Playing Dress-Up With Pleats

My super-stylish friend {who's closet I want to raid!!!} had this dress on the other day...

source $98

...and I fell in love! The color is great. I love that it is light and airy. Big fan that it's not strapless. And most of all, those pleats! Ah-mah-zing. Since falling for this number, I've been on the hunt for acordian/knife/deft pleated pieces. Here are a few good finds to icorporate this look in your closet:




source $23 {what a deal!.. and it's reversible! 2 for 1!}




source $56


Any my favorite find:

source $98

Don't you just love the unexpected deep-v in the back? I sure do!

The Small Joys

Still sending prayers and love to the city of Boston and all those affected by the tragic events.

When everything else in life seems heavy, sometimes I find comfort in the small things. No, I'm not trying to ignore the bad in the world, or pretend like nothing happened, but I find myself reaching for small joys, whether that be an extra smile from someone you love or something that puts a smile on your face. And in this case, something that brightens the smile on your face...

NARS Satin Lip Pencils. Ah-mazing.

NARS $25

Luxembourg is the first shade for my collection, but I think I need to add Yu and Palais Royal soon! This lip formula goes on smooth and wears like an extra rich stain. I find it an easier way to rock the more intense colors... hence my choices listed here!

Oscar Fashion

Oh my goodness! HELLO! I've missed you all and this little piece of the blog world. 

And what better reason to rejoin than to chat about the Oscars?!?

I've seen a list or two of what others deemed "Best Dressed," but I have my own take on it... here it goes:

Simple and classic: Jennifer Aniston in Valentino

Business in front/party in back {in a GOOD way}: Jennifer Garner in Gucci

Beautifully beaded: Sandra Bullock in Elie Saab

Fabulous and a little bit fluffy: Amy Adams in Oscar de la Renta 

Makes me want to get all dressed up! Looking for more awards round-ups? Check them out here!

Grammy Gorgeousness

So awards season just keeps on coming! And I love it!

The Grammy's are the "anything goes" show when it comes to what the stars wear... some choices are a bit too out there for my taste! But don't let that statement fool you... there were some amazing dresses among the crowd. Like so:

Red HOT Rihanna

people.com

Rihanna is always gorgeous and this red Azzedine Alaïa dress is to.die.for! She was the talk of the night for other reasons as well {cough cough Chris Brown}, but her dress stole the show.

Cut-out Kelly

hollywoodlife.com

Kelly Osbourne doesn't usually make the cut {pun intended!} for best dressed for me, but this cut out dress by Paule Ka is a winner in my book. 

Solange Knowles Knows COLOR!:

hollywoodlife.com

Hello 2013 Pantone Color of the Year EMERALD! Solange Knowles rocks this color!!! I love the simple shape of this dress. It lets the amazing color speak for itself!

Allison Williams of 'Girls' Goes Glam

people.com

This Girl showed up in a Kaufman Franco number that was encrusted in black diamonds. Talk about making an entrance! Gorgeous. 

And although these dresses were b-e-a-u-tiful to look at, there were two gentlemen of the evening that caught my eye that I'd rather be looking at...

Gosh! Watching the Grammy's makes me want to go to every upcoming concert possible! 

Make a Statement

You guys! First of all, sorry I was a no-show here on the blog yesterday... I'm on the road and fully intended to get my post up, but lots of unexpected craziness crept up! I won't go into the long {gross} story, but let's just say I've never been happier to see a standard-issue clean Marriott hotel than I was late last night!

Anywho, let's chat about something way more fun... shall we?

It's no secret that I love jewelry! Always have! One of my favorite trends right now is statement necklaces. There is seriously something for everyone... like so:

Boho: Anything goes! This is a great way to incorporate multiple pieces... old and new!

Glam: This is a statement for sure! A look once reserved for black-tie and formal events, these pieces can now go for a casual ladies-who-lunch look, too.

Classic: Pearls have always been a staple in a lady's wardrobe, but now is the time to throw on the strand you inherited from your grandmother with the set you just got this season.

Colorful: These bubble necklaces truly have found there way into 9 out of 10 girls' closets this season, but I'm still loving them! Thanks J.Crew!

I'll be back tomorrow with a bit more jewelry inspiration and more ideas on what to wear for Valentine's Day! Who would have thought I'd be in such a festive mood for such a blah {at least for single-gal me :) } holiday?

SAG Awards Style

Hiya friends! I made it back from NYC... glad to be back home, but sure do love that city and can't wait for my next trip!!!

Is it just me or is anyone else really enjoying awards season this time around? Last night when I got home I was greeted by the SAG Awards on TV. I think the Globes would still be my first choice of show to attend, but it does look like they have a pretty darn good time at the SAG awards as well!

Dresses were beautiful! My top 3 favorites were:

#1 Jennifer Lawrence in Dior

#2 Nina Dobrev in Elie Saab {LOVE the color!}

#3 Naomi Watts in Marchesa

all images via glamour

Post Season Party Dress?

