Confessions of 2 Shopaholics

Jeans you must buy for Spring 2011

2011-02-07T08:07:00.000-08:00

I read this Go Buy Now:'70s-Style Jeans last week and followed their directions to go out and buy some higher rise, wider leg jeans because I am nothing, if not a complete slave to fashion.

Jean-ious!!! (Sorry for the lame pun, but I am just so excited) I LOVE these trouser style ones from the Gap. They are comfortable, with a little bit of a higher rise. No muffin top! I can't tell you how excited I am. Skinny jeans can be really cute on some people, but not on most people (aka people that aren't skinny). I bought two pairs in the past week. I wore them all weekend and am officially in love.

This is such exciting news that I wanted to blog about it even though I haven't blogged in like a year or something. OK, not quite that long, but almost. Anyway, go out and get some- now!

Lanvin for H&M

2010-11-05T10:20:00.000-07:00

This video is amaaaazing and I want everything in it. Love the yellow dress and all the shoes! C and I might just have to camp out to make sure we get some Lanvin!

Military trend

2010-09-29T08:30:00.000-07:00

Hey Internet!! Long time no see. Sorry for the lack of blogging, for oh, the last 6 or 7 months. I haven't felt like I have had a lot of exciting purchases to share recently, but fall is here and I have been shopping like crazy!

So, the military trend is huge for fall. I love the cargo leggings that are everywhere, but unfortunately they are just not for me. They make my legs look ginormous. I tried the Paige ones at Nordstrom and they were the softest material ever, I wanted to love them so much, but they did not work for me. If you have been blessed with super slim thighs and can pull them off, I suggest you try those ones. After pretty much giving up on the idea of these, I found these slim fit cargo pants at AT Loft last weekend. On sale for $19.99 plus an additional 25% off. I seriously want to live in these pants. I bought them in the brown color, because it was the only pair they had in my size, but I might get the green and khaki online. You seriously need to order these pants! These pants are the reason for my return to blogging. That's how awesome they are.

I also bought this jacket at the Gap a few weeks ago. I think I will wear it a lot when California is not having history breaking heat waves. It will be good with jeans and over dresses.

best nordstrom rack day ever

2010-03-31T08:50:00.000-07:00

These Jimmy Choo pumps are selling at Nordstrom right now for $500, but for some reason I found a pair in my size at the Rack for 75% off! I am pretty sure there was some kind of mistake, but I am not complaining. You can't really tell from this picture, but they are patent leather, which in my opinion is the best kind of leather for shoes. I like shiny! They are pretty basic, but you can't go wrong with a classic black pump. FYI- in case you ever come across a pair of Jimmy Choos online for a crazy good deal and don't know what size to get, they run extremely small. I'm talking about needing to size up 1 to 1.5 sizes.

Tory Burch Private Sale!!

2010-03-26T12:44:00.000-07:00

If you love Tory Burch, you have to check out the private sale ASAP- http://www.toryburchprivatesale.com/. I just bought this Simone cardigan, which C and I absolutely love. We both have a couple of them. The quality is really good and they last forever. I have had mine for almost 2 years! This one has a detachable dickie- which will be gone as soon as I open the box. It was originally $295, but I just got it for $88! YAY! It also comes in a heather grey. I also got a cheetah print cardigan. There is a whole bunch of other stuff too. Definitely check it out!

Update- so I just saw on facebook that you can only access the website if you are already on the Tory Burch mailing list.

Cut-off shorts

2010-02-26T13:26:00.000-08:00

Hearing someone mention "cut-offs" does not exactly conjure up good pictures in my head. It makes me think of people wearing too short daisy dukes or those shorts with pockets longer than the inseam from Abercrombie. BUT, I am digging this recent trend of rolled up cut-offs like the picture above from the Spring Cole Haan catalog. It totally takes me back to 8th or 9th grade. I am so going to make some this weekend from an old pair or jeans from J Crew that I haven't worn in about 5 years. I will post pictures if they turn out well.

PS- What do you think about pairing them with tights for the winter? I've seen pictures of Nicole Richie styling them like that, but not sure how well you could pull it off in real life.

tattoo inspired trucker hats for children are not a good idea

2010-02-26T08:58:00.000-08:00

Longest post title ever. One of our faithful readers sent this to me a few days ago knowing my penchant for ripping on anything related to Ed Hardy (thanks Melissa!!). This is a faux Ed Hardy brand of hats for kids called Cade Christian. I feel bad for any child subjected to wearing this. They will most definitely end up on some VH1 reality show of some kind in 15 to 20 years.

My must-have jacket for spring

2010-02-26T08:02:00.000-08:00

You should go buy yourself a military-inspired jacket immediately. I bought this one at Old Navy for about $40 and it is is so versatile. It comes in a whole bunch of colors. Looks great with jeans and over a dress. It is really light weight- perfect for the warmer spring days.

cool way to tie a scarf

2010-02-26T07:56:00.000-08:00

So simple! Via http://thesartorialist.blogspot.com/

these shoes were hit with the ugly stick

2010-01-29T13:55:00.000-08:00

So, I few days ago I posted a picture of some weird converse shoe/boot hybrids. I thought that they were the ugliest shoes I had seen in a while. Well, I think this pair of DENIM UGGS steals that title. I mean, we give Uggs a hard time, but I can kind of, sort of understand the appeal of the original ones because they are so comfortable. But, these are ridiculously ugly- even for a company that named their shoes Uggs because they are so ugly. True story.

corsage top

2010-01-29T07:58:00.000-08:00

Isn't that the most giant flower you have ever seen on an article of clothing?! It is crazy and I love it. I bought this kate spade top in purple from Neiman's last week. It was like 75% off. They are having an amazing sale right now.

Is there anything better than Chanel?

2010-01-28T14:11:00.000-08:00

NO.

Chanel Spring 2010 couture show. Have you noticed this trend lately of grey highlights? I saw pictures of Kate Moss yesterday with some. Grey hair has also shown up in a lot of magazine spreads recently. I am intrigued.

Pictures from Style.com.

