my outfit: blue and gold, for the win!

It's a darn good thing I have a blog... wanna know why?  I wore this outfit antiquing with a friend recently... it was (of course) freezing cold and so we popped in and out of stores all morning (scoring NO real finds - ugh, hate when that happens!) and I didn't take my coat off!  No one even saw this outfit except me and my husband.  So here you have it world... what I wore antiquing:

Rocking the blogger bun again... I just love this style.  It takes literally two minutes to whip up and my hair is done and off my face all day.  Feels so good.

How was your weekend ladies? Any fun shopping or treasure finding? I will say that I found two vintage scarves (something that was on my wish list) that were both only $3 - can't beat that!  And a few more license plates - one's we don't have yet! - for my sons collection.

Stay tuned tomorrow... I took about half of this outfit and kept it and switched the other half up for date night with my husband.  I'll post those looks tomorrow!

Details:

Cardigan, Gap (similar)

Cowl Top, JCrew (similar)

Belt, Gap (similar)

Skinny Jeans, Gap (similar)

Boots, MICHAEL Michael Kors (similar)

Earrings, courtesy of FriedaSophie Jewelry

putting it together... floral top

As a follow up series from my recent e-book launch I will be featuring individual items from the 50 things that every woman must own... and giving you even more ideas on how to incorporate these items into your wardrobe.

Many of you that bought the e-book should find this especially helpful...  since the e-book didn't include shopping links for certain pieces (more just simple examples of each of the 50 items) you will now have a resource for buying these items if you desire to add them to your wardrobe.  If you already own items that fit many or all of the 50 things, then here you will find ideas on how to incorporate these items into your wardrobe in fun and fresh ways.

If you didn't buy the e-book 50 things that every woman must own... well, you are going to want to in order to play along with us!  I won't be giving away all of the secrets that the book contains, so don't be left out!

~~~

Today we are going to 'put it all together' with item #16... the floral top.  Think hip and modern when you think of florals... not boring and "old"... here are some fun outfits for winter to spring!

(above: jeans, earrings, top, shoes, jacket, purse)

(above: sunglasses, pencil skirt, top, boots, jacket, purse)

(above: clutch, jeans, top, ring, jacket, clogs)

~~~

Don't forget to check out the e-book now for tons more wardrobe inspiration!

Click here to buy ------->                          

ps, if you are pregnant or know someone that is... check out maternity monday at good tots for super fun outfit ideas today!

new for spring... Fossil.

As new styles and goods are rolled out at my most favorite retailers for spring... I'll be updating you all!  So far we have peeped out Old Navy, Gap and LOFT.

Today I have got Fossil on tap for you... and their spring line is TO DIE FOR!  It's 100% up my alley... there is not much in their recent catalog that I wasn't absolutely fawning over.  I am quite obsessed with the classics lately (um, my e-book ring a bell?) and I just love their modern yet vintage-y take on several classics.

Here's my picks:

(blazer, heels, striped sweater, messenger bag, cargos, cardigan, bracelet)

And if these individual pieces don't have you swooning yet... here are some styled pictures I snagged from their website (similar to the photos in the catalog if you receive that in the mail - which I highly suggest!)... I am IN LOVE!

It is officially my goal to dress in "Fossil" style this spring!!  Note to self: recreate EACH of these outfits!  Stat!

ps, don't forget to enter the Bergdorf Goodman Polyvore contest this weekend!

what to wear: weekend!

Miracle of miracles, my husband and I actually have a sitter this weekend for a little date-night. It's been way to long, so I am excited to get out of the house and dine where chicken nuggets are not on the menu.

I just snagged this faux fur coat from Urban Outfitters... it was $148 on sale for $19.99 (plus I had a 10% off coupon!). Score! I plan to pair it simply with a warm turtleneck, some bold accessories and skinny jeans.  It will be a perfect outfit for keeping warm and looking good... it's supposed to snow all weekend!

What are your weekend plans?

(necklace, jeans, sweater, boots, jacket, clutch)

the "it" list... January 28, 2011!

