Merry Christmas!

(photo card design via announcing you)

shopping guide: {last minute!}

Yikes... the finish line is close (Christmas!) and if you haven't ordered online yet, you're going to have to find some great last minute gifts in your town. These last minute ideas are either found at your local grocer/big box store or will take a few clicks of your mouse to achieve... but don't be alarmed... they are still Santa-approved!

(1)

Who doesn't love a home-spun mix tape?

Dial up iTunes and with a few clicks you have a ultra-personal and ready to go gift!

(2)

Champagne is "in-season"...

Between Christmas and New Year's your gift recipient can surely find the right moment to crack open a bottle of GOOD champagne! Stop by your local grocer and spend a few extra bucks to spoil a friend or loved one!

(3)

A magazine subscription, for the person that has it all!

Quick snag a few mags from your local grocer or big box store... wrap them up in a fun gift bag, but not before snagging the subscription postcards from inside them! You pay for the subscription to land on your friends door each month for a year and they won't stop thanking you!

(4)

TOMS!

E-cards are available for purchase online and your recipient will get an email on Christmas morning with instructions on how to redeem it for a new pair of kicks. I happened to be the recipient of one of these last year and absolutely LOVED it!

(5)

Fresh Orchids...

So glamorous, so elegant and so EASY! My local grocer always has an amazing selection of orchids available year round... and usually they are under $25. They last for about a month when taken home and are perfect for the hard-to-buy for!

my outfit: visions of sugar plums!

With all the holiday hub-bub, I had completely forgotten that I had ordered this amazing MATT & NAT bag from GILT recently! I was THRILLED to say the least to unwrap this little treat for myself. One way to get out of rut with neutrals (which I am a slave to) is fun punches of color in your accessories. I think this purse officially brings me out of my rut for the winter. I was so proud of myself for stepping out of the box and buying a handbag that wasn't brown, black or grey.

Saturday Errands

MATT & NAT Handbag, GILT (Here's the same one...

but I got mine for way cheaper at GILT!)

Velvet Blazer, JCrew

T-shirt, JCrew

Leopard Print Belt, Forever 21 (similar)

Jeans, Gap

Classic Short Uggs, Nordstrom

good LOOK for less: Tonya of Kotori!

A few weeks back Tonya contacted me to do a quick wardrobe consult for her to spruce up her winter wardrobe a bit! Many of you may know Tonya from her lovely blog, Kotori. She's a busy mom from Texas that not only blogs, but has a little jewelry business on the side that is a MUST SEE for moms looking for timeless ways to honor their children in jewelry form.

Tonya had a budget of about $200, including a gift certificate for Nordstrom that she wanted to use for some new boots and two great pairs of Sevens jeans to build on. Here's what her shopping list looked like:

If your wardrobe needs a spruce up this time of year... think tops and fun accessories! You won't believe how far your money can go! Here's some outfits I put together for Tonya...

I can't say enough about the power of metallics this season. They keep your look modern and sophisticated and every shade between silver and gold are perfectly acceptable - so they are easy too! I love this look because it is very simple to wear, but looks great, no?

You know me... I just love scarves! Add them to this casual outfit for a bit of texture and flair. I am loving this casual "mom-friendly" outfit that is chic as well!

Tonya has an creative side. I wanted to reflect that in her clothing as well, but without going overboard. This bold yellow top and floral necklace do the trick, if I do say so myself.

Happy Shopping Tonya!

~~~

Interested in learning more about my wardrobe consultation services? Click here or email me at goodlifeforless @ gmail.com!

yes, please.

American Apparel at GILT FUSE... please tell me you've been there already!?!?!

(I have.)

A ton of funky basics, most at LESS THAN $20 - what a steal!







Use my invite if you need one! Hurry along now...

yea for Old Navy!

I've noticed lately that Old Navy's "Women's Plus" line is really 'bringing it' lately, so to say.

I get a lot of inquiries from women that aren't necessarily in the Plus Size sizes that some stores offer, but still find that the average XS - L offerings that other stores depend on just aren't cutting it for their bodies! Old Navy carries XXL in their women's clothing and then offers additional select items in 1X - 3X. And frankly, this can be especially helpful for women that have larger chests, because it can be hard to dress a larger chest.

I love these modern yet modest cuts, fun embellishments and bold jewel tones.

DRESSES

(from left to right: Embellished Cross Front Dress, $29.50, Applique Jersey Dress, $25, Belted Kimono Sleeve Dress, $19.99, Button Front Dress, $12.99)

TOPS

(from left to right: Ruffled V-Neck, $24.50, Smocked Ruffle Top, $24.50, Rosette Applique Top, $19.50, Pleated Chiffon Top, $24.50)

Lovely, no? Any of these tops would be great with jeans and a black tuxedo blazer - perfect for the holidays!

good LOOK for less: EXPRESS, Holly!

Today's good LOOK for less EXPRESS consult is for Holly... here's a bit about her:

I am a 26 year old who's just moved to San Francisco. I am a house manager. Most of my week is spent running errands, overseeing staff/projects, hanging with the kids, cooking and tidying up. When I look in my closet I see nothing that fits or that is appropriate for the eratic and ever changing weather in the city. Can you suggest some looks that will keep me professionally polished, yet still able to chase after kids and spilt milk while also warm?

Layering seems to be the key here along with some casual and versatile pieces that can be dressed up easily with some nice accessories... so here we go!

Isn't a trench coat mandatory if you live in San Fran... seems like it would be! I love that this one has a touch of sheen to it to snazzy it up a bit. Mixed with some basics it's smoldering, no?

Here a simple t-shirt is dressed up with some fun texture around the neckline and a simple blazer slips on and off for quick changes in the weather. I love the accessories with this one... so modern yet simple.

Again, layers that are easy to shed or add on to at any time are key. Here I paired them with some bright corduroy's that "make" the entire outfit! I love these fun and youthful accessories!

Happy Shopping Holly!