The ugliest shoe I've seen in a while

2010-01-27T11:14:00.000-08:00

Cutest hat

2010-01-25T13:46:00.001-08:00

Isn't this the cutest beanie ever?!

I found it at Etsy.

kate spade flats

2010-01-22T13:29:00.000-08:00

We both love these kate spade flats. It is like a big ole hunk of jewelry for your feet. Waiting for them to be 75% off...

Zac Posen Spring 2010

2010-01-19T12:33:00.001-08:00

I'm obsessed with these looks from Zac Posen, but I'm seriously saddened by the fact that I can't afford them. I love the bubble gum pink dress...how adorable for spring! I've never been too interested in any of his collections before, however, this season I keep seeing really cute things on all my favorite department store websites. If only I had $2000 to burn! Hmmm...maybe Target will come out with a more affordable Zac Posen line.

It's the most wonderful shopping time of the year

2010-01-11T08:23:00.001-08:00

After Christmas sales!!!!!!!!!

Boots!! These camel colored boots have been on my to-buy list since about September. But, I did not want to dish out $250 for them. So I waited and waited. I bought these last weekend at Banana Republic for $110. Not too bad. They look great over jeans or leggings and I have been wearing them a lot with skirts and dresses too. Very comfy. Of course, now that I have new boots, the weather has been about 75 degrees and I have been wearing sandals. Not to make all you non-Californians feel bad, but I even went to the beach on Saturday! IN JANUARY.

Oh, and I also bought them in black. When something you like is on sale you should not hesitate to buy multiples. ;)

Skirts

2010-01-07T10:56:00.000-08:00

I did a quick evaluation of my closet this morning and realized I am in need of some new skirts for work. I just checked out Banana Republic and they only have 8 styles of skirts available and of those 8, this is one of them! WTF. If it was 2001 and I was still in college and I saw this at Abercrombie, I would have thought this skirt was great. Today, not so much. Whiskering and fraying? Are skirts out?! What is going on?

Tuxedo cardigan

2010-01-06T13:27:00.000-08:00

I can't tell you how much I wanted this Keaton tuxedo cardigan from J Crew. I love that it looks like a jacket, but is an oh-so-much-more comfortable sweater. I passed on it the first time I saw it cause it was $118. I kind of forgot about it for a while until I saw it on sale on J Crew's website. I was excited until it said that it was sold out- btw- isn't it a major buzz kill when you see something you want online, click on it and THEN find out it is sold out?! Why do they even let you click on it if you can't buy it? I went to the South Coast Plaza store and they only had an x-small (sooo not my size). The search continued on to eBay. I was desperate. Obsessed. I kept thinking if only I had this sweater everything in my closet would work together better. I thought of everything I would wear it with- a pencil skirt for work, over a casual dress, with black skinny jeans, a white tank, layers of pearls and black patent pumps. I would look taller, thinner, blonder, richer, etc (yes...I am kind of joking but I am also kind of delusional when it comes to clothes). A couple days later I was at the Shops at Mission Viejo killing time between dinner with my husband and going to the gym when I found it at the J Crew store! There was one sweater, in my size, and on sale with an additional 20% off, which brought the price down to about $30. It was meant to be. Mission accomplished- I can now delete my eBay email alerts for "J crew tuxedo cardigan" and move on to my next obsession.

January Antho catalog

2010-01-06T13:22:00.000-08:00

I got the new Anthropologie catalog in the mail yesterday, and, of course, I want everything in it. I love this look with the circle skirt dress, the open trench, the oxfords and the newspaper as an umbrella. I want to walk around some Italian city dressed like this.

The Snuggle Suit

2010-01-05T16:54:00.001-08:00

Seriously?! What happened to wearing clothes and using blankets?! It's only the first week of January and this may already be the worst trend of the entire year. Available @ www.jcpenney.com for the low price of $24.99.

Yes, there's an app for that

2010-01-04T09:45:00.000-08:00

Oh, how I love my iPhone. Not quite sure how I lived without one all those years. Besides being all-around awesome, it is an excellent shopping companion. I thought I would share with you some of my favorite fashion/shopping apps. All of these Apps are free.

Style.com- This is Vogue's website/app (sister site? not sure). Lot's of video's from fashion shows, pictures from nearly every major collection, a style blog. Basically, lots of pretty things for you to look at that you can't afford. More inspiration than actually shopping.
Chanel- More pretty things to look at. Good if you are in a foreign land and need to find the closest Chanel to you.
Shopstyle- This is a must have app. It is just like the website. You can look for items based on type, designer, store, price, color, etc. When you find what you are looking for it will send you to the store's website.
Chipotle- Not really good for shopping specifically, but if you are out shopping and get hungry you can find the nearest Chipotle and place your order on your phone. YUM.
Amazon- I like to compare prices to Amazon a lot when I am out because books and other things are almost always cheaper on Amazon than they are in stores. Plus, there isn't any sales tax on Amazon.
Piperlime- Yes! This is a new app for all of the Gap family stores- Old Navy, Gap, Banana Republic, Piperlime, Athleta. Browse the store and you can order items while you are on-the-go. Pretty cool. The only thing that would make this better is if you could find out if your item is available in your local store and then put it on hold. A girl can dream!
Net-a-Porter-More pretty things I can't afford. Fun to look at.

Let me know if you know of any other cool apps that I need to get!

Happy 2010!!

2009-12-30T16:36:00.000-08:00

My fashion new year's resolutions for 2010: 1. Stop buying crap at Forever 21 that never gets worn or used. 2. Donate clothes and shoes that I don't wear anymore (the A&E show Hoarder's has changed my life!) 3. Stop buying clothes just because they are on sale! Only buy things that I REALLY love. 4. Blog more.

Rodarte for Target- a success!

