May Wish List...

Yay! My birthday month is approaching! All the more reason to wish away! So this month I'm dreaming BIG! Here are some items I'm ready to invest in OR be gifted with :)...

In no particular order...

Kymberly Wedges- Aldo ($110)

I love the ethnic feel of these sandals. They would look great with a casual tribal dress or skinny black trousers and a button up. Pieces that can go any way are the best to stock up on.

Black Chain Handle Studded Circle Cross Body Bag- Topshop ($60) 

With classy punk fashion being on trend for spring this cross-body bag is perfect to add a pop of edge to any look. 

Round Neck Jacket- Zara ($90)

I need this biker jacket. The blush color tone will make it a light and airy piece to throw over a lace dress for a chilly summer night. 

Open Knit Jumper- Zara ($40)

This light sweater is perfectly care free. Amazing. 

Tacking Tiles Swing Blouse- Anthropologie ($178) 

This 70s inspired flowy blouse reminds me of something Rachel Zoe would wear so yes, I'm drooling over it. 

Amplified Stripes Blouse- Anthropologie ($98) 

Mhmm, I'm still in love with stripes. So fresh and easy!

Gold Metal Stretch Tab Skinny Belt- Topshop ($40) 

Fabulous for any look!

Phylicia Hat- Aldo ($20)

Hats are very in for spring/summer. You will look so funky and effortless in this fedora.

Enamel and coral Stretch Ring- Target ($20)

Two very hot colors mixed together in an interesting design. I want to wear this daily.

Ballerina Flats with Bracelet Studs- Zara ($100) These are the perfect flats. I'm convinced. Flirtaciously  cherry red with pyramid studded edge. 

Feather Earrings- Forever 21 ($4)

If they're not in your hair put them on your ears because 70's glamour is here to stay!

All About Accessories...

Everyone knows that accessories can either make or break an outfit (at least we hope everyone knows). Every outfit requires the perfect finishing touches. The important thing is giving yourself plenty of options to choose from. I like to keep my jewelry stock full of key pieces such as: delicate keepsake necklaces, large statement necklaces, simple stud earrings, lots of gold, lots of silver, lots of a mixture of both, neutral colored rings, chains, and diamonds. I do the same with my belts, scarves, hats, sunglasses, bags, etc. Accessories are a great thing to purchase in abundance because they can totally change any outfit. You can wear the same shirt everyday and make it look totally different based on the pieces you put it together with.  Accessories are magic so stock up whenever possible! Here are some accessories I am currently craving. MMMMmmm...Lovely!

Tortoise Watch- Michael Kors- $195

Glasses with Golden Side Piece- Zara- 40

Color Blocked Raffia Hat- Zara- 26

Checkerboard Box Chain Bag- Forever 21- $25

Braided Leatherette Belt- Forever 21- $7

Beaten Triangle Shard Drops- Topshop- $28

Cream Waterspot Snood- Topshop- $32

Textured Domed Studs- Topshop- $20

Wire Wrap Semi-Precious Ring- Topshop- $28

Less Than Subtle Statements...

After a long week of dark rain clouds and zero shopping excursions, I'm needing a bit of a "pick me up". With high hopes of bringing some life and zest to my wardrobe, I'm thinking shiny shoes and leopard accessories. Neither will go unnoticed. 

Neptune Embellished Boots- Topshop- $40 

Lula Glitter Ballet Flats- J.Crew- $135

Bodelaire Ballet Flats- J.Crew- $100

Glitter Ballerina- Zara- $100

Peach Sequined Up Lace Oxfords- Forever 21- $20

If these shoes don't make you feel happy, see a doctor immediately. They're the perfect finishing touch to any spring outfit.

Leopard Ankle Boot- Zara- $140

Leopard Print Leatherette Handbag- Forever 21- $23

Narla Leopard Multi Strap Sandals- Zara- $80 

Sluder Scarf- Aldo- $18

Michael Kors Skinny Leopard Belt with Pyramid Studs- Macy's- $45

Leopard Flap Purse- Topshop- $40

Betsey Johnson Heart Studs- Piperlime- $25

Leopard prints are definitely back ladies. Now I'm not a fan of wearing leopard print dresses or pants but a little pop of cheetah adds some much needed spice to a tame outfit. Worried you may not be able to pull this trend off? Check out the way these stars add a pop of leopard print to their look, and pull some similar pieces from your own closet to make it work. 

Olivia Palermo adds leopard print booties to an otherwise bland outfit. Do the same by putting together an outfit with a very neutral color palette.
Sienna Miller pairs this scarf with basic colors like black and grey. The scarf is what takes this outfit from blah to carefree and fun.
She also shows how to work a leopard print handbag with a bold dress. Try wearing your own leopard purse with a solid bright dress for an outfit that'll be sure to catch eyes.
Olivia pairs her printed belt with a solid black dress for a more classic look. So pull out your LBD and add give it a little spice! :)

Peeping about Pastels

Today was a great day to teach 1st grade. Our classroom was full of excitement and anticipation as it was the 21st day our chicks have been growing in their incubator. It was CHICK day! These adorable little babies, that actually hatched in my hand today, got me all revved up about Easter. After hearing them peep nonstop all day, I'm exhausted, but figured I've got enough energy to do some peeping of my own...