So you know Mama always said, "If the shoe fits, buy it... in two colors!" Ok, so maybe I added the second part! Well, does that rule apply to party dresses?

Here's my dilemma: Great dresses at sale prices, but we've just passed the prime party season of Christmas and New Years AND {for once in my twenty-something life} I don't have any weddings coming up until Spring, which by then these won't fit the bill. 

So, do I buy the dress or dresses and hang on to them for next years gatherings or pass on the bargains? Decisions, decisions.

Sequined Jacquard Dress / Colorblock Sequin Dress

I like these options because they aren't your typical sparkly numbers. Ya know?

Why is it that when you need a great dress for an upcoming occasion they are nearly impossible to find, yet when I have zero need for either of these fancy numbers, I could get them at a steal of a deal? Oh the pity.

Golden Globes Glam

HI! I'm back! Better late than never... had a little trouble getting back in the groove today, but what better reason to jump back on the horse than to talk about the beauty that was the Golden Globes last night!

I have to admit, I don't have one clear "Best Dressed" pick in my mind... there were a lot of pretty dresses, but nothing that truly wowed me. Anyone else feel the same?

That said, there were still plenty that caught my eye, and in reviewing some of my favorites, it seems like most colors came in pairs:

RED

Who would have thought Claire Danes would make a name for herself as such as fashionista back in her My So Called Life days? She traded 90's flannel for Versace. HUGE upgrade. She was also a favorite of mine at this past years Emmy Awards. And Jennifer Garner looks amazing, too! Dressed by my idol, Rachel Zoe!!! Love Rachel's eye for texture.

GOLD

I think Connie Britton looks so classy in this Kaufman Franco. Simple and elegant! Now, Kerry Washington definitely doesn't fall into the "simple" category with her dress, nor would I venture to try this look myself, but I think she looks stunning in this Miu Miu number. That dress is not something everyone could pull off, but it looks great on her!

PINK{ish}

Similar color and similar style? Is that a fashion party foul? Oh well... even if it is, I like both of these dresses! Amy Adams looks great in this Marchesa number, although I think it would have been a bit more successful if it were more pink and less of a nude shade. Still a great dress, though! And Hayden Panettiere also rocks the ballerina pink shade, but has the help of a tan in this Roberto Cavalli number. 

CORAL

Can Oscar de la Renta do any wrong? Not in my eyes! Jessica Alba rocked a classic OdlR style, but I just wish she would have chosen a better bag! Jennifer Lawrence also looked fabulous in the hue. Her version by Dior... love the metallic waist detail. Reminds me of a lot of the belts that are out these days. 

So those are a few of my fav dresses, but I can't wrap up this round up without mentioning the best part of the night... 

Tina Fey and Amy Poehler ROCKED IT as hosts of the evening! They were hilarious and made the show so enjoyable to watch! There is already buzz about them coming back for an encore performance for the 2014 Golden Globes! I don't know about you, but I'm keeping my fingers crossed!

All images: E! / Glamour / BravoTV / NY Daily News

Black Booties

I need a new pair of black booties. I have had the same pair of Steve Madden booties for about 7 years now {no joke}. I remember buying them at Lord & Taylor on Michigan Avenue in Chicago {when there was a Lord & Taylor on Michigan Avenue in Chicago!!} one fall break during college. I bought them before booties were cool and my sister hated them {Molly - I know you are reading this... you did... it's true}. If I could find the same pair, I would buy them all over again. I still love the style and they are super comfortable, but they have seen better days. 

Here are a few affordable options I am considering:

1 / 2 / 3

I'm leaning towards treating myself to the wedges, but #3 is a close second. What's a girl to do?

Cyber Monday Sales

Holiday shopping season is in full swing! Here are a few of the sales I'm perusing today on Cyber Monday and some of the items that have caught my eye:

1. Piperlime {20% off with code CYBER}

Rebecca Minkoff Perfection Tote

2. Tory Burch {Spend $300 get 20% off, spend $500 get 25% off, spend $750 get 30% off with code GIFTFORYOU}

Violet Small Tote

3. Kate Spade {No code necessary! Go here to view the items on the Surprise Cyber Sale}

Portola Valley Shanna

Are you seeing a theme here? A working girl can never have too many tote bags! That Kate Spade is a heck-of-a deal... I may just have to pull the trigger. Classic shape, great texture and fun color - that sounds like a winning combination!

Sassy Pants

Although this photo sums out how I feel about all Monday's in general, I'm ready to take this week by storm! 

Watch out, November...

{Can you even believe it's November?!?}

Ok, so not all of my pants are "sassy," but I did make sure when I was outfit planning for the week to add plenty of color, pattern and sass to put a little extra pep in my step!

Try a pop of neon, a statement necklace or fun shoes to brighten up your wardrobe for the week!

1 / 2 / 3

Hope your week is off to a great start! 

I Covet Kate Spade

First up, thoughts and prayers to everyone out East being effected by Crazy Lady Sandy. Stay safe! 

