summer = all stripes… all the time!

There is something about summer that makes all stripes all the time perfectly acceptable - and not only acceptable but down right crave worthy.  Striped shoes and dresses and bathing suits and more. Don't even bother trying to hold back… it's summer!  I say go for it with your favorite striped pieces all summer long.

1. striped blazer 2. striped scarf 3. striped shift dress 4. striped rash guard swim top 5. striped flip flops 6. striped cardigan 7. striped iphone case 8. striped watch 9. striped swim top & bottom 10. striped sweater 11. striped zip pouch 12. striped shorts 13. striped tote 14. striped tank 15. striped slip-on sandals

see you around...

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what's your summer sunglass style?

What is your summer sunglass style? I think one simple pair of sunglasses can totally set the tone for any outfit… aren't these fun outfits proof?

get the looks:

classic: shorts, tee, clutch, flip flops, sunglasses

modern: dress, clutch, earrings, sandals, sunglasses

boho: top, shorts, bracelet, shoes, sunglasses (love these, they are a cheaper alternative to these sunglasses!)

top coats!

Oh winter is just knocking on our door here in the mid-west... can you feel it? I've pulled out the winter coats a few times already, but I will admit I am still trying to avoid them.  Winter coats of course are necessary to those of us living in the Northern part of the country for quite a few months of the year (unfortunately)... but having a few beautiful options on hand for the winter make the transition much more bearable.  I like to have a mix of dressier and casual options on hand as well as a good puffer (a necessary evil...).

I scoured my favorite retailers to see what they have on hand this season... and I think you are going to like what I found.  Texture, a little color here and there and lots of sophistication can be found here with all these winter coats.  Tell me, are you looking to buy a new coat or two this season? What styles are you loving?

top row, from left: fur trimmed anorak (25% off!), short puffer (25% off!), duffel coat (60% off!), burgundy car coat

middle row, from left: bright blue, military inspired (25% OFF!), short moto jacket (25% off!), leather sleeves