~~~

If you would like to get on the "list" for one of my good LOOK for less EXPRESS (free) consults, email me at goodlifeforless @ gmail.com - or click here for more info on my wardrobe consultation services!

my outfit: prep it up!

Dressing preppy is always a bit of fun... on the days I am not wearing all black, that is! (ha!) And JCrew has made it especially popular again this year. I've always loved a little prep in my outfit, but nothing too overboard. Today was a perfect day for lots of layers as it's super cold out and even the house feels cooler than usual. Here I went for a bit of the edgy-preppy look. I'm likin' it.

Grocery Store, Blogging

Blazer, Gap (similar)

Sweater, Limited (similar)

T-Shirt, Gap (similar)

Necklace, Banana Republic (similar)

Jeans, 7 for All Mankind (similar)

Pumps, Nine West (similar)

Truth be told, I did not wear these pumps to the grocery store because it's super cold today. BUT, if I were to interact with adults on a regular basis, I would have. Instead I just slipped on some UGGS. But for the picture, I couldn't resist. On second thought, my gold flats would have worked great too.

shopping guide: {boys to men}

Why is it that the guys in our life are the hardest to buy for? Here's some gift ideas for the boys or men, or both, in your life this holiday season!

(1)

MALIN + GOETZ Essential Kit

I've mentioned before that my brother just raves about MALIN + GOETZ products. If you have a guy that's into skincare... this starter kit would be perfect to discover his new favorite product! (Bloomingdales, $30)

(2)

Wagner Messenger Bag, Fossil

It's no "man bag" but it is the perfect bag for your man! Great for men from college and up to serve as a laptop bag or a quick overnight bag. (Fossil, $78)

(3)

Polo Ralph Lauren, Argyle Socks

Every guy needs socks (don't let your man walk around with his toes poking out!)... why not some super snazzy ones? (Nordstrom $21, 3-pack)

(4)

Magic Wallet

My husband LOVES these wallets from JCrew... he's blown through one already. They really ARE magic? How? Try one! (JCrew, $24.50)

(5)

Orange Strap Watch, Kenneth Cole

Watches are a great investment piece that men can collect like women collect handbags. Upgrade his watch wardrobe with this snazzy orange one. Perfect for casual weekend and summer nights (whenever those return!). (Kenneth Cole, $95)

my outfit: bold gold!

I snagged this gold necklace at an Estate Sale this past weekend (my first Estate Sale btw - I think I am hooked!!). It was only a couple bucks... but I am quite smitten with it! This past weekend I was also analyzing my closet and realized that I own A LOT of black and grey. I'd like to change that with some color... but for the meantime, here's more, I guess!

Running Errands, Visiting Santa with the Kids

Gold Necklace, Estate Sale (similar)

White Tee, D6 Clothing

Cardigan, Nordstrom Rack (similar)

Belt, Gap (similar)

Jeans, Old Navy (similar)

Gold Flats, Nine West (similar)

shopping guide: {gal pals}

Who is more fun to buy for that your gal pals? Whether it's a friend you've been exchanging gifts with since third grade or a gift exchange with a group of girls. Here are some fun ideas for those "supporting" ladies in your life!

