Reader Question - 80's Dance Party

First, I love your blog. It rocks. I'm going to an 80's dance party in a couple weeks. Just found out about it today. And I'm totally clueless about what to wear. I don't want to be too far out there but I still want to participate in the 80's dress code. I'm a size 24. If you have any suggestions I would love to hear them. Thank so much for your help.
-Jenni

Jenni -
First let me say, love the idea of the 80's dance party. Then again, I love any theme. I think it stems from my sorority days when we had all sorts of theme party/functions. They combined my two favorite things - shopping and partying!

To get my inspiration going I googled 80s Fashion and let me tell you there are some "jems" out there. Here are some that caught my eye!

I know you said that you don't want to be too far out there, but why not? It is the 80s after all - however, to tone it down just pick 3 or 4 items to incorporate into your outfit.

When looking around is actually downright scary how many items are currently available that definitely have an 80s influence. Here are just a few (also, all of the items shown below are available in your size):

1/ Lance Flex Point Patent Pump in Fucshia - Payless, $22.99 (after the paty pair these heels with jeans and simple top for the perfect pop of color!)

2/ Sweatshirt - Walmart, $7 (cut off the neckline, bottom band and cuffs for a slouchy 80s feel and after the party toss on with you fav PJ pants for bummin' around the house)

3/ Tank - Avenue, $9.90 (tanks - the perfect layering piece!)

4/ Denim Skirt - Lane Bryant, $44.50 (super cute with boots or sandals come warm weather and you probably already have one in your closet!)

5/ Leesa Metallic Bangle - Forever 21, $4.80 (pile on the chunky bracelets! The brighter the colors the better!)

6/ Crinkle Patent Peep Toes - Old Navy, $34.50 (again after the party these will be super cute with a black dress or a navy/white nautical outfit!)

7/ Leg Warmers - Torrid, $10 (it is a dance party afterall - why not get a little "Fame-d" out!)

8/ Metal/Poly Bracelet Set - Forever 21, $4.80 (ahhh, jellie bracelets! I had so many of these back in the day it wasn't even funny!)

9/ Splash Color Tights - We Love Colors, $12 (with the wide variety of colored tights available at Target and the likes this should be an easy item to find!)

10/ Pyramid Facet Bracelet - Forever 21, $5.80

Other ideas - run to Goodwill and buy a blazer with the biggest shoulder pads you can find! Sport a polo that you already have in your closet and pop the collar! Borrow a pair of white slouch socks from a Hooters Waitress! The more purple and blue eyeshadow the better! The brighter the colors the better and the more of them the better! Stock up on a new can of Rave Hairspray! Get a pair of knock-off Wayfarer Sunglasses (extra points for finding a sweet pair of Rubber Sunglasses)! Lastly, have fun!

In closing, here is an "80s" pic of me! It was actually a White Trash Prom themed party, but this 80s bridemaid's dress did the trick. Quite possibly the best $10 I have ever spent at a Goodwill - just check out the pearl strans across the heart opening on the back.

Have fun, Jenni!

Daily Outfit 01/30/09 & other fun Stuff

Since we are celebrating my b-day at work with the department going out to lunch I thought I should wear my party skirt and 30th B-day Fur!

Black Tee - Walmart, $8

Black Cardi - NY & Co, sale + coupon for $14

Skirt - Target (you can't really tell in this pic, but it has sparkly gold at the bottom - that's what makes it a party skirt!), clearance for $13

Belt - mark., $6

Vintage Fur Stole - gift from the awesome Audi

Black Tights - ?

Booties - Kmart Online, $28

Speaking of the booties - I never would have thought I would wear them with a skirt. But I saw these on Kmart's site (after seeing them on The Cheap Chica's Blog) and loved the red soles. After watching countless of hours of Sex and the City while being at home sick the past couple of days I decided to channel my inner-Carrie and give the whole skirt/booties look a go.

So today I am wearing these:

and blowing my nose on these!

(Yes, I have a special case for my pretty tissues! It was a gift from my mom as well as the tissues!)

Now for the Fun Stuff - you ladies never cease to amaze me! All of the appetizer advice and recipes yesterday was truly amazing! It makes me want to make/buy and try everything! I teased yesterday that I might just reward you for good ideas, and I am staying true to that. I typed in everyone's names over at Random.org and had it randomize the list. The top three, Anna, Meena, and Kari need to email me their addresses since they are the winners. I will be sending them a necklace from my majoring overflowing collection as a little thank you!