2009-12-30T10:54:00.000-08:00

I can't even tell you the amount of disappointing collaborations there have been between high-end designers and mass retail stores. Either the stuff is unwearable (McQueen for Target) or it sells out in a microsecond (I'm still bummed I didn't get my studded flats from the recent Jimmy Choo for H&M collection). But, the Rodarte collection for Target looked promising. I totally scored when I walked into Target to pick up a retirement card for my boss before heading to the gym early last Saturday morning. The collection wasn't even supposed to be out until the next day. I completely freaked out. I started grabbing everything that they had in my size like a madwoman. It was a very exciting morning. The clothes are really well made. My favorite things are these three that I posted. I bought the lace cardigan in mustard yellow and also one in black. I love the trompe l'oeil lace dress so much. And the tulle dress I am planning to wear to this fancy schmancy shin dig I am going to for NYE tomorrow. Oh, and I can't wait to wear the lace tights. I think they are so cool!!!

The most amazing dress...ever

2009-12-29T16:55:00.000-08:00

I have to apologize for the lack of posts lately. I guess we have not been in a blogging mood. I watched Julie and Julia the other day and it kind of put me back in the spirit. I hadn't t really thought of anything to share with you until I saw this amazing Derek Lam dress on shopbop a few minutes ago. Isn't it gorgeous?! It is a piece of art. I would never be able to afford it or fit into it (the biggest size it comes in on the website is a 4), but I love looking at it.

A shoe Carrie Bradshaw would approve of

2009-12-03T13:57:00.001-08:00

On the way back from a recent weekend trip down to San Diego, I decided to make a quick stop at the Carlsbad outlets. Usually I only hit up the Banana Republic Factory Store, but decided to spend some time in the Barney's outlet. Some "Big Bird" yellow suede Manolo Blahnik's caught my eye, and what do you know, they are my size! AND marked down to $175 from their original price of $575. I understand that that might still seem like an absolute crazy amount to spend on a pair of shoes, but in designer shoe world, this is a bargain. Red has always been my go-to pop of color shoe, but I think that yellow will be even more versatile. Can't wait to wear them!

PS- How cute are the pink and blue ones too? I would have had a tough time deciding between them if I had the option of all three!

Rodarte for Target

2009-12-03T11:49:00.000-08:00

I will FOR SURE be at Target when it opens on December 20th. Definitely getting the mustard lace cardigan and those tights!! Merry Christmas to me!!! Check out all the looks here.

Ella Moss/Splendid Sample Sale

2009-11-19T08:52:00.000-08:00

Attention LA and Orange County- Splendid and Ella Moss Sample Sale this weekend! I went to one this past summer and got some really good deals. I recommend getting there early!

One more reason to love Costco

2009-11-16T11:39:00.000-08:00

I love Costco as much as everyone else. I mean, where else could you purchase tires for your car, a year's supply of (fill in the blank), a coffin, or a Chanel bag?! Dang I wish I lived in NYC! Even their Costcos are better than ours. As far as I know, there isn't any Chanel or Louis in the OC Costcos.

The perfect inexpensive holiday party dress!

2009-11-16T08:41:00.000-08:00

I saw this dress at my local Target store last week and could not believe my eyes! This velvet one-shoulder dress was calling my name. Perfect for any holiday party or dinner! And it is only $39! Love.

Tory Burch Nova dress

2009-11-12T12:57:00.001-08:00

I really love this chain necklace dress from Tory Burch (looks so awesome in person, this picture does not live up to its true gloriousness*). I hit up Neiman's one-day sale yesterday, and it was one of the few things not on sale. GRRRR. I refuse to pay full price for it. I did get an aweseme pair of Tory pumps 40% off though, so the day wasn't a total loss.

*pretty sure (positive) gloriousness is not a word, but I felt like it fits here.

Tory Burch eyewear

2009-10-30T13:39:00.001-07:00

Obvs you all know what big Tory B fans we are. She came out with a
sunglasses line today! Love them. Prices are under $200 (less than
Chanels or Tom Fords but more than Ray Bans). Sunglasses really are
the best accessory in my opinion. Like Tory, I never leave home
without them.

More Ed Hardy crap to make fun of

2009-10-27T11:48:00.000-07:00

I was perusing my local Whole Foods yesterday when I spotted this
section of Ed Hardy wine. So dissapointed in Whole Foods for carrying
this! Can't you just see Jon Gosselin and his girlfriend drinking this
on a Friday night?

Trying on jeans...dressing room not necessary

2009-10-25T09:18:00.000-07:00

T and I were at the mall recently and while shopping at Macy's I remembered I was wanting a new pair of jeans. Since I had a coupon for 25% off of one item which could also be used in Impulse (section of Macy's with all the top designers that rarely accepts coupons) I decided to try on some jeans since I've been looking for the perfect dark, skinny pair. As always at Macy's, the dressing rooms were not up to par. They were crowded, messy and not appealing whatsoever. So I decided to take matters in to my own hands and try on jeans under the skirt that I was wearing that day. T stood with my patiently as I tried on up to 7 pairs of jeans in different sections of Impulse. Some people stared...a sales associate eyed me closely, but I got my business done (and didn't manage to flash anyone in the process). AND, the best part is, I ended up walking out of there with a $60 pair of Citizens of Humanity jeans!!

a new and improved Ann Taylor

2009-10-23T12:59:00.000-07:00

We have always thought of Ann Taylor kind of as a place for moms (my mom absolutely adores it) and professional business women. But, recently the Ann Taylor people have had a change of heart. They have decided to become less work, more play. The clothes are much more chic and stylish, while still appropriate for work. I like this sweater dress above. The exaggerated shoulder is totally on-trend for fall. Way to go Ann Taylor- your new fall line is definitely a big improvement over the boring suits and floral ensembles from your past.

You know you're a shopaholic when...

2009-10-22T14:12:00.001-07:00

the salesperson at your favorite store notices that you got a haircut.

Spring 2010 J Crew

2009-10-22T09:43:00.000-07:00

I have been checking out Style.com for the past several weeks to see all the spring fashion shows- and there were so many pretty things. But, let's be real...99% of us will not be purchasing any of that stuff because, well, we like to eat and have a roof over our head when we sleep. J Crew had their spring 2010 presentation yesterday and fashionista has the pics. Check them out. As a J Crewholic, these pictures make me uber-excited for fall to be over, and honestly it has barely even begun in good ole southern CA.