bottom row from left: navy fur lined, color blocked (25% off!), camel, plaid

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Attention Local Ladies!!!! Check out my Facebook page mid-morning today to enter to win a $100 gift card to the new H&M at Woodland Mall and an opportunity to shop before the store opens to the public with me on Thursday, October, 31!!!

~~~

see you around...

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fall wish list: big cozy sweater!

I've got a few things on my personal wish list for fall... and a big cozy white sweater is one of them! I could see wearing one of these gorgeous options with jeans and leggings and boots all fall and winter.  You know? I already own this white sweater... but I would love one that is bulkier and a little more oversized.  So I took to the internet to see what I could find...

... now to choose!

one, two, three, four, five, six, seven, eight

see you around...

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20 gorgeous fall handbags!

What is your handbag style? Printed? Solid? Leather? Tote? Satchel? Clutch? Cross-body? Do tell!

If there is any one item in my closet that I have the most fun buying it has to be handbags.  I like to make investments in gorgeous classic bags that I know I will love for years to come or experiment in patterns and colors when I can find a great deal that I know I will have fun carrying or accessorizing with my outfit.

I'm partial to leather when shopping for a handbag, especially if I can find it for a great price... but there are plenty of non-leather handbags as well that are fabulous as well!  Here I rounded up 20 fall handbags starting at only $68 and reaching all price points.  Any of these little pretties would make a great addition to your closet (or mine!) this fall, don't you think?

top row, from left: leopard, burgundy, grey, navy

2nd row, from left: camel, black/white two-tone, pink, caramel

3rd row, from left: black/grey with tassel, black with gold, camel/cream two-tone, black tote

4th row, from left: red, camel, leopard, black

bottom row, from left: tweed/black two-tone, purple, caramel studded, grey/burgundy tote

see you around...

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over the top!

Is there one or two types of clothing that you have no problem keeping properly stocked in your closet? For me personally I always have plenty of shoes, denim and jackets/blazers on hand.  Tops however, those are another story!  I have trouble keeping tops on hand for some reason. I like a good balance of the easy wash and wear tops and pretty blouses.

While reviewing my closet recently I realized that I was running low on tops that fit the bill.  After cleaning out my closet this summer and sending some older pieces to Goodwill and the consignment shop this area of my closet could use a boost.  So today I rounded up some great tops for fall that I would love to add to my closet!  Check them out below...

And then let me know, do you have any holes in your close that are harder to fill than others?

top row, from left: natural henley, chevron blouse, dotted oxford

middle row, from left: textured raglan, black blouse, tuxedo style oxford

bottom row, from left: printed tunic, linen tee with shoulder detail, green crepe henley

Do you have a favorite (or three) here? I've got some shopping to do!

see you around...

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it's back to boots season! (the fall boot report)

Boot season is almost here and to make sure you are ready for boot season I rounded up the best of the best for fall right here just for you.  I look forward to bringing out my boots each and every fall and this year I will be bringing out my tall and ankle boots that I invested in last year and also hopefully invest in a new pair or two as well.

Classic boot styles like the tall riding boot are back this season again... so if you invested in a pair last year, bring those out again! Or if you still need a pair now is the time to invest in a pair, remember classic styles like a riding boot will last several seasons so it's worth spending a little more money on them!  Ankle boots are back as well with new silhouettes and styles... I wore ankle boots A LOT last season and am excited to see them back.  I'm really loving ankle boots in subtle fall colors like grey and burgundy.

What boot styles are you most excited about this season? 

1. burgundy ankle wedge boot 2. suede ankle wrap boot 3. grey ankle boots 4. black heeled ankle boot

5. black riding boot 6. camel leather low heeled boot 7. black riding boot with ankle wrap 8. brown riding boot

see you around...

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how to style a camo jacket for fall!

Welcome back from a nice long weekend... I hope you enjoyed yours! Mine was quite lazy... sleeping in, lounging and general relaxation before we dive into an action packed back to school week here! How was your weekend?

I'm so excited to dive into fall fashion around here... which we have been doing a little of from time to time, but now that my kids are back in school I am in full on fall mode (apple pie anyone?).  The temps are a still a little warm but the nights and evenings are cool. September is one of the best months ever... wouldn't you agree?

Last fall I snagged a camo jacket from Zara (seen here) which was going out on a limb a bit for me style-wise.  And I am glad I did as it's a fun print that is still enjoying it's time in the spotlight.  At first glance camo can seem to be a more masculine print, which is fine if you are enjoying boy-inspired style - which is also having a moment in the spotlight this fall. But here I tried to find the perfect balance between femininity and the camo print with two looks for fall that you will love!

(above: boots, vest, top, purse, ponte leggings, earrings)

(above: jacket - only $35 LOVE!, tee, sunglasses, boots, bracelet, boyfriend jeans)

see you around...

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the striped report!

Okay, fess up. Who's still over the top hooked on stripes? If your hand was raised, know that you are in good company, as mine is raised as well.

I just can't stop loving stripes. Can't and won't. It seems like every time I pop into a store there is a new iteration on the stripe just waiting for me to ogle it. In order to feed this long-time addiction I thought I would take a peek at what's new for stripes these days.

If you are addicted like me, this should feed your addiction just fine. I know it did mine!