With real life inspiration, I'm thinking pastel polish, springy dresses, and Easter recipes...

Essie- $8

Asymmetrical Floral Dress Rare- Topshop- 90

Dress with cut out design- Zara- $60

Apricot Lace Hem Blouse Tunic- Topshop- $75
Johann Shangri La Dress- Urban Outfitters- $60

I've been browsing Thepioneerwoman.com for some fabulous Easter recipes. I'm trying to choose a delectable side to bring as a dish to pass to our family gathering. I'm thinking green bean casserole! Mmm Mmm...

Just Another Manic Monday...

Spice up your work week wardrobe with some fun, yet professional attire. Here are some ideas for how to work a little more zest into the day to day uniform. When choosing outfits for my work week, I like to mix it up from a super dressy day with a pencil skirt and heels to a hang loose day with dress capris and sandals. Sometimes you're feeling it and sometimes you're not...

Monday- Start the week off fresh with bright colors that say, "It's going to be a good week!"

Apothecary Skirt- Anthropologie- $128 

Cream Lace Flower Tee- TopShop- $70 

Leather Wrap Watch (set of 3)- Urban Outfitters- $48

Alexia Ankle Boots- Vince Camuto- $78

Tuesday- Feel relaxed with a loose tank and some tailored pants. Throw on a blazer or cardigan to make it more professional. 

Pleated Black Trousers- Zara- $40

 SM Luxe Crown Pump- DSW- $70

Pale Blue Print Vest- Topshop- $60

Wednesday- Pick a dress that feels easy and can be paired with some light outerwear. 

Floral Stud Dress by Rare- Topshop- $70

Sunglasses- Forever 21- $6

Vianen Leather Sandal Pumps- Aldo- $70

Tan Leather Embossed Eyelet Skinny Belt- Topshop- $32

Thursday- After being pretty dressy all week, take it down a notch with some relaxed fit trousers and flat sandals.

Broken-in Skimmers- Gap- $50

Ribbons and Lace Top- Forever 21- $16

Cross-Over Flat Sole Sandal- Zara- $50

Woven Hair Multirow Necklace- Topshop- $85

Friday- It's the weekend. Enough said. 

Put a braid in your hair, hang loose and make it work. Your look should say, fun and free! :)

The Soft Pant- Gap- $50

Feather Weight Cardigan- J.Crew- $62

Glitter Ballerina Shoe- Zara- $100

Five Favorite Finds of the Week...

Another week of incredible deals...

1. Tie Dye Tank- Target- $15
2. Guess Wedges- DSW- $32
3. White T-Strap Sandals- Target- $15
4. Vegas Volt- Mac- $15
5. Color-Blocked Dress- Target- $20 

Stormy Night Sentiment...

I just had to capture these gorgeous swirling clouds after a fierce storm. Tonight is the perfect night to cuddle up with a cozy blanket, munch on some popcorn, and do some online shopping. :) Thanks to the torrential downpour and tornado warning, I'm now craving cozy tops, trench coats, and rain boots...

Need some inspiration to look put together on a rainy day? Style icons: Rachel Bilson, Leighton Meester, and Ashley Olsen are keeping cute, no matter the weather! 

April Wish List...

With only ten dollars left in my retail budget this month, this wish lift seems a bit lofty, but dreaming is still fun. I had trouble fitting this list into any type of category or box. I know it seems random but it's just a few pieces that fit my mood. 

These Urban Outfitters tribal earrings give off such a simple elegant vibe. I love how the shape seems earthy yet the gold makes them so classy. The peach Top Shop blazer is such a soft yet fun color and would brighten any outfit,without taking it overboard. I love this Zara suede skirt. It would look fabulous with a tucked in blouse and some laser cut oxfords. The Urban outfitters peasant skirt earned a place on my wish list because of it's easiness. Who wouldn't feel pretty and comfortable wearing that? I see it paired with a striped T and structured blazer or a loose fitting pocket tank and some flat sandals. Next is this glamourous bib necklace from Anthropologie. I love that it has a mixture of gold and silver, which allows it to be work with way more outfits. Lastly these fabulous orange wedges from Zara. The ankle strap is so feminine and will do wonders for the legs. This pop of orange would not go unnoticed. :) 

Top Ten Trends of the Moment...

Here is a list of trends that I am currently 100% on board with...

 

Five Favorite Finds This Week...