As for the rest of you, sorry you didn't win this time, but I plan on doing more giveaways in the future so keep on reading.

Lastly, I love that so many of my "lurkers" became commenters yesterday. I always love "meeting" new people! Thanks again, ladies!

Daily Outfit 01/29/09 & Appetizer Ideas Needed!

I am happy to report I am back to the land of the living today! Today is the first day I have put on makeup since last Friday which I do believe is the longest period I have gone without since 7th grade when I started wearing Clinique Eyeshadow. Thanks so much for all of the sweet well wishes over the past couple of days!

Green Turtleneck - Mejier, on sale for $4
Black/White Sweater - Nine West (Marshalls), $30
Black Short Pants - Dots (perfect for the 12.5" of snow - the 6th largest snow fall ever in Indy), $18
Scarf - Coach Outlet, $30
Black Boots - Lane Bryant Outlet, on sale for $43

Detail of Scarf:

Now, ladies, I need your help! With being so sick this past weekend my prep time for my big b-day weekend has been drastically shortened! On Saturday we are having a Pre-Bar Crawl Party at our place for my family and friends. I am planning on having lots of appetizers for it along with some food that will still be good for the Post-Party that will probably take place, as well. I haven't been able to think and plan out what I want to make or buy at Sam's yet.

So, give me ideas for awesome appetizers to have (the easier they are the better too!). If you really wow me there might even be something in it for ya!

Reader Question - Prices

Just out of curiosity, how do you keep track of how much you spent on each piece? I can always remember when I got a great deal on something, but there's not way I can remember exactly what I paid for everything in my closet. Do you keep a journal or a list?
-with.much.love

Well, WML, you know how some people can hear a song once and then remember the lyrics and sing-a-long from there on out? That is me and prices. For some reason I have a brain built to remember ridiculous stuff such as the prices I pay for stuff. Granted, occasionally, I will be uncertain and go back on the blog and double check, but those are few and far in between. I thought about starting a list once when I first started the blog, but I was scared at the idea of having an itemized list of just how much I have spent on clothes and shoes!!

Thanks for the question!

Five Glamour Essentials Under $50

Last week I ordered a few things from Amazon and decided to pick up a copy of Style A to Zoe by Rachel Zoe. I haven't had a chance to read it but I did flip through and look at the pictures. While doing so, a sidebar titled "Five Glamour Essentials Under $50" caught my eye.

Rachel's picks for glamour essentials under $50 are (in her words):
1/ Red Lipstick
2/ Black eyeliner (always with mascara)
3/ Great heels - the higher the better
4/ Faux fur shrug - even second-hand
5/ Metallic Clutch

Here are my glamorous suggestions:

Rachel Zoe's 5 Under $50 - by dddgirl79 on Polyvore.com

Top Row (L - R):
Jewel Flap Reptile Clutch - Forever 21, $16.80
MAC Lipstick in Lady Danger - MAC, $14
Jet Set Waterproof Eye Liner by Smashbox - Sephora, $22
daisy fuentes® Faux-Snakeskin Clutch - Kohl's, on sale for $21.60

Middle Row (L-R):
Vassie Snip-Toe Pumps - Target, $29.99
Nine West Olavera Sandal - Endless, $44.65


Bottom Row (L-R):
Faux Fur Jacket - HSN, on clearance for $39.93
Faux Fur Cape w/ Rhinestone Closures - HSN, on clearance for $29.90
Wool-Blend Capelet with Faux Fur - HSN, on clearance for $49.90

Reader Question - Quality at Discount Stores

Hi All! I haven't fallen off the face of the blogosphere nor did I plan to take a break for a few days, but I have been really sick (stomach virus - yuck!) and staying at home in my comfies. I haven't put on makeup since Friday - this might be a new record! I am hopeful to be back to daily outfit posting tomorrow, but in the meantime thought I would tackle a reader question I got a while back (I have a few others I will work on in the near future also).

Hi Kimberly! First let me tell you I absolutely love your blog! I am one of those ppl who is just clueless when it comes to putting together an outfit. I tend to stick to the 'safe' outfits...black slacks, monochromatic top. But since I discovered your blog (last week Friday to be exact..lol!) I've been loving all the outfits you put together! My question is really this....I see you buy some of your pieces from places like Target and Walmart. I've always thought (and been told) that these places would have lower quality materials...is this true? What is your view on this? And is there anything in particular you look for when shopping at Target and Walmart? Don't know if this question's been asked before on your blog (may not have gotten that far back yet!) and if it has, feel free to direct me to the correct post. I look forward to your response! Thanks, DT

DT, Welcome to Fab Finds Under $50 and thanks for the question.