Happy Friday and welcome back to another endlessly inspiring IT list... there is truly something for everyone here, so get clicking!

• rose a la mode is on vacation at the beach... and of course looking ever so stylish while there!  I love this outfit... what I wouldn't give to be walking on the beach! (get more of rose a la mode on twitter!)
• a spot of whimsy is having a little celebration over on her blog and is giving away a one-year subscription to either martha stewart living or real simple... head on over to enter.  These are definitely two of my most favorite glossies! (get more of a spot of whimsy on twitter!)
• much to my delight reorganized her pantry using ball jars. Swoon!  Vintage inspired organization at it's best!
• merci blah blah looks fabulous (as always, but especially) in this breton strip top... hello gorgeous long skirt!
• capital barbie is embracing scalloping in fashion... it's so fun and feminine, it's hard not to be drawn to it. I love these red scalloped pumps! (get more of capital barbie on twitter!)
• sweetie pie style always brings the best inspiration on a monday morning... this jade-like chain necklace had me at hello.  (get more of sweetie pie style on twitter!)
• good life for less launched a fabulous e-book... "50 things every woman must own..." They are selling like hot-cakes, get your copy now! (get more of good life for less on twitter!)
• a delightful design just started a fun new series called "ask abby" - check out this week's question or submit a question about interior design yourself! (get more of a delightful design on twitter!)
• rosy + tart is giving away a $25 giftcard to modcloth.  Hello spring shopping!  Enter the giveaway and check out her spring picks right away! (get more of rosy + tart on twitter!)
• undeniable style is paying homage to style icon jane birkin.  It's no wonder this lovely lady has one of the most coveted handbags named after her! (get more of undeniable style on twitter!)
• good tots starts a weekly series featuring etsy sellers that carry fun goods for kids... this week's featured seller sells the most adorable Valentine's heart confetti. Must have!
• the hillside home is pulling together inspiration for her great room. I am loving the sophisticated yet cozy blue color she has chosen for her wall.  Check out the whole inspiration on her blog!
• a fashion fixation pulls together a very simple but very stylish outfit for a road-trip. I love the use of a belt here! (get more of a fashion fixation on twitter!)
• yams designs delivers big time inspiration this week... all in black and white (remember last week it was technicolor?).  You have just got to see what she has pulled together! (get more of yams designs on twitter!)
• one hundred inspirations is definitely thinking spring this week... they recreate this fun whitney port look for less than $85!  What a deal!

the IT list is published weekly by jill of the good life for less... for more information on how you can be involved... click here!

got style? show me!

I just LOVE these fun polyvore challenges... today's challenge is to dress the icon of chic, Bergdorf Goodman's Fashion Director Linda Fargo, for New York Fashion Week. Using pieces from Linda's closet, style a look that's both warm and fabulous for her to wear front row in the tents at Lincoln Center. Linda will choose one winner to attend a runway fashion show with her and receive a $2,500 Bergdorf Goodman gift card, a hair and make-up re-style and a private personal shopping experience. Up to $1,000 will be provided for the winner's travel expenses. How gorgeous is she?

Style away... I know I can't wait to get started! Contest closes on Monday... so hurry up!


Get your own Mini Editor from Polyvore

my outfit: seeing blue.

Every time I pair this chambray top with jeans I get comments on how I am wearing "denim on denim" (both good and bad comments, mind you...) but chambray is chambray, not denim.  It's blue like denim, sure... but it's very different texture and weave.  

But I suppose that is neither here nor there... fabric is fabric.  It is blue on blue. I'll settle for that.  And how about this ONE lone baby blue shipping crate nestled between a sea of beige crates?  I love it.

This outfit is actually inspired by a Jenna Lyons look that I saw on The Sartorialist (here)... have you seen it? She was wearing a chambray top, skinny jeans and black pumps.  But since it's darrrrrn cold here... this is my winter version.  I love this outfit.

Happy Thursday ~ that mean it's Friday tomorrow!

Details:

Infinity Scarf, Urban Outfitters (similar)

Jacket, courtesy of Tulle - it's on sale!