(1)

Flapperdoodle Print, "Eloise and Ramona Go Sightseeing"

Flapperdoodle is all over the internet these days... and for good reason! They are adorable little sketches and there are so many to choose from that you are bound to find one that signifies an important emotion or event in your life! Browse them all to find the perfect sketch for your bestie! (Etsy, 8 x 10 print, $10)

(2)

Lug Natural Carryall

Are you a bag lady? Do you have a friend that is? You know, the gal that always has an entourage of supplies and "stuff". I totally am! I love to have all my STUFF with me. This is a perfect bag for that and it has a drawstring enclosure on top! It would make a great knitting or sewing bag for the crafty lady too! (Coquese, $69) [As a sponsor of my blog, Coquese is offering great discounts to good life for less readers... check out the details here for up to 30% off your order!)]

(3)

"Low Tops Pink on Aqua Blue" Print

For the fun and funky gal of the group! I love this fun print... it would add pizazz to any ladies dressing area or bedroom! (Etsy, John W Golden, $20) [ps, this seller is having a great BOGO sale right now!]

(4)

Metallic Tyvek Bags

I am going absolutely NUTS for these bags! I really am ONLY using reusable bags lately... you would be hard pressed to find a plastic bag in this house. These are way more stylish than the blue Meijer bags I tote all over AND, bonus, they are machine washable. I'll take about 10 in gold, thankyouverymuch. (Abitare Shop, $20)

(5)

Kate Spade Par Avion Cosmetic Bag

If you want bang for your buck, go with a great brand on a small scale. This cosmetic bag is a great example. I did KS cosmetic bags for the ladies in my life a few years ago and they were a wild success. I'm sure your gal pals will feel the same! (Kate Spade, $50)

good LOOK for less: Katie, actress & vocal-coach!

Recently I had the super fun opportunity of giving Katie a wardrobe consultation! She and her sister are fans of the blog and her sister bought her the Overhaul Package as a birthday gift. What a gal, huh? Here's a bit about Katie:

I have four children (8,6,5,1) and not much time to shop for myself. I love beautiful clothing and looking pulled together but it's just been a long time since I've been able to spend the time focusing on any of that. When time is short, I often reach for what is most comfortable in my closet. And it's usually quite unattractive. It's a terrible habit. So I recently got rid of more than HALF of the contents of my closet just so that I won't be tempted to reach in and pull out something that I *know* makes me look wretched. I need a wardrobe that's a sophisticated casual. I'm an actress and acting/vocal coach as well as a mom. I love the smokey greys and browns and jewel colors of the season. Blue is my favorite color. I'm loving all the gold/silver metallics I'm seeing pop up with Christmas around the corner. I want to look like a sexy 36 year old woman who's stylish and comfortable, not a teenager and not a frump.

I absolutely LOVED Katie's little note (there was more, but that's just between her and I!) because, reality check, aren't A LOT of us in this same boat! Dressing in your 30's and into 40's is tricky, because most stores are targeted at the SUPER young (F21, American Eagle, Old Navy, etc) or a more conservative set (JCrew, Ann Taylor, Banana Republic, etc) - and it takes some work and editing to find the BEST of BOTH fashion worlds and achieve a youthful yet conservative look. No?

Not to get on my soapbox here, but that is really the look I try to achieve for myself as well as others. A cross between trendy & conservative and high-end & low-end (as it is appropriate). To say the least it takes lots of mixing and matching!

Enough of that... let's dig in here. Here's a peak at Katie's shopping list. She had a budget of $1,000 that she was intending to spend over a couple months to grow her wardrobe. With that budget I was able to compile 27 new wardrobe pieces and 15 new outfits! (click photo below for full shopping list details)


Here's a peak at a few of the outfits:

Katie mentioned she liked neutrals like grey and metallics. This season, those are two perfect groups to pair together. With a simple jacket and accessories this is an easy outfit to pull on in the morning and looks great!

Neutrals are anything but boring when well accessorized! I absolutely adore the deep purple top and a similar shade in the shoes with the classic wool jacket. Perfect for this time of year!

For a dressier look, a simple and flowy dress with a nice belted center is flattering and easy to throw on for any occasion!