There is the adage that you get what you pay for and with most things that is true. Clothes aren't exempt, however, I can say that most of the discount store clothes that I buy are truly good quality, especially considering their price. When I shop at these stores I make sure to give the clothes a "look-over" to make sure the seams are stitched straight, the buttons seem secure, there aren't any holes in the seams, loose threads, etc. As for the quality of the material - I am sure a Walmart tee is lower quality than a Dolce & Gabanna tee, but for the extreme price difference it isn't worth it to me to find out. I have bought mid-price range tees before (Banana Republic, Armani Exchange) and I have had material ball up and seams wear apart in the wash just as often as my "cheap tees". To be honest, I have been pleasantly surprised by the quality of some of the items I have purchased, especially from Target (my favorite black sheath from there I have worn a million times, laundered a million times and it still looks perfect and the lining is still in great shape condition).

Also, I care for my clothes nicely (if I do say so myself). I wash according to the tag instructions, turn items inside out, use mesh laundry bags as needed, hang to dry, dry clean, etc. I think a little bit of time and effort goes a long way in making your clothes last longer no matter where you purchased them at.

Honestly, I tire of my clothes very quickly also (if I like a sweater longer than two winters it is truly an anomaly). With this I don't mind giving in to my Quantity Over Quality Drive when shopping. Quality over Quantity does come into play in regards to my purses and some accessories (new scarves, jewelry, etc.) though (a girl has to have some expensive habits!).

I hope this answers all of your questions, DT. Feel free to send me more!

*Kimberly

The Winner is . . .

MILLY!!!

Ladies, thank you so much for participating in my 30th Birthday Outfit Polyvore Challenge. All of the outfits are truly fab (click here to see them all). Like I said before, I thought this would make things easier in deciding what to wear this coming weekend, but I think it has done just the opposite! I have so many ideas swirling around in my head. One thing though, my shopping time has been cut short. I had planned on shopping this weekend for my b-day outfit, but I am unfortunately very sick and haven't left the house all weekend (food poisoning or that nasty stomach virus that is going around - yuck!).

Thanks again for participating!

Milly, email me your address and the Vera Bradley Cosmetic Case and goodies will be on their way!

A.P.B. & Reminder

First, just a quick reminder that today is the last day to submit your Polyvore Creation for my 30th B-day outfit. Click here to read all the specifics and to see a picture of the Brand New Vera Bradley Cosmetic Case that you can win!

Also, dear readers, I need your help. I am putting an A.P.B. out on this necklace from H&M. It is featured in this month's People Style Watch. My local H&M doesn't have it in stock yet and unfortunately, I don't get to H&M often to stalk it for when it does come in. So, if you are out and about and happen to see it at your H&M, leave a comment or shoot me an email so I can run to my local H&M and see if they have it in yet. Thanks in advance!

P.S. Part of me thinks this necklace is huge and tacky, but another part of me loves it and can't wait to wear it with a white shirt and jeans for a fun evening out. Since it is only $20 the part of me that loves it is totally winning out!

Daily Outfit - 01/23/09

Something about this outfit made me feel like I should put on my new hat from H&M (which I took off right after snapping the pic since it is going to be in the 40s again today!)! All I can say is truly TGIF - this has been a week that I don't care to duplicate anytime soon!

Also, I feel like this shirt looks like a big tent in the picture and while it is long and voluminous it has a cinched-in empire waist that gets kind of lost in the picture.

White Shirt - Old Navy, clearance for $7
Black Cardi with Pattern at Shoulders - Walmart (some brand they only carried online for a while), clearance for $11
Pants - JC Penney, on sale for $22
Long Pearls w/ Ribbon Tie - originally a belt from Target, $? (I bought this probably 7-8 years ago)
Red Heels - Nine West, super-duper sale for $22
Red Rose Ring - Gifty from Ally
Hat - H&M, clearance for $2.50

Detail of Pants Pattern (and yep, that is my steering wheel in the top left corner - a girl has to multitask!):

Have a great weekend, everyone! If you happen to need something at Victoria's Secret here is a coupon for 20% off!

