

Ring - Kate Spade

Bracelets - Forever XXI (I think)

Pearl Earrings - Gilt Group

Celebrating Love

This past weekend Stephen and I were in mid-coast Maine to celebrate another wedding. It's hard to believe that we're almost done with this wedding season, but we've now attended 3 of the 4 weddings already. 

Each wedding we attend is special because it reflects the couple, but this was, by far, one of my favorite weddings ever. I could see a lot of Stephen and me in this wedding, and Stephen must have too, because he thought the ceremony was perfect. 

Oh, and I forgot the mention that the bride made her own wedding dress. MADE. FROM HAND. It was, in one word, stunning. Although I don't think there's a word that captures just how amazing this dress was. 

Top - Ann Taylor

Shorts - Swapped

Shoes - Via Spiga

Ring, Necklace and Sunnies - Kate Spade

 

I wore this outfit to go shop in the town square. I think red is quickly becoming my go-to color because I snagged two pairs of red shorts this summer. I scored these shorts at the recent swap uncapped event, and I'm in love with them. I actually took this outfit to the wedding and changed into at the reception. 

And just a little something to make your Monday better. You're welcome. Have a fabulous day!
 

Banks of the Red Cedar

 

"On the banks of the Red Cedar, there's a school that's known to all" 

This weekend Stephen and I attended our second wedding of the season. This wedding was special for us for a number of reasons. Most important is the couple and Stephen being a groomsman in his school friend's wedding. The other reason is that they exchanged vows at the Michigan State Chapel, the alma mater of 99% of the wedding party. 

To celebrate the MSU wedding, I donned my emerald green Kate Spade dress. I thought since I was on the campus wearing my green, that it only made sense to take photos along the banks of the Red Cedar. Plus, I didn't know that the school was actually on the banks of the river.

I have to say that I really love this dress. I'm a huge fan of Kate Spade because her clothing is classic, but has a really fun twist. This dress has the bow detail that's just off center, which keeps it from looking hokey and young. I could have also titled this post the Kate Spade post, because my shoes are also Kate Spade. They also have a fun bow detail at the toe and ribbon threaded through the gold chain.

Dress - Kate Spade

Shoes - Kate Spade

Earrings - Forever XXI

Bracelet - Actually a necklace, forgotten where I purchased

 

Blush and Black

This weekend I played tour guide for my friend Kelly, and the heat was on! I wanted needed something cute and cool to walk around the city, and this outfit did the trick. I think this skirt is pretty short, so normally I only wear it during the winter with tights, but I thought I'd be a little more daring and show some skin. Plus, the whole heat thing - no tights today, thankyouverymuch! I definitely stayed cool but, um... I didn't anticipate the breeze! Apologies to whomever was standing behind me today!

 I've also been rocking a red lip lately. I found the perfect shade of red from Laura Mercier, called "Truly Red" and I've been having a lot of fun rocking the shocking hue. 

Did you also notice I got my hair cut! After all was said and done, about 5 inches came off! I have to give credit to my stylist who knew exactly what I was asking for. I swear, that man is a miracle worker! 

Top - Ann Taylor; Skirt - American Apparel; Flats - Coach; Sunnies - Kate Spade

These are the Coach flats I scored when I was in Dallas. They're super cute, and once I break them in, will be super comfortable. Today though, they blistered the heck out of my heels! That's what I get for thinking I'd break in a pair of shoes walking around town!


Did y'all have a wonderful weekend? I hope you stayed cool in this heat, and can't wait to hear about your weekends!

Shake Your Tail feathers

Dress - Apart

Shoes - DSW (I think) a few seasons ago

Bracelet (Can't remember)

Feather earrings - Shabby Apple

Clutch - Kate Spade

Sunnies - Kate Spade

Handsome Mr. - picked up on a blind date with a friend (but that's another story)

 

There is nothing better than wearing a peacock dress and shaking your tail feathers at a wedding. After a beautiful ceremony, we headed to the Stockyards Hotel for some serious dancing. But before we boogied down in the 100-degree heat (seriously, Tejas, could you not have gone easy on me?) I needed to grab some shots of the dress. 

