Wardrobe Capsule Challenge - The Goods

Tomorrow not only kicks off the month of March, but also the Wardrobe Capsule Challenge invented by Jane of The Small Fabric of My Life. Now for a gal like myself that enjoys an excessive amount of clothing and accessory choices this is a bit daunting. However, I gave it some thought and pulled together my 15 items for the next five days.

The items include:
1/ Black Long Sleeve Tee
2/ "Denim" Dress
3/ Black Dress
4/ Black/White Striped Turtleneck
5/ Long Gray Zippy Jacket
6/ Gold Cardigan
7/ Gray Pinstripe Blazer
8/ Black Heels
9/ Jeans
10/ Burgundy Heels

For my five accessories I selected:
1/ Black Belt
2/ Vintage Yves Saint Laurent Scarf
3/ Purple/Blue/Gold Circle Scarf
4/ Dark Red Belt
5/ "Crystal" Necklace

It feels weird for it to be Sunday Evening and already have my outfits mapped out for the whole week. I don't usually plan more than a day or two in advance. I'm looking forward to it though, and I am pleased to challenge myself in this way.

Are you joining in for the challenge?

Accessory Bootcamp - Bright Colored Scarf

Today's installment of Accessory Bootcamp focuses on one of my favorite types of accessories - the scarf!! Reader Tara has had her eye on this scarf from Kohl's, but wants to make sure she can make it work before she buys it.

All I have to say is, Tara, grab this quick!! First, I love the colors and there are so many outfits and ways you can wear it.

First off, I think scarves are a great year-round accessory. This one may be lightweight, but it can still be worn as an eye-catching accessory throughout the year.

Here are a few outfit ideas (you can tell I'm looking forward to spring as the looks I pulled together are more warm weather focused!) and ways to tie the scarf with each look.

Look #1 - Come summer toss this scarf (worn in the "pretzel" knot*) on with a maxi-dress to add some color and pattern.
Shopping Guide for this look - click here

Look #2 - Wear the scarf to work or an evening out by adding it to a LBD (little black dress) and belt it with a bright colored belt.
Shopping Guide for this look - click here

Look #3 - Look super pulled together while running Saturday errands by adding the scarf (worn in the "wrap around"*) to a jeans and hoodie combo
Shopping Guide for this look - click here

Look #4 - Lastly, what better way to add a pop to a simple tee and shorts than by adding the scarf (worn in the "twist"*).

As for as pairing it with other accessories, it's pretty simple:

So, as you can see, Tara, you need to grab this scarf and rock it often!

*For step-by-step picture guides on how to tie a scarf in the ways shown above, check out Down East Basics' Scarf Tying Ideas Guide.

Next Up: Arm Warmers!

Daily Outfit - 02/26/10

With today's outfit inspiration calling for "Pretty in Soft Neutrals" I had a feeling earlier in the week that I wanted to wear this new jacket today. However, then I scored this great belt on Wednesday evening, and I just had to add some color today. And seriously, how great is it that the belt matches my Nine West heels so fantastically?!

On Wednesday I felt the urge to run out to the local Goodwill after work. When I feel urges like that I don't usually deny it, and I was glad I didn't on Wednesday. I ended up finding 5 Target New Stock belts all for a $1 each along with some great glassware for a little home decor DIY I have planned for the weekend. Once again, trust your urges - they are usually right! :-)

Black Tunic Sweater - Dialogue NWT (QVC Brand) from Selective Seconds Consignment Store, $13 (September 2009)
Cream "Leather" Jacket - TJ Maxx, $30 (Feb. 2010)
Briana Jeans - compliments of Maurices*
Belt - Target New Stock @ Goodwill, $1 (Feb. 2010)
Heels - Nine West, clearance for $28 (Dec. 2009)
Hairclip - compliments of Flexi-8**

*Maurices was so kind to send me these jeans. I have been wearing nothing but super dark bootcut jeans for a while now, so its fun to have a pair with some distressing and a more flared leg. Want to save 20% off a purchase from Maurices? Sign up for their mailing list!

**I included a detailed pic of my hair/hairclip today because I just had to share this Flexi-8 hairclip. The inventor, John, was so nice to send me 4 of these in a variety of sizes. Today I am wearing the mini just to hold back my front layer of hair. I'll share more later!

Have a great Friday and weekend, everyone!

March Outfit Inspiration Calendar

Back for another month, here's the Outfit Inspiration Calendar for March! Last month I asked for some ideas for outfits from readers and a couple of those are included below. Unfortunately, I didn't capture the pics as soon as they were submitted and some of the links are no longer valid. Darn, there were some good ones too! Thanks for all of the great ideas, ladies!