Reader Question - Tights with Dresses

Okay, so....I have to say..I love your site..Reading this post today [11/15/09] gives me hope about a question I've had all morning! I live in NYC, and I'm going to a snazzy restaurant with a guy I met fairly recently, and I'm crazy about him. I totally want to wear a dress to dinner because I always feel a little prettier and put together in one..But it's so cold. Should I assume that you think I should do it anyway? Should I wear tights or is that a bad idea? I just KNOW you have the right answer...I would love to hear what you think if you don't mind...:)Again, totally love the site...

-Sweet Torts




Tights! - by dddgirl79 on Polyvore.com

Well, Sweet Torts, first off love your Blogger Name. It cracks me up and seems very fitting!

Now for the question at hand. I adore tights with dresses and skirts, and I am so glad they are super in style right now! Just look at the ladies above - they have paired a ton of varying dresses with opaque tights for a variety of different looks, including fancy evening looks. I was actually in NYC back in October and wore black tights with dresses two of the three nights we went out.

I especially like really dark, opaque black tights with jewel-tone dresses and a fabulous shoe. The key to this look is making sure you have a "substantial" shoe on. You need to go with a platform, chunkier heel, and/or bootie type shoe vs. a simple pump. Here are a few styles (all from Nine West and all on sale!) that would be great with a dress and tights.



Nine West - by dddgirl79 on Polyvore.com

Since it is so cold out right now layer two pairs of black tights - which will be extra warm and provide an extra dark, opaque look. It usually works best if you layer two pairs of the same brand, but can be done with differing brands, as well.
Here is a link to some other great tips on "How to Wear Tights".

I hope this was helpful and enjoy your date - it sounds like fun!

*Kimberly

Shoes - Top Row (Left - Right):
Lovenyc - $49.99
Lahdidah - $49.99
Hamptonesk - $29.99

Bottom Row (Left - Right):
Satay - $29.99
Ginga, Boutique 9 - $39.99
Antonela - $49.99

Daily Outfit - 01/22/09

Last night while thinking about what to wear today I originally thought I would wear my new fur stole from Audi with something. However, then the weather man said it was going to be in the lower 40s (warmest day in 17 days!), and I felt a twinge of spring fever. Since it will be back in the 20s by Saturday I opted to go with lighter layers today and save the fur for another day.

Striped Shirt - Old Navy, clearance + promo codes for $6
Boat Skirt - Target, clearance for $10 (click here for a close up of the picture in the inserts)
Navy Belt - Kohl's, clearance for $2.60 (marked down from $26!)
Brooch - Ann Taylor Loft, super clearance + coupon for $3 (originally $39)
Navy Tights - Target, $5
Brown Boots - Target, $37

The brooch is slightly dressy for the outfit, but all of the colors are so perfect for the skirt. So, I figured why not!

Daily Outfit - 01/21/09

I love my new skirt! I have been looking for a simple black skirt for a while now, so when I saw this one online at Old Navy on super clearance (plus promo codes) for $6.75 I just had to get it! This picture doesn't do it justice - it is high waisted and the wide waist band is satin, it has cute pleats and pockets!

Also, when I was at H&M last evening and saw this big, pretty red flower I just had to pull a Heidi and buy it!

Black L/S Tee - Walmart, $8
Jacket - NY & Co, w/ coupon for $40
Skirt - Old Navy, woo-hoo $6.75!
Tights - Target, $5
Deep Red Heels - Nine West, super clearance for $23
Necklace - JC Penney, super clearance for $6
Flower - H&M, $5

Also, I totally plan on seeing Confessions of a Shopaholic when it comes out in February since I read the books in years past, Isla is adorable and of course the over-the-top fashion. However, when I saw this magazine ad in the lastet Us Weekly it made me want to see it even more. Check out her usage of belts!! A girl after my own heart!

And since I was playing around on the computer while watching all of the inaugaration coverage and watching the concert that aired on HBO on Sunday night I decided to make my own little Movie Poster! Ha!

B-day Outfit Challenge & Giveaway!

Just a reminder that this Friday is the final day to submit your entry for the B-day Bar Crawl Outfit Polyvore Challenge. The prize is a brand new Vera Bradley Cosmetic Case filled with goodies. Click here to read all the details.

So many great looks have been submitted already. I thought this would help me decide what to wear, but geez, I have so many ideas now! Perhaps, I could change into a different outfit for every bar we go to! Ha! After all it is my birthday and I can be a diva if I want to! :-)

Also, I am a lucky, lucky lady. I have already started getting b-day gifties in the mail. Click here to see some of the awesome stuff I have received.