Chambray Top, Old Navy (similar)

Jeans, Gap (similar)

Boots, Nine West (similar)

Earrings, courtesy of Towne & Reese

Nail Polish (a few of you have asked...), Hot Cocoa by Essie (similar)

personal style, defined: masculine!

Welcome back to another installment of personal style, defined.  This series is all about finding and exploring our own personal styles in fashion and at home.  Here on good life for less I explore fashion... then pop over to Jackie's blog, Sweetie Pie Style to see her inspiration!

Today we are exploring the "masculine" style... menswear inspired looks have been popular over the last few years... its a fun style and I just LOVE the looks I pulled together for today!  Read on for inspiration of the masculine variety... then head on over to check out Sweetie Pie Style's masculine rooms.

I love the mix of masculine pieces with a touch of feminine flair... it lends itself to a certain practicality.  Let's take a look!

I love this look... it reminds me of Ellen, who rocks the menswear inspired look so well.  This would be a great Saturday afternoon outfit.

(above: necklace, jeans, belt, top, blazer, shoes)

A boyfriend cardigan, driving mocs and a plaid scarf is a simple look that hints at masculinity but still shows off your style and shape (plus, it never hurts to show a little ankle!).

(above: earrings, scarf, pants, top, clutch, cardigan, shoes)

Pinstripe pants, glasses and a large watch say "I'm as confident as a man" in the boardroom but done right, can still show that you are a lady through and through.

(above: bag, trousers, top, watch, glasses, necklace, shoes)

So what do you think... do you like to incorporate a bit of "masculine" style into your wardrobe? Do you already? 

check it out!

I'm over at Rose a la Mode this evening... spilling secrets about my feelings on drugstore make-up and why I deem 2011 the year of the "shoe"!  Check it out!

Also, if you don't read Rose a la Mode on a regular basis... you should. I love her simple style and gorgeous photos!

my outfit: I solemnly swear...

My new goal: better outfit pictures.  Starting NOW.  2011 is going to rock and quite frankly... I need to start acting like it, right?  No more boring pictures in my boring hallway.  I promise.

So... formal dining room (well, as "formal" as I get...) meet my readers... readers meet my formal dining room.  Next up I'll do some outside pictures and then further brainstorm on creative photo shoot locations. K? K.

I'll admit... I'm a little "hung over" after releasing the e-book.  It was a huge creative push and now I'm deflated like a balloon.  So I'll try for two posts today... but I'm not making any promises.  You understand, don't you lovelies?

While I'm on the subject... THANK YOU, THANK YOU, THANK YOU!!! My readers rock and the launch of the e-book was a huge success.  If you haven't snagged one yet - do so! You won't be disappointed!

On to the outfit... shall we? I just LOVE this swing-y cardigan with extra deep pockets.  It's very feminine and flattering without being TOO much like a long cardigan could be if it wasn't careful.

And this extra long necklace I just tied lanyard style for something a little fun... and it's well, fun. Huh?

Details:

Cardigan, courtesy of KUTE clothes

Top, Gap (similar and very cute!)

Necklace, gift bought at TJMaxx (similar)

Jeans, Forever 21 (similar)

Boots, Nine West (similar)

it's here: 50 things every woman must own!

As I "teased" earlier this week, I am incredibly excited to announce the release of my first e-book!

THE FIFTY THINGS!!

This e-book started as an inspiration for myself as I desired to depend more upon timeless classics in my wardrobe than flash-in-the-pan trends. Trends are fun and definitely have a place in our personal style and in our closets. However, the items featured here are staples to your style and wardobe that will last and inspire for years to come. Take some time to peruse the fifty pages and be inspired. The items featured are just examples of what these pieces may look like in your own wardrobe... use them as inspiration and then find something that you absolutely love in its place. You may already own many of the 50 things, have fun finding new ways to wear them! Or, like me, you may still be finding the perfect pieces to round out your simple and classic wardrobe... enjoy!  (for a peek inside the book... click here!)


Click here to buy ------->                          

my outfit: au naturale!