Bailey 44

2009-10-20T20:28:00.000-07:00

More cute embellished items that I have to share with you all!! I'm dying to get this sweater by the brand Bailey 44. This brand has been popping up in Nordstrom, Bloomingdales and Anthropologie...a few of our faves. And the jersey material is so incredibly soft and offers the perfect amount of stretch to make it very figure flattering. And I love that all their items are neutrals and nothing too flashy.

The Tuxedo Jacket

2009-10-20T20:14:00.000-07:00

I love the look of jeans, a white tank top and a cute jacket for an effortless yet very smart fashion statement. I've been seeing the tuxedo jacket everywhere these days and I expecially love this one from piperlime.com because of it's fun color and longer length. I think I would add a cute bronze belt cinched at the waist to make the look even more feminine!

C does still exist

2009-10-20T20:00:00.000-07:00

Hello bloggers and followers and friends!! My loyal co-blogger T has been knocking my socks off with some amazing posts lately, while I have been MIA. I'm still here though! Just a few minor technical difficulties on the computer side of my life but I will prevail and I miss this blog so much. I want to take a minute to applaud all you fashion-obsessed followers of ours and we love your feedback. Keep the comments coming! As we are knee-deep into the fall season I can hardly wait for the approaching Holidays and the clothes that come with this time of year. T and I were debating the whole faux-fur vest trend and wondering if it would be a good addition to our wardrobes this time of year. It sure looks cozy but maybe too much of a "here today, gone tomorrow" kind of trend. What do you think?

As Rachel Zoe would say...

2009-10-20T16:31:00.000-07:00

I DIE.

OMG. I LOVE this Etsy store. Everything is gorgeous and looks straight out of an anthropologie catalog. She will custom make the items for you- you get to pick the color of the fabric. She makes sizes 0-16 and and can even send in your measurements for a custom fit. Here are some of my favorite things from her store.

One dress- 7 different ways. I like the cowl neck/scarf look on the bottom row.

LOVE this asymmetrical ruffle sleeve.

This dress is my absolute favorite. I am seriously thinking about ordering it in purple.

dkny flats

2009-10-20T13:56:00.000-07:00

C and I were shopping on Saturday and on our to-do list was find a pair of grey flats for C because she had practically worn through her previous beloved pair. While checking out at DKNY, I spotted these gunmetal flats. She tried a pair on, but they were too big, and so I tried them on "for fun" while we were waiting for her size. Of course, then I was in love with them too and somehow we both ended up with a pair. Not only are they cute, but comfortable as well. The bottom of the shoe looks like an athletic shoe. They are also available in bronze and black.

Sweater clip

2009-10-20T08:14:00.000-07:00

I am a total Gleek. Glee is awesome. It is hilarious and the music is so much fun. If you aren't watching it, you should be. Emma from Glee is my new inspiration for work style. Her clothes are bright and fun and kind of 1960's retro. I love the sweater clip (sweater guard?) that she wore on the show a few weeks ago. I am obsessively searching eBay and etsy to find the perfect one. I'll let you know when I get one!

Brown

2009-10-19T08:49:00.000-07:00

I have decided to stop purchasing any more brown clothing items. They
always end up sitting in my closet unworn. I know it's a neutral but I
just find it hard to incorporate brown into my outfits. Does anyone
else feel this way too?

random rant of the day

2009-10-16T13:21:00.000-07:00

Why do so many celebrities think they can be clothing designers? It almost always spells d-i-s-a-s-t-e-r (yes, I am looking at you Lindsay Lohan). And even more of them want to create perfumes. Why do businesses think that we want to smell like Britney Spears? It seems crazy to me. Although, even crazier, are the people that buy this crap. What makes these people spend their hard earned money to buy a perfume by Jessica Simpson or Paris Hilton? I would guess that they are probably the same people that wear Ed Hardy t-shirts...

LOVE Leifsdottir

2009-10-15T09:37:00.000-07:00

I purchased my first item from Leifsdottir last week and it arrived on my doorstep last night. Of course I had to wear it immediately. Leifsdottir is crazy expensive- even when I have found it on the sales rack at Anthropologie- so I have never been able to buy anything. But, last week I got an email notification from Gilt (I just joined Gilt and it is sooo cool! Let me know if you need a membership invite!) that there was a Liefsdottir sale where everything was 60-80% off. YAY! I got this top for $50, which is still a lot for a top, but it is still $118 at Nordstrom, so I feel like I got a pretty good deal. There are so many little details on the shirt that make it really cute. I love the tiny gold buttons and the ruching on the shoulder. LOVE.

A new shoe invention

2009-10-14T15:45:00.000-07:00

Let me introduce you to Footzyrolls (yes, this is a really dumb name). They are ballet slippers that you can roll up into a ball and throw into your bag for foot emergencies (examples would be- too much dancing, walking, standing in gorgeous, painful heels). I have been in this situation many-a-time. I love that these are so tiny and are only $25! I am totally getting some. Which color? Black, silver, or gold?

layering for fall

2009-10-14T14:54:00.000-07:00

I am pretty much wearing this exact same outfit today, except I my dress is grey, and I am wearing tall boots. It is very comfortable and cute, if I do say so myself. I had someone at work come up to me and ask me if it was all one piece (no, it's not) and then thought I was a genius for putting a turtleneck under a shift dress (not really genius at all if you have ever read Lucky magazine, since there is something about layering in almost every issue). So, I decided to share this picture with you in case it has never dawned on you to try this either. It is a nice way to transition spring/summer dresses to fall.