Daily Outfit - 01/20/09

I don't really feel like myself in this outfit today! I was tempted to leave the shirt untucked with a belt over it, but these pants have some cute sailor button detailing on the front that I decided to show off. Oh well, it is good for me to get out of my box. :-)

Plaid Shirt - Ann Taylor Loft, super-duper clearance + coupon for $6
Black/White Cardi - Lane Bryant, clearance for $6
Pants - Avenue, with promo code for $15
Purple Suede Heels - Nine West from endless.com, $55
Purple/Black Brooch - Ann Taylor Loft, super-duper clearance + coupon for $4

Pattern Detail & Brooch:

It's Monday Gossip Girl Day!

I have a love/hate relationship with Mondays. I hate that I have to get up early, go to work and all the jazz, but I love them because when I make it through the day I am rewarded with 2 1/2 hours of girly TV (Gossip Girl, One Tree Hill and They City).

A couple of weeks ago I did a tribute to The City style, and today I am honoring the pretty and playful plaids as shown on Gossip Girl last Monday.

These girls are super bitchy, but I have to give them props for always having ridiculously matching but great clothes!

GG Plaid by dddgirl79

1/ Plaid Headband - Delia's, on sale for $3.99
2/ Hooded Plaid Wool Toggle Coat - Forever 21, $47.80
3/ Skating Coat - Target, $49.99
4/ Plaid Cotton Jacket - Forever 21, $34.80
5/ Dotty Tweed Newsboy - Anthropologie, $38 (so this isn't exactly plaid, but it is too friggin' cute!)
6/ Plaid Hat with Leather Band - Etsy, $34
7/ Gingham Fedora - Forever 21, $10.80
8/ Plaid Scarf w/ Fringe - HSN, on clearance for $19.90
9/ Houndstooth Long Coat - Lane Bryant, $68.85 (okay, so this isn't a fab find under $50, but this coat is normally $230 - what an awesome deal!)

Daily Outfit - 01/19/09

A bit of Halloween in January?! I would have normally never paired an orange blazer with black before, however, the necklace I bought at Ann Taylor Loft over the weekend went perfectly. I figured why not! Plus, I have owned this blazer over a year and only worn it once - it is time to better utilize the items I own!

Black Dress - Target, clearance for $12.50 (same one that I wore last Monday!)
(Unseen Layer due to the windchill still being below zero) Black Tissue L/S Tee - Target, clearance for $7
Orange Blazer - Jones New York (via consignment store), on sale for $13
Necklace - Ann Taylor Loft, super-duper clearance + coupon for $5.93 (originally $59!)
Black Tights - Target, $5
Black Belt - NY & Co, on sale for $10
Black Mary Janes - Target, $30

Close-up of necklace - you can't really tell from the picture, but the center stone matches the color of my jacket perfectly!

FAB FINDS!!!

My outfit was lacking today - I just threw on a l/s tee and cardi since I was going to be bundled up under my coat. So, no need for a picture of that!

However, I have to share my super-duper Fab Finds of the weekend!

Last night one of my favorite chicas over on Flickr posted a ton of great deals that she had purchased at Ann Taylor Loft. In the past I never really shopped at Loft because it wasn't very convenient, but I must make it habit to go more often now that there are better locations that have opened near by.

I went this morning and they were offering an addition 25% off of their clearance. Also, I had a 20% off coupon that I had come across before the holidays in a magazine. It was awesome!



I got:
A pair of plaid pants
Plaid Shirt
Gray Cardi
Red Beret
Gloves
Necklace
5 Brooches (only 4 pictured, because I stopped by my mom's and gave her one)
Little leather journal
Two Clutches (only one pictured, because I gave one to my mom also)

Original Retail would have been $583 and I only spent $62!!!

Also, last evening I decided to check out Old Navy online because they had emailed me notifying me they were offering an extra 50% off of their clearance items.

I got all of this for $61.75 and originally it would have been $264.50!

Items Purchased:
Thermal Henley for Dave
Fun New Spring Scarf (not on clearance)
Dress
Stripped L/S Tee
High Waisted Skirt
2 Ruffle Neck Cardis (one for me and one for my mom)
2 tank tops - one navy & one grey
Floral Satin Tank (Milly, I bought this one because I couldn't find the one you picked out for my "b-day outfit", but I thought it was so pretty!)
And not pictured is a Charmeuse Swing Top in grey

I used Promo Codes EXTRA50 to save the 50% off of clearance (good through Monday, I believe) and also SAVENOW for an extra 10% off! Gotta love Old Navy for letting you use multiple promo codes.