I'm sure a lot of you gals can relate... but ever since I had my second child (not my first, for what reason I do not know) my hair has completely changed.  After the first it fell out (per the usual) but then went back to normal.  But with the second it kind of hasn't stopped falling out and regrowing and falling out and regrowing.  My hair dresser tells me every time she does my hair that it's getting curlier... curlier and curlier.  At first I didn't believe her, but it's true.  I've noticed it for real.

And while some days I purposely make it curlier, I usually try to straighten it.  But on this particular day I had to let it air dry because the house and kids were out.of.control. and voila... I put some product in it and fluffed it.  These are natural waves peeps.  I know, I was impressed too.

Anyway... enough of that.

We had major cabin fever on Saturday - it was just SO cold and snowy.  So Sunday we spent galivanting all around town.  Now we are ready to bear down for another cold (but not AS cold) and snowy week.  How was your weekend?

Details:

Cardigan, Target (similar)

White Top, Forever 21 (similar)

Jeans, Gap (similar)

Wedges, Target (similar)

Necklace, Forever 21 (similar)

Cuff Bracelet, Charlotte Russe (similar)

inspired by...

I always like to bring you all some outfit inspiration on a Monday morning... a fresh week of outfits and a fresh week of "to-do's"... it's just what the doctor ordered!

Lately I have been drawn to neutrals, lots of black and brown, anything understated and skinny jeans, skinny jeans, skinny jeans. (While I love the flares for spring I feel like skinnies keep me warmer this winter... hmmmm....)  These outfits are EXACTLY what I want to wear this week - I'll be brainstorming how I can recreate all of these looks soon...

 (above: clutch, jeans, top, shoes, earrings, jacket)

(above: jeans, top, wedges, scarf, ring)

(above: watch, jeans, cape, flats, sweater)

What do you find yourself most drawn to and inspired by lately? 

teaser time...

I have mentioned a few times that I have a really fun e-book in the works for 2011! And you know me, I don't tell stories out of school...

Announcing...

This e-book focuses on fifty classic and simple wardrobe items that every woman must own for a well-rounded wardrobe. There are tips and tricks on how to choose the individual items and how to style them as well.

Also, how cute is the illustration on the cover? I'm loving it... it's the work of the talented Linda from Little Tin Soldier!

What's that you say...  you would love a peek inside? Well, since you asked so nicely!

I'm planning on launching it TUESDAY!  So check back then to buy it and learn more about the inspiration for the e-book!

new for spring... LOFT.

Last Saturday I brought you a few new items from Old Navy... and earlier this week, Gap.  Today I peeped out the new spring stock at LOFT and man, it's hot!  It's full of fun and bold colors and also one of the biggest new trends... color blocking!  Such fun pieces for spring! (or for now, with some extra layers for warmth!).

I'll be stuck inside most of the weekend - it's super cold here - so what better to do than shop online?  Here are just a few of the offerings!

(orange top, seafoam skirt, yellow & grey top, jeans, orange & brown top)

Happy Saturday!

what to wear: weekend!

Yay... it's just hours until the weekend is finally here and boy am I ready for it! It's supposed to be really cold this weekend, but I have plenty of stuff around the house to keep me busy, so hopefully I won't have to venture out too much. What is on your agenda this weekend? Anything fun?

Whatever you do... keep warm! I'll likely be sporting something very simple and cozy like this all weekend!

(leggings, top, mittens, scarf, bag, boots)

the "it" list... January 21, 2011!

Happy Friday everyone!  Time to celebrate the weekend with some inspiration... take some time to browse these amazing blogs today or this weekend!