Okay so this week has been full of steals that make my heart sing. Starting at the top left my number 1 for the week: black booties from Target... $20. I can hardly find attractive flip flops for that price. Center is my my number 2: A Forever 21 70's inspired dress. I've already worn this dress three times, each time with different shoes, accessories and outerwear. It is a very transitional piece and only cost me 17 dollars, on sale. Number 3: Leather messenger bag from Target. I've been drooling over the gray one for about a month. Last time I was at Target I noticed this even more irresistible shade of muted blush on sale for $27. I'm telling you, I am learning the meaning of "good things happen to those who wait" (especially if you're shopping at the Loft). Next line... number 4: studded white leather belt from J.Crew, on sale for $9. It fits nicely around the waist and will look great with anything. Lastly...number 5: Gap blouse. The one I got is actually more of a creme color, but it is currently wadded up in the dirty clothes, so I figured Gap's website pic would have to do. This blouse is so light and airy, looks great tucked in with a skinny belt and some flare jeans. $10. 

Chic Shorts

It's been over 80 degrees today and I'm dreaming of some flirty shorts. Three styles that are on point for this summer are high-waisted and fancy, patterned prints, and any color of denim. I'm excited about the way shorts are transitioning from their typical connotation with "casual" into more of a dressy affair. Here are my favorite picks... 

Urban Outfitters- $48, Top Shop- $78, Top Shop- $100, Anthropologie- $128
Ann Taylor Loft- $45, Urban Outfitters- $54, Ann Taylor Loft- $45, Top Shop- $65
Anthropologie- $98, Top Shop- $55, Urban Outfitters- $39, Anthropologie- $98

The "Lucca" Couture scallop hem shorts are a "must purchase" for me. I've been searching for a reasonably priced pair with this feminine hem for some time now. Fun fact: These shorts also have a home in Lauren Conrad's closet!

Feel Fabulous in Some Flats...

I have truly been in need of some fun flat sandals for the approaching warm weather. While massive wedges, wood, and sky-high sandals are on trend right now, every girl needs her go to flats to feel comfortable and cute in. These are my favorite picks of the season if you're looking to splurge...

Zara- Jewel and Chain Sandals- $90
Gianni Bini- Bow Sandals- $80
Aldo- Heng Flower Ornament Sandals- $60
Topshop- Mint Tubular Suede Sandals- $75
Topshop- FOX Blue Clean Sandals- $85
Aldo- Bone Flower Sandals- $60

If you work with a tighter budget, here are some picks to help you save and still look fabulous...

Delias- Alesia Cut Out Sandals- $40
Aldo- Bone Jakoba Sandals- $25
Target- Orange/Multi-color Thongs- $23
Aldo- Rothrock Peach T-Strap Sandals- $35
DSW- Rivera Turquoise Sandals- $50
Forever 21- Striped Canvas Sandals Thongs- $14

Nobody knows better than Kim Kardashian how to rock some sky-high heels, but even she knows you need a break. Here are some pictures to inspire some outfits that work with flat sandals...

10 Steps to Wistful Waves

Step 1: Wash your hair.
I use Redken shampoo and conditioner, blonde glam.

Step 2: Put in some shine/ defrizz products.
I use Bumble and Bumble shine therapy or style serum. Work the product through your hair getting the majority of it on your ends (too much product on the roots can cause your hair to appear greasy!)

Step 3:Air-Dry your mane.
I like to sleep on my hair wet since I wake up so early. It cuts out a step in the morning and therefore allows for more beauty sleep. Imperative.

Step 3: Check out your natural wave.
Most of the time I will already have a good wave or kink going. This is a good day and requires less hot iron work and more natural luster.

Step 4: Heat up your curling iron.
I just use a conair 1" barrel. A professional iron is on my wish list but not at the top, since I'm not looking for ringlets.

Step 5: Curl.
Do not use the clamp on your curling iron at all. simply, choose the section you wish to curl and wrap it around the iron and hold. I typically hold 3 to 5 seconds for a loose curl, depending on how wavy or curly I'm wanting it.

Step 6: Take a handful of curls and give them more volume by pushing them up and kind of messing them up with your fingers. 

Step 7: Use a round brush to tease the crown of your head. This just gives you a little more lift in back. I usually do this when I want my curls to be a little more fancy. When I want more of a long, hippy-style curl I cut out this step.  

Step 8: Run a round brush lightly through your curls. We don't want them to be Shirley Temple ringlets. This allows your hair to fall slightly and flow more easily. 

Step 9: Finish it out with a little hairspray if you want some security but don't overdue it...yuck. 

Step 10: Work it! The best part is this hair will be even better the next day or two! 

Khaki Kate Bosworth

With all the bright colors being super on trend for Spring/Summer 2011, a good nude color palette is perfect for a  subtle, yet different statement. Kate Bosworth has rocked khaki on khaki over and over again and shown that you don't have to wear obnoxious florescent colors to be noticed. Here is a look at some of the outfits she has put together to look naturally fabulous...

If you need a break from bold colors choose a nude outfit and feel confident and comfy. Here are some of my favorite pieces in this color palette from Topshop. 

Top Shop Nude Heaven...