For the first work week of March (1st - 5th), I will be participating in the Wardrobe Capsule Challenge created by Jane over at The Small Fabric of My Life. I figured it was a great time to "make the most" of my closet and mix and match up a week's worth of outfits out of only a few pieces. I encourage you to do the same. You can read more about the challenge here.

Monday, 3/8 - Neutrals with a Citrus Pop
Tuesday, 3/9 - Floral & Badass Leather Combo
Wednesday, 3/10 - Belted Animal Print
Thursday, 3/11 - Layer up a Dress
Friday, 3/12 - Tunic and Scarf Combo
Saturday, 3/13 - Gray Knits and Denim

Monday, 3/15 - Printed Cardigan and Skirt Combo
Tuesday, 3/16 - Stripes and Ruffles
Wednesday, 3/17 - Cuffed Pants and a Necklace
Thursday, 3/18 - Color Combo: Gray & Blush Pink
Friday, 3/19 - Plaid/Tweed Jacket and Skinnies
Saturday, 3/20 - Embellished Top, Jacket & Jeans

Monday, 3/22 - Leather & Tweed Combo
Tuesday, 3/23 - Blue & Pinstripes
Wednesday, 3/24 - Blazer over Stripes
Thursday, 3/25 - Cardigan & Florals
Friday, 3/26 - Long Vest & Jeans if you can
Saturday, 3/27 - Belted Trench, Scarf & Jeans

Monday, 3/29 - Denim and/or Ruffle Skirt with Tights
Tuesday, 3/30 - Black Cardigan and Bright Scarf
Wednesday, 3/31 - Vest over a Tunic

Sync up with the Outfit Inspiration Calendar for easy access:

Do you follow the calendar but don't have a blog (or even if you do!)? Join the Fab Finds Under $50 Calendar Inspiration Group on Flickr and share pictures or collages of your inspired looks! It's a great group of gals that share lots sweet words!

This month's looks are from the following:
Reader Submissions, Rachel Zoe, Ruche, DVF F/W2010 Collection, Kate Spade, Kmart, Shop Kim's Blog, Ann Taylor Loft, Forever 21, Banana Republic, and Macy's

Want to check out past month's Outfit Inspiration Calendars? Visit the "Outfit Inspiration Calendars" Page Tab at the top.

Daily Outfit - 02/25/10

Earlier in the week Affordable Scarves tweeted (@affordscarves) about a new scarf they had in stock - the "Glam Rock Necklace Scarf" and I just had to have it. Since my order was delivered yesterday I felt the need to incorporate this scarf into the mix today. I really like the extra texture it gives to the outfit. I ordered a couple of other new styles too, but those will have to wait for another day to make their debut!

Dress - Ross, $17 (Feb. 2010)
Black Blazer - Target, clearance for $15 (2007)
Turquoise Turtleneck - NY & Co, clearance for $10 (Jan. 2010)
Glam Rock Necklace Scarf - Affordable Scarves, $12 (Feb. 2010) (detail pic from Affordable Scarves show in pic above)
Heels - Michael Kors/6pm.com, $55 (Dec. 2010)

Later today the March Outfit Inspiration Calendar will be posted - be sure to check it out!

Accessory Bootcamp - Floral Statement Necklace

It's part #2 time of Accessory Bootcamp focusing on how to wear a large floral statement necklace!

I adore statement necklaces - - NOW! The first time I put one on I felt like people weren't going to be able to notice anything but my necklace. However, the large necklace trend is definitely in and people are use to seeing them so now for some of you, you just need to get use to wearing them!

Statement necklaces are a great piece that can be worn year-round and according to all of the spring issues of Fashion Mags the trend is still going strong!

I think statement necklaces can be worn with everything from casual tees to sweaters and everywhere from drinks out with friends to boardroom meetings.

Since the size of the necklace is so large it is best to keep the focus on it and not your other pieces of jewelry. You can do this by wearing small stud or simple hoop earrings, classic bangle bracelets and your normal rings (if any).

As you can see there are no really tricks with incorporating Statement Necklaces into your wardrobe. It is more about the wearer and feeling comfortable with the large necklace. Next up: Bright Colored Scarf!