Happy Shopping Katie!

~~~

Interested in learning more about my wardrobe consultation services? Click here or email me at goodlifeforless @ gmail.com!

Friday Eye Candy: Sequins

It never fails... this time of year I crave sequins. And I'm not all that "flashy" of a person. But any of these I would snap up in a minute!

(for shopping details... check out my Stylebook at ShopStyle)

my outfit: cozy grey sweater!

I've mentioned my love for this sweater here on the blog a few times... (here and here) so it's about time you see it in person, huh? I love that I can throw it over anything and it's warm and cozy and easy to move around in. Lately the low, deep pockets have been perfect to stuff with tissue as I chase my snot-nose kids around (such is this time of year). I also can't get enough of these destroyed skinny jeans. They have a bit of stretch and a hip yet relaxed feel to them that makes me want to wear them everyday! I just got them back from the tailor (got them hemmed) and they are just perfect with flats too.

Hanging out with the kids, Lunch with my Brother & Mom

Sweater, Forever 21

White Tee, J Crew

Bird Necklace, Forever 21

Jeans, Gap

Boots, Nine West

shopping guide: {read with me}

Nothing is a better gift than a book. Books are the perfect gift for the person that has everything. They last forever and there are always new ones (and old ones!) to discover. Today I have a mix of fun new and new-again books for anyone on your shopping list.

(1)

The Sartorialist, Scott Schuman

The man of the hour (0r longer) when it comes to street style and modern fashion. This book is based on his wildly popular blog and is great for the male or female fashion conscious in your life. (Barney's $28)

(2)

Mastering the Art of French Cooking, Julia Child

The book that inspired "Julie and Julia" is a great gift for the culinates among you. If they love food and a good challenge in the kitchen... this book is for them! (Bed, Bath & Beyond, $39.99)

(3)

How to be a Gentleman

Great for any male college guys or bachelors just starting life on their own. Brook's Brothers offers a whole series on living a "gentlemanly" life. (Brooks Brothers, $28)

(4)

This is Paris, M. Sasek

There are several "This is..." books for all different cities around the world. I particularly love this one because one of my major life goals is to bring my kids to Paris (while they are still kids... and then maybe again when they are a bit older too). I love the idea of introducing my kids to new cultures and ideas and this book series is perfect for that. (Kitson, $17.95)

(5)

Sense and Sensibility, Jane Austen

The new clothbound classics by Penguin are hot, hot, hot this season! This book (and other classics with equally amazing covers) is on my Christmas wish list... well all the newly designed Penguin classics are really! This is a great gift for the curator or classic lover in your life! (Anthropologie, $20)

(6)

The Gospel According to Coco Chanel, Karen Karbo

For the Parisienne lady in your life (young or old) this fun book is the best gift! Best paired with a divine bottle of No. 5 and a Paris postcard... (Anthropologie, $19.95)

good LOOK for less: EXPRESS, Chelsea!

Chelsea emailed me recently about a challenge she is having with her wardrobe... here's a bit of her note:

I am a 25 year old and I work in Sales/Promotions for a large media company in Florida. I spend most of my work week behind a desk and I have to wear business casual attire Monday through Friday. I feel like everytime I open my closet all I see is work appropriate attire and I need more outfits I can transition from work into weekend attire for date nights, girls nights out, or just a day of shopping. I would consider my style to be trendy and classy chic. I love dressing up outfits with heels and accessories and I love prints!

Here I worked to compile three outfits for Chelsea that would be appropriate for work, but that are also jazzed up a bit so that they would be appropriate for socializing as well.

I absolutely adore this outfit for a casual Friday or shopping or lunching with gal pals on the weekend. If jeans aren't suitable for the office (even on a Friday), simply swap the jeans for a pair of cropped tan tweed trousers or the like.

Take a deep breathe and be calm before criticizing the "jumper" featured below. I've said it before and I'll say it again... a jumper is just a dress with pant legs. Really, it is. This one is flowy to hide curves (if need be) and paired with a belt and a cardigan it is perfectly acceptable for work. Then when the sun goes down... the cardigan comes off (if you prefer to show some shoulder!) and you are ready for a girl's night out or a hot date - no problem!

Keep in mind that Chelsea is in Florida. So this outfit is perfect with or without hosiery. If you live in a cooler climate, simply add black tights and a black blazer and you are set to go! It's a great outfit for the office and drinks afterward.

Happy Shopping Chelsea!

~~~

If you would like to get on the "list" for one of my good LOOK for less EXPRESS (free) consults, email me at goodlifeforless @ gmail.com - or click here for more info on my wardrobe consultation services!

my outfit: SNOW DAY!

We FINALLY got some snow here... December 4 is quite late in the year for a first snow! But when it came, it came with a vengeance! We got about a foot of snow in less than 24 hours - so of course there was no school and lots of playing!

I knew I would need an outfit that was comfy and warm! I love this kimono sweater for days just like this, it's oversized and cozy with a touch of chic too! And leggings are my go-to staple this season. They are comfy and black conveniently hides any unwanted curves. When I wear these my mantra is "I just worked out. I just worked out. I just worked out." Although if I had a body like my pilates instructor, my mantra would be "Oh yeah, I'm hot, oh yeah." So I am getting there... not perfect though!




Can you believe all that snow?

Snow day in with the kids, baking, play & out to dinner with the family.

Black Turtleneck Top, Gap

White Kimono Sweater, Banana Republic

Key Necklace, Forever 21

Black Leggings, Gap Body

Ugg Boots, Nordstrom