The Mr. was less than enthusiastic about snapping photos of me, but quickly relented when presented with the option of sitting in the car while I set up the tripod. To make things better, he got all "professional" on me, and started running around taking photos, which is where the images of me cracking up come in to play. 

The best part though had to be when we walked up to the hotel and a street vendor offered to take a photo and told me that "Brittany Spears got nothin on you." I don't know if that's a compliment or not, but let's pretend it is, ok? 
 

Feeling Japanese

If I were a mathematician, I'd create an equation that took the cost of an outfit and divided it by the cost per wear. If I were good I'd math, I'd do that equation now. But I'm not, so you have to take my word that the cost per wear of this outfit is pennies. 

This kimono style dress is from Lucky Brands, but I scored it at TJ Maxx  3 years ago. I can't remember if I paid $20 or $30 for this dress, but, regardless of the difference, I'd say I got my money's worth. 

 I'm a huge fan of the bell sleeves. I'm also a huge fan of this dress hiding the half dozen cookies I ate the day before.

Dress - Lucky Brands, Scored at TJ Maxx 3 years ago

Shoes - Kate Spade Outlet last year

Necklace - Merona for Target

Sunglasses - Kate Spade

Earrings - Tilly's

Watch - Citizen

Monday Musings

Kate Spade "Cheers" Necklace via

Cheers! It's a phrase I repeat all too frequently now
One of my clients is from England and we always end our phone calls with this phrase
It's now spreading to my other, non-British clients
I love saying it though because it just feels so cheery
This necklace would turn any frown upside down
I'm definitely adding this to my birthday wish list
I have 6 weeks to go - that's not too early to send the b/f a wish list, right?
On my list (as of right now: 
Those Kate Spade shoes (at the top, natch), iPad2, a gold Citizen watch, and now, this necklace
Of course, always something sparkly for my ears or all important finger
Speaking of, Dallas this weekend
Wedding one of four for the season
Ready to rock my feather dress
Ready to rock a faux tan
Ready to see our friends
No matter how long we're away, it feels like we've never left
There really is no place like home

Feel Good Friday Faves

Don't you think at the end of a week we need something that makes us feel good? Each Friday I want to bring some of my all-time or new faves. So without further ado, here's my inaugural Feel Good Friday Faves: 

Summer Fridays at the office - I talked about it last week, but I love that each Friday over the summer my office closes early at 3 pm. It's so refreshing to have those extra hours added to my weekend. 

Shopping Diet - I'm all about challenges and this will be a fun one. But I thankful for the support of the Boston Fashionista and Miss Neira for saying "heck yeah, honey, you can find good stuff for not a lot of money."

Tripods - I don't think I've been this excited in a long time, but  my tripod shipped, which means I can finally start taking outfit photos again, thus relieving the boyfriend of his duties. 

These shoes - You'd think I'd be devastated to find these shoes just after I declared a shopping diet, but I'm going to buy these as a gift to myself with some of the money I've saved from my diet. Aren't they to die for?

Kate Spade Thea via Zappos

So tell me, what's making you feel good today?

Fashion Skinny

There are a few things that need some skinnying up in my life. My work schedule. My candy habit. And probably most importantly, my shopping habit (or more precisely, the spending that comes with supporting my habit.) The thought dawned on me as I was talking to a colleague. As we discussed some of our favorite brands (Kate Spade for me, Marc by Marc Jacobs for her) she also threw out a comment that her mom made about "expensive brands" and this colleague mentioned that she had to spend to fit in at the office.  

The comment bothered me for multiple reasons, but the biggest is that you don't have to spend a lot to look good. I quickly learned that by reading multiple fashion blogs (FFUF, Frugal Fashionistas, The Look For Less, etc.), so it got me thinking. About change. About going on a diet.