Shopping Guide - For item specifics, please click on the links below:

Necklace - Reader Submitted
Work Outfits
Casual Outfits
Jewelry

Daily Outfit - 02/24/10

Today's Outfit Inspiration called for a pattern mix of plaid and polka dots. I really wanted to push the envelope and do a pretty bold mix since I have been inspired by all of the spring magazines showing a lot of mixing. I just didn't have the right components for a work outfit though. So, my plaid and polka dots are pretty subtle, but mixed nonetheless!

Red Dress - Avenue, $30 (currently on sale for $25) (Feb. 2010)
Black Open Front Cardi - Ross, $9 (Feb. 2010)
Plaid Shirt - Ann Taylor Loft, super clearance for $6 (Dec. 2008)
Polka Dot Scarf - Lane Bryant, clearance for $6 (Fall 2009)
Black Wedges - Michael Kors, 6pm.com, super sale for $25 (currently $30) (Feb. 2010)

Have a great day, everyone! It's another gray and snowy day here outside of my window.

Reader Question - Cowboy Boots

I love your blog and taste! Most of all I love your shoes and how you pair them with your outfits.

I just bought a pair of these cowboy boots from Target. I got a crazy good deal on them in the store, I love Target clearance! I love these boots and their fit but I am not sure how to pair them. I am a plus size gal who isn't a fan of dresses and skirts, but I am learning. I am sure that these boots will work great for the So Cal weather that I am so lucky to be living in and I am excited to break them in!

What do you think???
-Jaime

Jamie, I think you scored some great boots! I was gifted a pair of chocolate brown cowboy boots about 4 years ago, and I totally admit I don't wear them enough!

I think cowboy boots can look really cute with skirts and dresses, but I would shy away from them with these boots. Since these boots are shorter and hit mid-calf they can make even the best looking calves seem chunkier. However, the looks pairing these boots with pants are endless. They will work with everything from a casual tee and jeans combo to adding a cool vibe to a pair of crisp white jeans and tunic blouse.

Here are a couple of looks to try (note, all of the clothing items below are available in Plus Sizes):

For details and links:
Set 1 - Click Here
Set 2 - Click Here

Have fun with your new boots!!

Daily Outfit - 02/23/10

I guess I could say that the inspiration for today's outfit is the extremely gloomy and grey weather we have had here for what seems like weeks, but really I just wanted to wear this new jacket!

Last week while ordering the longer grey jacket I spied this cute cropped one on clearance. I must have had a thing for grey knits that day!

Grey Jacket - QVC (Item #A82160), clearance for $20 (Feb. 2010)
Grey/Black Striped Turtlneck - Kohl's, sale for $6.50 (Nov. 2009)
Black Dress - Target, clearance for $12.50 (Jan. 2009)
Scarf - TJ Maxx, clearance for $8 (Aug. 2009)
Heels - Michael Kors/6pm.com, $55 (Dec. 2009)

Accessory Bootcamp: Peacock Feather Earrings

Last Wednesday, I asked for submissions for Accessory Bootcamp. I received great submissions that covered a lot of different ground when it comes to accessories. So here goes Part #1 focusing on how to wear Peacock Earrings!

I admit I have been drawn to feather earrings for a while now. I have never bought a pair because I don't feel they would work with the majority of my wardrobe, but geez they are pretty!

First off, I feel feather earrings work best in warmer weather and for most of us that means Spring and Summer.

I feel the outfits the earrings work best with are outfits that are light, airy and kind of floaty.

Since the feather earrings are such a statement piece, the rest of your jewelry should be kept fairly simple like below.

There are a few ideas for incorporating Peacock Feather Earrings into your wardrobe. Next up: Statement Necklace!

Shopping Guide:

Earrings - ShopRuche
Outfits - Click here for item specifics
Accessories - Click here for item specifics

Daily Outfit - 02/22/10

Oh Monday, I am so not feeling you today! I did manage to grab a bow blose and vest this morning to keep with the Outfit Inspiration Calendar. It was tempting to just through on black pants and a sweater though let me tell you!

Green/White Bow Blouse - Liz Claiborne/TJ Maxx, $20 (purchased with a gift card, Dec. 2009)
Brown Vest - Old Navy/Thrifted, $1.50 (Summer 2008)
Brown Belt - Bitten/Steve & Barry's, $9 (2008)
Brown Cardi - Walmart, $7 (Jan. 2010)
Skirt - Liz Claiborne/TJ Maxx, $25 (purchased with a gift card, Dec. 2009)
Heels - Michael Kors/6pm.com, super sale for $25 (87% off!, Feb. 2010)

I had plans to go shopping and do a mini redo of my bathroom yesterday with a new shower curtain, rugs and towels. However, it was rainy and gloomy and I opted to lay around, watch bad movies and type up blog posts for the upcoming week. So, with that, be sure check back since there will be two posts almost everyday this week! Have a great one, ladies!