Balmain

2009-10-06T08:38:00.000-07:00

If you haven't heard of Balmain, let me give you a little introduction. French designer, Balmain, is responsible for the current "big shoulder" trend. Balmain is often seen on Beyonce and Rihanna. If you would like to purchase Balmain clothing , you better be a pop star and/or obscenely wealthy. For example, this white Balmain top costs $4,435.00. WTF!?! I do not understand this. Who can/would buy something like this? I understand that some things are expensive- like a haute couture dress that someone wears to the Oscars or a classic Chanel jacket which you could wear until you are 100, but a silk top with some pointy shoulders will not look right in a couple of seasons (or maybe even a couple weeks).

riding boots, done and done

2009-10-06T08:08:00.000-07:00

I blogged a few weeks ago about my determination to purchase riding boots this season. I really liked the ones at Banana, but was trying to stay under $100 since, let's be honest- how much will I really wear these since they are too casual for work and I live in Southern California. So, I ended up getting these at Target. They were only $39 and they are comfortable and look pretty cute on! Obviously, for $39 you are not going to get a leather boot, but they will do for now. The back of the boots is made of this stretchy elastic material, which is a little cheesy looking, but not really that noticeable. Did I mention they only cost $39!

Skinny belts...let's try this again

2009-09-29T07:54:00.000-07:00

H&M.
$5.95!

More than just underwear

2009-09-28T15:05:00.000-07:00

This past year I've been really impressed with Victoria's Secret online clothing collection. Especially the cute and trendy options for work (i.e. blouses and pants). I really like the Bridget Fit trouser pants which also come in "tall" lengths.

I found this plaid shirt on the website today which I really like. I haven't quite gotten in to the whole plaid flannel shirt craze which I see lots of girls wearing these days, however, this style appears more feminine than most I've seen. I like that it's more of a tunic style then just a traditional men's shirt style.

AND...there are always great incentives online like free shipping with a $50 or $100 purchase, discounts on certain items throughout the week and incredible sales...check out the swimwear and summer sale going on right now!

Skinny belts

2009-09-27T14:49:00.000-07:00

How could I pass up buying these skinny belts at H&M this week? They only cost $5.95 each!

when i was 13...

2009-09-25T14:33:00.001-07:00

all my clothes were from JC Penny, Ross, Payless and Mervyns
all i wanted to do was go to slumber parties, play volleyball, and read the Babysitter's Club Books
all of my fashion influence came from reading Teen Magazine
Tilly's was my favorite store and high fashion was Roxy- it was practically haute couture to me

But, this 13 year-old girl writes an awesome fashion blog, wears cool vintage clothes, and attends NY Fashion week. I am a little bit envious. Ok, a LOT envious.

I am so glad you posted about this girl on your blog Ally!

The Fido handbag...an unhealthy obsession

2009-09-25T13:46:00.001-07:00

I saw this recently at a fundraising event for an animal rescue foundation. It startled me and I found it a bit ironic for the event I was attending...but not a good kind of irony. This purse was almost an exact replica of a live animal...a bit creepy if you ask me. And not necessarily my idea of a "cute" accessory for a party focused on raising money to save the animals.

This is a fashion statement that might be cute on a 4 yr. old girl but other than that, shouldn't be available for grown adults to purchase in stores.

OK, I give up! I bought some leggings

2009-09-24T07:21:00.000-07:00

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Leggings are EVERYWHERE right now. I have never liked the capri length leggings that some have worn the past couple of years, but I am loving these ankle length ones. I finally bought some last week. I wore them out to dinner last weekend with a short sweater dress, which I think worked well! Can't wait to wear them with some longer cardigans or tunics. I really like all of these styles in the video above. Not sure I could pull of the leather ones, but they look great on other people!

20% off at Banana Republic

2009-09-23T12:48:00.000-07:00

Use the code BR48HOURS at BR to get 20% off if you spend $75 or more.
Ends tomorrow! I think it even works on sale items!

Peter Som Spring 2010

2009-09-23T09:52:00.001-07:00

I think that Peter Som's show was my favorite from last week's NYC
shows. Everything is ladylike and a little bit quirky at the same
time. It just seems so fresh and perfect for spring. If only I could
afford some of it.

Socks?

2009-09-22T16:36:00.000-07:00

Is it weird I kinda like this socks with pumps look? Thoughts?

New party dress

2009-09-22T09:04:00.001-07:00

I just bought this dress from Anthro last week. I'm not sure if I've
mentioned this before, but I love dresses that look like they are two
pieces. I am obsessed with the ruffly corsage-like attachment on top.
So fun. I think this dress is completely party-appropriate. Cant wait
to wear it this weekend to C's cocktail party!

Tie belt

2009-09-21T13:58:00.001-07:00

This is the closest thing I could find to the belt from the Twelfth St Cynthia Vincent dress I posted last week. It's from Charlotte Russe and is less than $10! I am still going to keep looking though because I am holding out for a metallic leather one.

2009-09-21T13:49:00.001-07:00

I started reading this awesome new blog recently and I thought I would
share it with you. Check it out- www.therecessionista.blogspot.com

cigarettes- bad for you, good for pants

2009-09-21T07:00:00.000-07:00

I am liking these skinny leg trousers (cigarette pants) that are all over the place for fall. I think they look really cool with pumps or flats. I bought these DKNYC trousers at Macy's last weekend. I love them. They are really flattering on. AND, they are machine washable! So I will definitely end up saving some money on dry cleaning. Always a good thing.

some light reading

2009-09-20T17:01:00.000-07:00

I am having a hard time keeping up with all of my magazine reading. I think my magazine subscriptions may be out of control. This is my stack just from September and October. I currently have: a British Vogue, a British Bazzaar, two issues of American Vogue, two issues of American Bazzaar, two issues of Elle, and one In Style. This is in addition to the two issues of Lucky and one In Style that I have already read- I always read those first because they are the easiest to get through since they are mostly pictures. :) I hope I can finish reading these before the November issues get here!

equestrian boots

2009-09-16T16:03:00.000-07:00

I think for the past 3 or 4 fall seasons I have considered getting some flat equestrian boots and then don't get them for one reason or another (usually because they are too expensive and I wait for them to go on sale and then they sell out of my size or winter is already over). I think this will be the year that I go out and actually get them. I really like these from Banana Republic.

the cozy

2009-09-15T11:17:00.001-07:00

I am intrigued by the DKNY "Cozy." It is a cardigan that can be worn at least 12 different ways. There is a video on DKNY where you can see some of the different ways it can be worn. The Cozy even comes with an instructional booklet! I love the way the pink and yellow ones are styled in this photo. The versatility of the Cozy would help alleviate the guilt I would feel spending so much on one sweater. But, it's like buying 12 sweaters in one, right?! The big question is- what color? I am leaning towards the cobalt blue.