• yams designs goes full on with technicolor inspiration all week long... I especially love Tuesday's post, but pop by her blog and your winter blues will melt away! (get more of yams designs on twitter!)
• a fashion fixation is set for spring... this outfit is PERFECT for the current weather, but still so fresh and fun! (get more of a fashion fixation on twitter!)
• undeniable style just bought some lovely sketches for her home... I am absolutely in love with this ballet inspired sketch! (get more of undeniable style on twitter!)
• capital barbie is loving lace for spring... me too! It's so flirty and feminine... check out her top picks! (get more capital barbie on twitter!)
• sweetie pie style just updated her vintage shop, one sweet find, with this mirrored vanity tray! I am SO in love... hurry and snatch this sweet find up! (get more of sweetie pie style on twitter!)
• 100 inspirations recreates this simple and chic Nikki Hilton look for under $100 - score!
• a spot of whimsy is featuring a wintry mix of inspiration that is sure to have you falling back in love with snow as if it were the first time... if just for a bit, at least! (get more of a spot of whimsy on twitter!)
• good tots found these super cool and modern cribs in fun colors for less than $400 - what a steal! almost makes me want to have another little babe, almost.  
• much to my delight brings us to mediterranean bliss with this recipe for hummus, yum!  one of my favorite snacks of all time, you must check this out!
• the hillside home lives in sunny california, lucky gal... at least she brings us the feel of summer wrapped up in this one adorable dress!
• rosy + tart has me drooling with these nutella and chocolate chip cookies!  you absolutely must pop over and check out this recipe... so yum! (get more of rosy + tart on twitter!)
• a delightful design scopes out seven great online resources for inexpensive art!  how resourceful... I just love these options! (get more of a delightful design on twitter!)
• merci blah blah can accessorize like no one's business, it IS her business.  I just love, love it all.  Go check out her skills!
• good life for less is participating in a fun contest on her blog featuring polyvore and Rebecca Minkoff's Spring 2011 collection.  Go have fun and enter yourself to win a fabulous RM clutch! (get more good life for less on twitter!)

the IT list is published weekly by jill of the good life for less... for more information on how you can be involved... click here!

wanna have some fun?

When I first started blogging, one of my favorite things to do was to create fun and inspiring looks on polyvore... for some reason along the way I became less active at polyvore in the past year.  But lately, it's a different story. I love popping over there for inspiration or to participate in their fun style challenges.

Today I am bringing one of their awesome contests right to this blog - so you can join in the fun!  Simply create looks in the mini-editor incorporating Rebecca Minkoff's new clutch the "Dee" and also her entire new Spring 2011 Collection.

For every set you make you will be entered to win the clutch!  How fun!  Now mix and match away... I know I can't wait to get started!


Get your own Mini Editor from Polyvore

If you are not familiar with polyvore just grab items from the bottom row and drag them into your "look" - when you are done click "enter contest".  To check out the sets that other's have made, click "gallery".  Have fun and good luck!

my outfit: blue brown green brown blue...

Blue, brown, green, brown, blue... got that? Here's the run down:

Blue cardigan.
Brown blazer.
Green top.
Brown boots.
Blue jeans.

I do believe that my layering prowess (or lack thereof...) has reached new heights this winter.  I go in my closet and basically come out when I can't move my arms any more.  Ha, I kid. I can still move my arms!

Speaking of... a lot of you ask when I layer (like the blazer/jean jacket duo from last week) if it gets tight on my arms, shoulders, etc. And the answer to that is NO. I mean, well, sometimes, but if it's too tight I change it up.  So that means I choose thinner layers for underneath and make sure that my top layers are a little roomier.  You know like the bulky sweater or the snug sweater you own... those get paired with the looser blazer or snugger jacket... respectively.  If I can't be comfortable in an outfit I don't wear it.

Basically there are a couple of ways you can go with this many layers... you can be all fancy dancy and carefully choose textures, patterns and solids that all sing and dance together.  Or you can just go all in the same color group and call it good.  Guess which way I went? I'm no pro, I just like to stay warm.

What's new people? Are you surviving the winter doldrums? I'm dying over here... pass the vitamin D.

Details:
Earrings, courtesy of FriedaSophie - check out their amazing offerings!
Blazer, Gap (similar)
Cardigan, Gap (similar)
Top, JCrew (similar)
Jeans, Gap (similar)
Boots, MICHAEL Michael Kors (similar)
Bracelet, courtesy of Towne & Reese