Oh yeah, I also ordered through my Ebates account and will get a 3% rebate on this purchase at the end of the quarter. Have I mentioned how awesome Ebates is lately? It is totally free and you get money back (rebates) for the items you order from over 1,000 online retailers. If you haven't already, you must sign up!!! Click here for more details!

Fashion Inspiration - Grandma Judy

My Grandma Judy taught me a lot about fashion and always looking your best. She always dressed with flair and was well put together. She was the queen of accessories (some of which I am fortunate to have now - the "Grandma Judy Collection") and wore bright red lipstick better than anyone I know. I can remember spending countless hours at Fashion Shop (a local TJ Maxx type place that has since closed down) while we scoured the racks looking for the perfect outfit at an even better price (she didn't believe in separates - you always had to buy a bottom to go with the shirt you were thinking of buying, etc. which still to this day don't understand, but back in the day it was all about "outfits"). And she even embraced my search for a black poet's blouse so I could be a hottie at a middle school dance, and once we finally found it after looking in more stores than I care to remember she happily paid for it.

Unfortunately, I lost my Grandma Judy three years ago today. She had a stroke the day after her 80th birthday (she wore gold tennis shoes to the hospital - I told you she had flair!) and passed four days later. Not a day goes by that I don't think of her and smile at all of the fun we had together and fond memories I have because of her.

The many looks of Grandma Judy 1948 - early 1970s

I love ya, Grandma! I miss ya, Grandma! And I thank you, Grandma!

Daily Outfit - 01/16/09

I did it - I chose to dress more for function and comfort than fashion today. When I woke up and heard that it was the coldest day since 1977 (so, it is officially the coldest day of my life!) I knew that warm fuzzy layers were key. Also, it is casual Friday which isn't something that I usually partake in, but today I am all about it!

Red Turtleneck - Walmart, $3
Black Sweater - Macys, on sale + coupon for $15
Plaid Scarf - Thrift, $1
Dark Charcoal Trouser Jeans - JC Penney, on sale for $25
Black Boots of Warmness - Emu, Christmas Gift 2007 from Aunt & Uncle

Stay warm everyone!

Daily Outfit - 01/15/09

Dave looked at me this morning and said, "Babe, I think you need to get some pants for days like this" (temps below zero and windchill of about -22). I originally thought about pants, but to be honest, I can layer up a dress to be way warmer than pants.

Items seen:
Stripped T-neck - Walmart, $7
Black Sheath Dress - Target, clearance for $15
Cardi - NY & Co, sale + promo code for $12
Little Boy's Tie - Thrifted, 20 cents!
Awesome Pin of Fun - Me fren Megan!
Black Boots - LB, $43
2 pairs of black tights - Target

I have on a couple more layers also that can't be seen, and since I walked into an office that is only 61 degrees so far I am grateful I put them on!

Close up of the fun patterns and awesome pin of fun:

Also, some more pics from my drive to work today which was only about 45 minutes today!

Daily Outfit - 01/14/09 & Coupons!

I got two of the three pairs of shoes that I ordered from Nine West's super sale on Friday last evening. So, of course, I had to wear my new red ones!

When I opened my closet and saw this skirt it seemed perfect. This skirt is one of those that I think is so pretty, but I have only worn twice in the 13 months I have owned it (once to a holiday party and once last February). I paired it with all black last time I wore it and that just seemed too boring. Putting it with a leopard belt and deep red shoes spiced it up a bit.

Black Turtleneck Sweater - Lane Bryant, on sale for $20
Flower Satin Skirt - Target, $25
Leopard Belt - Target, $15
Black Faceted Bead Necklace - Old Navy, on sale + coupon for $5.50
2 pairs of tights - Target, $10
Marc Jacobs Red Ring of Fabulousness - Gift from Miss Matilda
Red Croco Heels - Nine West, on super-duper sale for $21!!!

It took me two hours to drive to work today (on a normal day it only takes 35-40 minutes to go the 15 miles). It decided to start snowing right as rush hour was starting, so it definitely made for slow going. Here are some random pics I took while sitting on the road.



Oops, I promised coupons and then I totally forgot to attached them! Macy's is offering an additional 40% off of fashion clearance, plus click here to get your shopping pass for an additional 15% off.