Purple is IN for Fall

2009-09-14T14:27:00.000-07:00

I'm thrilled to see that purple is back for Fall 2009! I love how purple just makes me think of cozy sweaters and boots and fall colors and this time of year! A lot of my excitement here can be attributed to my wanting this 90 degree southern California summer to end, however, I really do like getting dressed in the fall.

The sweater pictured here is from Forever 21. A great deal! The brooch attached and cute buttons make this otherwise plain cardigan much more stylish and chic.

2009-09-11T12:46:00.000-07:00

These are some great shoes I bought at Target. They aren't what I would normally pick, but they were on clearance for $7.48 so I couldn't pass them up. I wore them last night and I LOVE them. They are really comfy and look great (way better than the pictures here suggest). They are on sale at Target for about $10.

A fresh way to wear a scarf

2009-09-11T08:35:00.000-07:00

I love these pictures from Anthropologie. What an easy way to update your look. Just put two scarves together! Seems genius and completely obvious all at the same time.

I don't think we will be wearing scarves any time soon though, as it is supposed to be about 85 degrees today in southern California. Hopefully fall weather will be here soon!

Primary Colors

2009-09-10T10:18:00.000-07:00

I love a bright coat. If you are like me and wear a ton of black, a bright jacket (or cardigan) will make whatever you are wearing instantly more interesting. Here are some really good options for fall at all different price points. Isaac Mizrahi for Liz Claiborne.

J Crew

Tory Burch (I love this military-inspired look)

Forever 21

Old Navy- this is the one I am definitely getting. It is about $60. I think the big brass colored buttons make it look a lot more expensive. It would look great with jeans and boots.

Sam Edelman Fall 2009!

2009-09-10T10:11:00.000-07:00

I'm loving these shoes from the Sam Edelman Fall 2009 collection. I am a huge fan of flats to begin with and Sam is always coming up with chic and modern textures and colors for his collection of flats. If you're looking for a heel, the black pair (pictured) has a kitten heel which is perfect for tall girls like me. Also...I always love a grey flat...it's the perfect neutral. And I've out-worn my grey flats from last season so I've been looking for a new pair!

T and I had the pleasure of seeing Sam Edelman in person at a Nordstrom's in-store event last Spring!

2009-09-10T09:50:00.000-07:00

This dress is Twelfth Street by Cynthia Vincent. I think the dress is just okay, but I am loving the metallic tie belt that comes with it. I hope I can find a similar one somewhere else- preferably at Target, H&M or somewhere else really cheap. I hate spending money on belts.

Dress available at Piperlime.

pencil it in

2009-09-09T15:24:00.000-07:00

Pencil skirts are a must for fall. I love these two updated takes on the classic skirt. This one is from Anthropologie.

This one is LAMB, which is super cute too. Unfortunately, they are both about $150, so I am on the look out for a less-expensive version. But, if you are going to invest in something new, a pencil skirt is a good option, because it is definitely a classic.

I've gone Mad

2009-09-09T15:15:00.000-07:00

I have a serious Mad Men addiction (I know I am like 2 years behind everyone else). I just finished watching the first season on DVD and am completely obsessed with the early 1960's fashion (and furniture! I love mid-century modern decor). If you haven't seen it, you should watch just for the clothes alone.

Another houndstooth post

2009-09-08T13:30:00.000-07:00

This is the houndstooth dress that I bought at Target a few weeks ago. It is perfect for work. I just throw on a belt and a cardigan and I am good to go. And now it is on sale for $20!

arts and crafts time

2009-08-27T10:48:00.000-07:00

I adore these embellished shirts from J Crew. There are problems though. First, they are crazy overpriced. And second, whenever I do decide I am going to splurge and buy one they are always sold out. So, we have decided to try to make them. It seems like they will be pretty easy to make with some fabric glue and some ribbon and bead embellishments, but I have a feeling that it may be trickier than it looks. Does anyone have any advice? I think to make the stone shirt we would have to sew, so that probably won't happen. We'll let you know how they turn out next week (Hopefully it won't be a disaster)!

fall=houndstooth

2009-08-24T11:56:00.000-07:00

I love houndstooth for fall. This dress from Banana Republic will be a perfect addition to my work wardrobe. The green is gorgeous and the abstract/exaggerated houndstooth is really cool. I bought a couple really cute houndstooth things at Target this weekend, but there aren't any pictures online of them yet. I'll take some pictures and post them later.

dkny

2009-08-21T10:51:00.000-07:00

I recently discovered I love DKNY. There are so many Donna Karan lines out there, it is hard to keep them straight, but this is the contemporary line. The designs are classic and figure flattering. There are so many great dresses. Probably the biggest reason why I haven't shopped there much in the past is because the prices are not cheap. I have walked by the dresses at Nordstrom and Bloomingdale's wishing that the sale prices would be marked down a little bit more. This last weekend I lucked out and found this dress in my size at Nordstrom Rack! I was so excited and it was about 80% off the original price. (BTW- it is still full price at Bloomingdale's- what is up with that?!). It is pretty basic, but I think the color blocking makes it a little bit unique and it is really comfy. It is jersey on the top and a stiffer material on the bottom. It is the perfect day-to-evening dress.

Additional commentary- the Nordstrom Rack in San Marcos rocks. It is so much less stressful than the one in Costa Mesa. It was neat and orderly. I also found an awesome Tory Burch cardigan there. I think it may be worth the little bit extra drive from Orange County to go there. The Costa Mesa one is always soooo packed with people and really messy.

Rihanna

2009-08-20T08:15:00.000-07:00

I LOVE Rihanna's style. She always looks amazing and so different from everyone else out there. Those pearls and lace gloves are awesome.

PS- Sorry for being such a slacker blogger. I haven't been shopping much lately, but will be ramping up for fall ASAP, so I am sure I will have lots to blog about! I got all my new September fashion magazines this week! So excited to spend some time with them this weekend.