Reader Question - Nautical w/o Stripes

I was curious how you would incorporate the current nautical trend without the use of horizontal striped tops?
-MJ

No horizontal striped tops??!!! But I love my striped tops (as you can see here, here, here, here and several more). However, I know they aren't everyone's thing. You can still get in on the Nautical Trend though by incorporating Blue, Red, Yellow and White into outfits, rope and knot detailing, sailor pants, and anchors.

Here is a quick round-up of some items under $50 that incorporate the trend - have fun getting nautical!!

For details and links to the items, click here.

Reader Question - Large Laptop Bags

Good morning Kimberly!

First, a big thank-you: I've always had a great eye for sales (thank you, Mom!), but your website helps me create outfits, look at pieces I would typically pass by, and generally think more outside the box. You're great!!!

My challenge to you: I recently got laptop from work that I am able to take home with me if need be. They don't provide laptop bags, which is alright with me considering they are usually big, black and a little bulky. I need room for a power cord and some file-size folders. I like the shoulder strap or longer handles because it can get heavy. I've looked at some larger tote bags but they are either too expensive, too small (my screen size is about 17") or too thin (need that extra room for the power cord and files). I really like the sleek look of the laptop sleeves (Built NY makes some really cute patterns!), but again, no room for anything but the laptop.

Can you give me some options that,
1. Won't make my husband faint when he looks at the price tag
2. Is not the typical black, bulky beast
3. Has room for laptop, cord and files

Thank you in advance!

Andrea

Andrea, whoa, that's a big laptop! There are so many cute and fashionable laptop bags out there, but the majority of them are made for 15" laptops. I did manage to spy a few cute ones that would be big enough though.

The three bags in the left column are designed to hold laptops and are made of lightweight materials so you won't throw out your back coming and going from work.

Ricardo Beverly Hills Essentials 18" Super Tote - ebags.com, $39.99 (Free Shipping On All Orders over $25 at eBags.com)
17-Inch Laptop Messenger Bag - Amazon, $51.41
CaseCrown Durable Double Memory Foam Thin Case - Amazon, $30.19

A great alternative to an "official" laptop bag would be to get a protective sleeve for your laptop and then carry it in an oversized tote. This will give you plenty of room for extras plus there are some really cute options available.

Large Shopper XL Tote Bag - Amazon, $29.99
Case Logic 17" Laptop Sleeve - ebags.com, $23.99 (Free Shipping On All Orders over $25 at eBags.com)
Croco Bag - Newport News, $34

Daily Outfit - 02/19/10

Today's Outfit Inspiration called for a Boyfriend Blazer and Scarf. When I added this to the calendar I was a little jealous of those that would participate because I had been looking for a Boyfriend Blazer for a while with no luck. I didn't want the basic black that seemed to be offered everywhere. So last week when I spotted this great pinstriped gray one with polka dot turn back cuffs from Kmart I was super excited. Not only did I get to buy a great blazer, but I got to play along with today's calendar inspiration!

I accidentally left my camera's SD card at work yesterday, but was loving this outfit so much I had to snap a quick pic in my office first thing. I just had to share this great blazer!

Boyfriend Blazer - Kmart, on sale for $23 (Feb. 2010)
Blue "3/4 Sleeve Perfect Pleat Tunic Tee" - Avenue, on sale for $10 (Feb. 2010)
"Rainbow Half-Scarf" - Affordable Scarves, on sale for $8 + purchased with a gift certificate! (Jan. 2010)
Jeans - INC/Macy's, on sale for $47 (Jan. 2010)
Booties - Coach (Dec. 2010)

I just have to say Kmart is really turning up the notch on their fashion offerings lately. I don't have a super handy store near by, but everytime I look on line I see something I like. While looking at their recent multipage ad in Lucky Magazine (I think) I honestly thought I was looking at a Dillard's or Macy's ad. Their Spring Lookbook is loaded with great looks - check it out here (some of these are definitely going to be in upcoming Inspiration Calendars). Also, they have been twit picing some pictures of their upcoming Fall Line and there is lots of great looking stuff (follow @kmartdesign for all the news).*

*Please note, I haven't received any promotional offerings from Kmart - I just am really digging their stuff and their Twitter Team, including Christina, have been super nice and supportive of FFUF over the past months.

Thanks, lovely readers, for making it another great week here at Fab Finds Under $50!