Kate and I go way back. I did an internship at the Kate Spade boutique in Chicago when I was in college, plus, Kate herself is a Kansas girl just like me! It's safe to say I truly love anything Kate Spade.

Right now, I'm obsessing over the shoes! When I worked at the store we had to wear the shoes, but I haven't really allowed myself to splurge on very many pairs since {it sure is a shame when the employee discount goes away!}.

Here are just a few that have caught my eye recently:

Left {top to bottom}
1. Charm: Can we say fancy? This shoe would make any party outfit!
2. Reena: I think I would wear this as my go-with-everything fall shoe. I was in love with these the first time I laid eyes on them when I was in NYC... and now they're on sale... time to pull the trigger? Just maybe!
3. Fondue: A great leopard print and a statement heel? What a perfect combination!

Middle
1. Mandie: Oh Mandie! You had me at the bow!

Right {top to bottom}
1. Loire: A little something extra to the basic black? Yes, please! We all know I love my polka dots! And a little sparkle never hurts!
2. Leslie: Well hello neutral with a twist! Love the wooden heel.
3.  Kalla: And of course, Miss Spade knows how to add a smart splash of color. 

My closet needs each and every one of those! 

On another note, HAPPY HALLOWEEN!! Hope you all are trick and treating yourself to a sweet treat or two! I wonder if I hop down to the Kate Spade boutique and trick or treated, if they would give me a pair of shoes from my wishlist? Might be worth a try!

Peplum

Peplum is one of those trends that I like, but I'm nervous to try. I don't think my hip region needs any help looking larger. Somehow though, I still think I want to try it!

This is one of those situations where the fit is key, so investing in a good quality piece is important, however, since this is a trend that may not stick around, it's also tempting to find an inexpensive option.

What would you do?



J.Crew or Target



Crew Cuts

Oh my goodness! I know I already said when it comes to crafting, I want to be young again, but I'm having another case of 'let's turn back the hands of time!' 

I received a J. Crew Crew Cuts catalog in the mail and was seriously in love with every page. It was not the usual "awww that's so cute" sentiment when it comes to cute kiddos, but I was in love with the fashion in a "I want to wear that!" kind of way. 

I would take this little lady's wardrobe in a heartbeat:

www.jcrew.com

I better start saving my pennies now for my future mini fashionista. Thanks for the warning, J. Crew!

Boot Season

It's that time again.... BOOT SEASON! I love this time of year when the summer steam has faded away and it's time to start wearing boots and scarves and layers and all things cozy!

Let's play a little game of dress up boot up, here...

1. Everyone needs a little fringe for the fall, don't ya think? And these are a great go-with-everything find!

2. I'm not going to lie, I tried to pick these up at the Nordstrom Anniversary Sale, but sadly my calves were too big. I should be happy I saved the money because they are a pretty penny, but I still have dreams of having these classic riding boots in my collection. I've never had a problem with my calf size before... maybe it was a sign they were too expensive.

3. Gotta love a wedge! Gives you the height, but doesn't sacrifice the comfort. Plus, again, this is a great all-around color! AND even better, these are on sale.

4. Another classic pick. Have you seen Coach's Legacy Collection? It's pretty amazing. Coach was off my radar for a while, but the Legacy Collection has brought them back full-force and I absolutely covet these boots!

5. I don't know if it's because I'm from Kansas and the whole Wizard of Oz/Dorothy connection, but I am endlessly attracted to red shoes. These red booties are no exception! Keep your eye on the price on this site... it varies day to day and I scored this exact pair for less than $40! 

My Newest Obsession

Joe Fresh. If you haven't heard of it yet, you will! It is definitely my newest favorite store. While in NYC this past weekend for the Make It A Woman's Day event my colleagues and I had dinner with some of our friends from Women's Day Magazine and they recommended we make a stop at Joe Fresh on our weekend shopping extravaganza... {ok, so maybe "extravaganza" is a bit of an exaggeration.}  

Not only was the selection, store and staff awesome, the prices were even better! Don't get me wrong, I love designer labels, but due to the fact I'm a shopoholic, I need to get my fashion fix at a reasonable price. We loved it so much we made a second trip back before we left town. Think H&M/Forever21 prices, but even better quality. It is currently only in NY and NJ, but I'm hoping it makes it was to the midwest soon. 

Kiddo Crafting

Can we turn back the hands of time? By 20 years or so? I want to be little again so I can get in on these cool crafts, coloring books and such. When I have my own little girl, you better believe I will be living vicariously through her and buying her products such as these!

anthropologie

I think I might need this coloring book at my desk. It would make conference calls so much more entertaining.

The Paper Souce

This little wreath could be a cute addition to a colorful gallery wall in a little girls room... or a big girls room... or my room.

etsy

I might have to order these for real. Any suggestions on what I could do with them? I no longer have a trapper keeper to decorate, but these have got to make their way into my life somewhere or another!