Now at Piperlime!

2009-08-18T14:14:00.000-07:00

The Gap Inc. brand and website "Piperlime" now carries designer clothing, rather than just shoes and handbags! Lables such as Splendid, Paige Premium denim, Juicy Couture and Citizens of Humanity can be purchased on the site and the shipping is always free! I love the Paige jeans and Splendid cardigan pictured here.

Shape-ups: worst shoes I've seen since Crocs

2009-08-10T11:57:00.000-07:00

I just returned from vacation which gave me plenty of free time to reflect and prepare more material for our blog. And what better material then ugly footwear! Well, I hate to say it but I've just found something that is comparable to Crocs/Ugs/Toms/etc. in ugliness factor: Shape-ups. I've seen these advertised in magazines over that past few months but didn't feel the need to address it until I saw a Sketchers ad on TV showing the above images. Now I'm all for working out and being physically fit and in shape, so don't take this post the wrong way, however looking hideous and 4 inches taller while working out it isn't necessary. Or are these shoes just for everyday wear? I suppose they are supposed to keep you toned while you're walking around doing everyday things. I'm confused...but I still believe these shoes are terrible!! And I must add that a Mary Jane style shoe isn't anywhere near a tennis shoe! They also come in a flip flop style.

If these shoes claim to build calve muscles and tone legs then that's all fine and dandy, but as a fashion forward person I'd like to just stick to the treadmill, jogging and eliptical machine to tone my legs just as well.

On a final note, my co-blogger and BFF T would absolutely agree with me on this one. T - I miss you, come back soon from vacation!

More disgusting Ed Hardy news

2009-07-20T11:37:00.000-07:00

Not that Jon Gosselin has anything to do with our fashion blog, but I had to share the following which I read with complete disgust... From Access Hollywood.com: "PARIS, France -- Jon Gosselin may have a new career in store – designer. Jon, from TLC’s “Jon & Kate Plus 8,” took a meeting with Christian Audigier of the Ed Hardy brand in Paris, France, on Saturday. According to a source close to the designer, Christian flew out the divorcing dad of eight for the meeting. Christian is interested in having Jon design a Bluetooth cell phone headset as he is aware Jon is a fan of the Ed Hardy brand, a source told Access Hollywood. In fact, Jon has been spotted regularly in recent months in Ed Hardy clothing. Jon said he was looking forward to his future. “I’m hurt by all of this, but I’m excited and hurt at the same time because I have a new chapter in my life. I’m only 32-years-old and I really don’t know what’s going to happen,” he told the TLC cameras at the time." Deadbeat dad and wears Ed Hardy...disgusting. And I heard he's thinking of collaborating with Audigier for a children's clothing line as well!!! Those poor kids. In regards to Jon and Kate, I've heard enough, but I thought it was important to share this info with our followers.

a continutation of my love for all bows

2009-07-16T16:46:00.000-07:00

I am digging this bow top- it combines my love of bows and one-shouldered things. And it is on sale! The shorts are hideous though.

Important Reminder

2009-07-16T09:35:00.000-07:00

The Nordstrom Anniversary Sale starts tomorrow! In case you don't know, this is the sale of all sales. It officially marks the beginning of the fall shopping season for me. Brand new fall items are marked, but will go back to their regular prices in a few weeks. Some things sell out quickly- usually women's shoes. So if there is something that you have your eye on, I suggest moving quickly! Honestly, I am not as excited for this year's sale as I have been in the past. For one, they aren't selling a gigantic years'-supply size of my favorite face wash (Philosophy's Purity). And two, the catalog was kinda blah. Usually there are a ton of things that I am excited for, and this year there was like one or two things that were kinda cool. Regardless, we will be there immediately following work tomorrow night.

The summer cardigan

2009-07-15T12:49:00.000-07:00

I've recently been seeing these vests on many of the sites that I shop, and I'm really liking them. My favorite thing is the fact that it's the perfect cover up for summer, over a tank top or even a dress. The one shown above is from Banana Republic and I think it runs for around $60 (but my advice is to shop Banana when there's a sale going on...it will probably go down about $20 soon). And the fish necklace that is shown with it is sold out online, but there is a similar necklace right now at Forever 21 online for about $5! This vest will be great for summer but will also come in handy for fall over button down blouses!

on par with ed hardy in my book

2009-07-15T09:19:00.001-07:00

The following is my rant on Juicy Couture.

I can't stand Juicy Couture. Now, it is not all bad. Some of the things that AREN'T velour sweat suits may even be cute on occasion. But, seriously, I can't take any more of the stupid matching sweat suits. What is even worse is when I see a girl walking around in matching Juicy sweats, a Louis Vuitton Speedy bag (could also be substituted for a Coach bag with huge "C"s all over), some sort of Tiffany silver heart necklace and big gaudy sunglasses. Individually, these items may be okay, but putting them all together simply does not work. It just looks like you put on everything "designer" that is in your closet. It looks dumb and it definitely isn't fashionable at all.

Long overdue...Ed Hardy post

2009-07-13T12:30:00.001-07:00

Two new things I learned today: Ed Hardy by Christian Audigier (sp?) makes swimwear and footwear. These pieces of information are not meant to get you excited people, rather disgusted in fact. I cannot convince you enough how ugly this designer line is. If the t-shirts aren't ugly enough, they usually range in price from $100 -$200...a complete rip off for what your are getting. If I wanted ugly, bright, bedazzled, skull covered crap I would go to Michaels craft store and make it myself for under $20!!! BUT...I would never want to wear anything like that so enough said.

Did I mention how ugly this stuff is? I can't stress it enough. It makes me sick to my stomach. Besides t-shirts, hoodies and apparently swimwear and footwear, there are also hats, handbags, scarves and yes...even a fragrance by Ed Hardy.

If you have any fashion sense at all you wouldn't dare wear anything from this line. Don't be an offender because T and I will find you.