So, I'm making a pledge. For the next 60 days I'm going on a fashion diet. I'm imposing a strict limit of what I'm spending on clothing, accessories, shoes... you name it. I will not be purchasing any article of clothing over $50, shoes included (yikes!). And to make it even better, I'm cutting my monthly budget in half. I'll spare myself the embarrassment you the knowledge of what that is. I'll highlight the purchases I make with the goal of showing that you can be fashionable and savvy without spending a ton of money. To kick it off, here are few pieces I'm eyeing: 

Kimchi Blue Paperbag Skirt - via Urban Outfitters - $49

Deena & Ozzy Summer Skimmer via Urban Outfitters - $30

Striped Jersey Dress via Zara - $40

How rad are those blue skimmers? And that striped jersey dress from Zara is perfect for summer. It also reminds me of another dress, don't ya think?

I've got to say, I'm actually looking forward to this challenge. It should be really interesting, especially as my birthday is the end of July and I'm notorious for purchasing myself some wonderful gifts (we all deserve it, don't we?)

So, dear readers, are there any sites you love for reasonable fashion? I'm open to your recommendations. 

Monday Musings

1957 Balloon Dress by Scasi - Image via here and originally found here

Happy Monday friends! Tons on my mind this morning

This photo found on the Kate Spade Tumblr is so rad
I typically go to Kate Spade for feel good inspiration
Back to another rainy day in the Bean - at least Saturday was sunny and beautiful
Another Harpoon 5 miler race in the book
I love working out and feeling sore in a good way
Off to California tomorrow for work
Two days out of the office
Blessing and a curse simultaneously
How is this weekend Memorial Day Weekend already?
I'm looking forward to Summer Fridays in the office (early out on Fridays? Heck Yes!)
Lots of mini trips around the country this summer for weddings
I can't wait to see our friends get married
I love taking inspiration from their ideas
And I love wedding parties
What's your favorite part of weddings?


 

Today Only - Some Fabulous Shopping Sales

In case you missed it, there are some fabulous sales going on today, and I highly recommend you check them out. 

First up, my go-to shop, Kate Spade is having a sample sale. If you haven't already checked it out... GO NOW! While I'm on a tight shopping budget and can't enjoy the sale now, here are the items I'm crying over: 

Gina Dress

Houndstooth Rose Coat

Another one of my favorite shops for the most beautiful dresses, Apart Style is having a friends and family sale. Today only (ending at 6 pm ET) get 30% off your order with the promo code FAMILY.  Here's what I'm contemplating: 

Beaded Silk Dress

Feathered Day Dress

 Honestly, I think I'm going to snag this feathered dress (budget be damed!) I think it will be perfect to wear while enjoying cocktails somewhere in the city this summer (when summer arrives.) 

And don't forget to hit up each of these sites through ebates. You'll earn cash back on your purchases at both of these stores, so it's like you're getting an even better discount!  Here's the link if you're interested: http://www.ebates.com/rf.do?referrerid=hinnvV4tX%2FeeDORRolitKg%3D%3D


Enjoy the shopping and have a happy hump day!

**Update: I couldn't resist the siren song of sales, and bought the Feathered Day Dress (only $71 after discount and shipping). My question for you readers is: do you think it's appropriate for an afternoon wedding? I'm always nervous about wearing anything with white on a wedding day, but this doesn't scream "stealing the bride's thunder" but would love your thoughts. 

Think Pink

Boston was lucky enough last week to have two days of spring-worthy weather (high 50s - yes please!), and that has me thinking pink in everything I wear. I must admit that I'm not usually a girly girl, and I've never really been one for pink, but this year I'm craving every shade of the pretty color. 

I didn't hesitate to pick up this gorgeous Kate Spade skirt last week during the online sample sale, and literally squealed when it arrived over the weekend. Isn't this skirt just lovely? I'm already dreaming up different tops to mix with this skirt to take me through fall (did I just say fall? go ahead and slap me.) 

Kate Spade Janelle Skirt - buy it here

Ann Taylor Loft

LA Made - buy here

I'm also eyeing this gorgeous Ann Taylor Loft shell - it's perfect for a casual day at work with jeans and nude pumps. This LA Made dress is on sale at Piperlime, so snatch it up while you can. 

So are you thinking pink this spring, or do you, like me (in most cases) avoid the ultra feminine shade?