Also, 20% off your entire purchase at Ulta, click here.

Reader Challenge Reminder!

Reminder that the deadline for the 30th B-day Outfit Polyvore Contest is only 10 days away! I have already received some awesome outfit ideas, but I want to see more!!

Click here to read more and enter!

Daily Outfit - 01/13/09

When I look back over what I wore for the week 99% of the time I have an absolute favorite of the week. I think my favorite of this week already happened yesterday. I loved the combo, especially the dress - how it fit and looked and you all seemed to really like it too. The rest of the week will probably be a let down to all of us. Regardless though, here is another bargain from my weekend shopping - Jumper/Dress by Michael Kors originally $140, on clearance for $17.50!

Black/Cream Turtleneck - Target, $13
Pink L/S Tee - NY & Co, on sale + promo code for $5.60
Dress - Michael Kors from Macy's, super clearance for $17.50!!!
Black Belt - NY & Co, on sale for $14
Black Tights - the other pair from the two pack I bought at Target the other night, $5/pair
Boots - same as yesterday

I didn't have anything with the "exposed zipper" trend, so this worked out well.

Lucky Shopping Manual - T-Shirts!

Here is the second installment of things every woman needs according to The Lucky Shopping Manual - Building and Improving Your Wardrobe Piece by Piece.

This post centers around the most basic item that every gal needs in their closet - the T-shirt!

Per Lucky, you're totally cover if you have . . .

2 Good White Tees


U-Neck T-shirt - Old Navy, on sale for $10
Short Sleeve Tee - Target, on sale for $7


2 Good Black Tees

Crewneck Tee - Kohl's, on sale for $7
Scoop Tee - Avenue, on sale for $10

4 Tanks

(Clockwise from Top Left)
Pleated Shell - Kohl's, on sale for $8
Rib Knit Tank (Womens & Misses) - Old Navy, $10.50
City Shell - NY & Co, $25
Solid Cami - Ann Taylor Loft, $19.50

1 Stripped Tee
1 Henley or Polo

(From Left to Right)
Striped Boatneck Tee - American Eagle, on sale for $19.50
Button Tee - Avenue, $24.95
Puff Sleeve Polo - Old Navy, $15

and since Tees are pretty cheap, add some solid tees in unpredictable colors and fun styles.

(Clockwise from Top Left)
Blouson Peasant Top - Old Navy, $14.50
Scoopneck Tee - Ann Taylor Loft, $24.50
V-neck Tee - Forever 21, $8.80
3-pack Fine Jersey Tees - American Apparel, $39.00
Puff Sleeve Tee - Old Navy, $12.50


From the book:


Next Installment - Tops!

Daily Outfit - 01/12/09

The shopping gods were smiling down on me all weekend. Man, I know all of the extremely low sale prices are a sign of the rough economic times we are facing, but I couldn't help but squeal at some of the deals that I got this weekend.

Paisley Blouse - Jones New York (Macy's) Originally $119, Sale $13.62!
Mustard Yellow L/S Tee - Target (This shirt is sheer all over, so by adding the tee it keeps me warm, but the color just blends in so you can't even tell I have it on), clearance for $7
Black Dress w/ Belt - Target, clearance for $12.50! (This dress has such cute detailing with pleats at the waist and pockets)
Black Tights - part of a two pack from Target, $5/pair
Black Boots - LB Outlet, on sale for $43

Daily Outfit - 01/10/09

I saw and really liked this cardigan at NY & Co when I bought the lilac/white polka dot one, but for some reason was behaving myself that day and only bought the one (along with some other stuff). However, then I regretted not getting it, so I ordered it online along with some more stuff a few days later when LJ left a comment with a promo code for an additional 30%. How can I say no to that! Finally, a week and a half later it was delivered yesterday, so of course I had to wear it today!

Gray Turtleneck - NY & Co, on sale for $10
Light Gray & Bright Lemony Yellow Cardi - NY & Co, on sale + coupon for $12
Jeans - Target, $27
Scarf - H & M, $8
Cute Button - gift from the marvelous Megan (close-up below)
Purple Boots - Shoe Carnival, $30 (I wore these even thought there was no purple in my outfit! First, I thought they went well with the colors in my outfit, second, they are the perfect length for these jeans and lastly, we were headed to Macy's so their 3" heels were more comfy to walk around in then my other 4" heeled boots.)