Shoe heaven

2009-07-13T11:46:00.000-07:00

My husband and I just got back from a fabulous trip to NYC, and of course I had to get some shopping in. One of the musts for me was to visit the new shoe salon at Saks Fifth Avenue (the one actually on 5th Avenue- hence the name). It is so big, it was given its own zip code by the US government- 10022-SHOE. Incredible. I walked off the escalator and knew I was in heaven. It really is the biggest designer shoe department I have ever seen. It is completely gorgeous. They were having a giant sale and there were so many shoes in every size. If you are ever in NYC, make sure you stop by- it is seriously impressive. These pictures don't illustrate just how big the salon is- just trust me- it is BIG.

Even big sizes available! And on sale!

Someone threw up all over these shorts

2009-06-26T16:19:00.001-07:00

I just saw these on the Urban Outfitters website. Supposedly another form of the "harem pant." I really don't have much to say but to our followers....please do not ever wear anything like this. I don't care who you are or if you're a gypsy, I beg of you, this is one trend you should not follow. I don't like being the wet blanket or the negative one on this blog, but I do find one of my best qualities is giving insight to people about fashion. I seem to find the ugliest fashion out there and I'm thankful I can blog about it and hopefully prevent lost souls from attempting this kind of fashion on their own.

This is just plain ugly.

Try a floral print dress instead.

The Real Devil Wears Prada

2009-06-26T15:24:00.000-07:00

This looks amazing. I can't wait for The September Issue to come out. I heart Anna Wintour.

maxi dress

2009-06-20T10:09:00.000-07:00

I have wanted to attempt the maxi dress for a while now. I can't tell you how many I have tried that did not work for me. I loved this jersey one from Banana as soon as I tried it on. The best part is it is super comfy- and I had a 40% off coupon and a gift card! I am going to wear it all summer with sandals (either my gladiators or my new birks!) and maybe a denim jacket.

A shoe I never thought I would wear

2009-06-17T10:25:00.000-07:00

Last Saturday was a day that started out like most Saturdays. C and I met for lunch and shopping. The weird thing is the day ended up with me buying a pair a Birkenstocks. YES, Birkenstocks. Along with Uggs, and Crocs, this is a brand that I never would have thought possible to obtain a place in my closet. We were at Club Monaco, just about to walk out the door, when I spotted these sandals. I was completely going to make fun of them until I tried them on. They are the most comfortable shoes ever and these particular ones are pretty snazzy with the patent leather. Honestly, they don't even look like they are Birks when they are on your feet. Maybe I will have to take a picture with them on to prove this, but really they look pretty cute on! I don't condone the wearing of most Birks, but at least now I understand just how freaking comfortable they are and that there may be some exceptions to my no-Birk rule.

Nautical theme

2009-06-17T08:32:00.001-07:00

I may be going a little bit crazy on the nautical theme for my upcoming cruise, but I just can't stop myself. I just bought this mirrored anchor necklace from Forever 21 for $4.80. The one I bought is silver. And then I discovered these rope sandals on Old Navy's website yesterday. They look really cute in the picture. I am definitely going to head to the store to try them on. They come in a really cute red version too.

A Splendid Sample Sale

2009-06-15T15:48:00.000-07:00

Last weekend, my friend invited me to head up to LA to go to the Splendid/Ella Moss sample sale. Of course I had to go, since these are 2 of my favorite brands and I had never been to a sample sale. Inside a plain-looking warehouse in LA's fashion district, there were rows and rows of clothes and women frantically trying on clothes over whatever they had on. You had to rely on your friends because there were absolutely no mirrors (and signs that said "Absolutely no try-ons" which were completely ignored). It was pretty crazy, but so fun. I ended up getting this Ella Moss dress and skirt, plus a couple of Splendid cardigans that I love so much (and now have in just about every color). Everything was about 80% off retail prices. Apparently they have these sales about every 4 months. I definitely plan on going again. I signed up for email notifications for the next sale so I will post the date and location so you can check it out too.

Animal print gone very wrong

2009-06-15T10:57:00.000-07:00

I was quite disappointed with my Monday morning Bloomingdales email updating me on Dianne Von Furstenberg's new items to the site. As if Mondays aren't bad enough! I look forward to good fashion updates giving me all sorts of hopes for new styles to shop for, however, today Bloomy's was a little disapointing.

Designers have now resorted to putting actual animals on their clothing? Is this the new "animal print." I'm not so sure about this. Reminds me of those hideous little critters J-Crew used to put on every item of clothing (thankfully not anymore due to the brand's new Head Designer). And it's not like DVF put one item with tigers in her collection...she put 3! Even with a classic like the wrap dress...this print is just plain ugly.

I'd like to see more of the pretty, feminine prints and shapes that DVF does best!

Retro Swimsuit

2009-06-11T10:46:00.000-07:00

I have been looking everywhere for a cheap retro one-piece swimsuit but everything I found was over $100 which seems completely ridiculous for something I will only wear a couple of times (the one I REALLY wanted was the red one Miranda wore in the Sex and the City movie which was Norma Kamali and cost over $400...so yeah, not going to happen) and I finally found this one online at Target a few weeks ago. I LOVE it. It has some really cool rouching which makes it extremely flattering. It even comes with detachable straps which are important if you plan on actually swimming or doing any sort of activity besides lounging poolside. Unfortunately, I think it is sold out now, but maybe they will restock soon.

Pretty Woman

2009-06-10T08:42:00.000-07:00

I got this email from Neiman's this morning and thought "good lord, every one is going to look like a street walker this fall."

Love 21 (part II)

2009-05-19T14:39:00.000-07:00

Apparently it is available online today! Some pretty cute stuff at the prices we expect and love from F21! Although, it looks like it is only going to be available in a few select stores. : (

awesome F21 news

2009-05-19T13:31:00.001-07:00

Forever 21 is launching a contemporary line next week called Love 21. The line will have clothes that are a little more mature than what is currently offered there- about 50% of which should not be worn if you are over the age of 21. I can't wait to check it out.

the devil wears prada

2009-05-18T16:00:00.000-07:00

She is kind of terrifying, but I love her. $200,000 a year on clothes!?! A fascinating interview with Anna Wintour.