(above: slouchy top, scarf, espadrilles, tote, blazer - also available in white!, earrings)

(above: dress, tee, bathing suit, bracelet, flats)

Are there any new striped pieces you are looking to add to your closet soon? That slouchy tee and those flats are REALLY calling my name... well all of it is really!

see you around...

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10 summer sandals you will (flip) for!

Between sunny days, warmer temps, the kids being out of school and already having spent an inordinate amount of time at the pool there is no doubt that summer is in full swing in these parts.  I am loving the longer days, the relaxed schedule and of course the simple and casual style that comes with the season.  Tees, tanks, shorts and sun dresses are on constant repeat and while I feel like my summer wardrobe is complete, there is no denying that there is always room for another pair of sandals in the closet.

Not only are sandals easy and comfortable to wear, but they also completely embody the mood of the season. With their variety in color, texture, silhouette and materials, they can range from simple to whimsical and everywhere in between.  In my mind, they are the key component to making summer dressing fun.

Since I never feel like sandal shopping season is over (well, unless the leaves are falling... but that is a long way off) I rounded up 10 fabulous summer sandals you will love.  And to sweeten the deal and make sure there is no summer shopping remorse... all of these beauties will only set you back $60 or less.  Now that is just my style (in more ways than one)!

1. neon & black multi strap 2. mint flip flops 3. coral Jacks (love!) 4. striped flip flops 5. gold studs

6. coral ankle strap 7. tassel ankle tied (swoon!) 8. mint & gold thong 9. black & gold toe strap 10. beaded toe strap

What is your sandal style? Are you more of a boho chic gal like #7? Or a simple but sophisticated gal like #9? Do you go for perennially classic looks like #3? Or a ultra simple flip flop like #2 or #4?

Do tell!

ps. If you have a minute today... be sure to check out the recent interview I did with fellow blogger at Wake Up Your Wardrobe!  I dished on my favorite post I've ever written, why I love blogging, tips if you are just starting out blogging and more!

see you around...

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spring accessory report!

This time of year you, me and your best friend are all stocking up on shorts, stripes, tanks and tees... but what about the finishing touches?  Here I rounded up the top trends for spring and summer that I am loving and that seem to be everywhere lately.

Keep in mind  bright colors, textures and easy of use for handbags this spring & summer... Make sure you snatch up totes for all your picnic and beach swag and on the other end of the spectrum you'll need small clutches or cross-body bags for summer evenings and to pair with your favorite sundresses.

(above: orange cross-body, blue cross-body, woven tote - SWOON!, leopard clutch, "viva" tote)

This seasons trends are all about pastels, Bling!, neon, and neutrals.  There is no need to resist bold colors and fun pieces to pair with your favorite spring and summer dresses.  Pastels bring neutrals like stripes and navy in to the season and also make sure to have some fun neutral pieces on hand to wear in between!

(above: peach/pink necklace, mint/green necklace, bling necklace, marquis hoops, neon bracelet, neon earrings, gold coral earrings, gold cuff)

Make sure you have all the necessary shoe styles on hand... beach ready sandals, a pair of classic wedges, laser cut sandals - super hot right now!, a casual pair of kicks and a bright pair of flats! 

(above: flip flops, black sandals, pink flats, wedges, sneakers)

nautical style!

Nothing says summer like a healthy dose of nautical style! Whether you are a sea (wo)man or a land lubber these styles are sure to please.  Since nautical style is such a simple and classic style, it's easy to pull off as well.  And likely with items you already own in your closet... or add a few of these fun pieces to raise the sail on this maritime style.

(above: sail jacket, striped top, knot earrings, watch, belt, rope bracelet, shorts, tote bag)

(above: anchor pocket dress, j.crew coasters - didn't know J.Crew even made coasters, love these!, sunglasses, scarf, anchor bathing suit, fouta towel, NY cap, sperry topsiders)

see you around...

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how to style printed pants! (three ways)

Last year's colored jean trend is this season's printed pants trend. They are hot, they are every where and if they are anything at all like the colored jean trend, they are here to stay.

I will be the first to admit that I have tried a few pairs on and each experience was a bit of a head-scratcher. Are these "me"? What will I wear them with? Will I wear them enough to justify the purchase?  All good questions.  Have you had the same questions?

Today I de-mystify the printed pants trend in three easy to recreate looks that will inspire you to try this new trend sometime soon! I chose to pair each pant with what are three of my very own key neutral basics like neon (surprisingly seems to go with anything), chambray and stripes.  I find that when I am working to incorporate a new trend in to my wardrobe that pairing them with my old stand-bys makes the process much easier.

I hope you enjoy these looks and are inspired to try them out yourself!

(above: pants, top, shoes, earrings, bag)

(above: pants, striped top, earrings, clutch, bracelet, shoes)

(above: jeans - obsessed with these, they are also available in shorts!, neon sweater, necklace, clutch, shoes)

see you around...

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trend alert: the garden goddess!

Whether you have a green thumb or not (I tend towards not, though I wish I did!) you can dress like a garden party goddess all summer long with a dash of florals.  I am usually not drawn to bold patterns but this floral trend has got me all a-flutter this spring and summer.

How can you deny these bold colors and textures!? Swoon!  I would pair bright and bold florals with classic basics (like these!) for an effortless spring or summer look.  Try not to overcomplicate the look and keep it super simple...

(above: necklace, skirt, dress - omg!, scarf, iPhone case, swimsuit: top & bottom, brooch)

see you around...

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color trend: pretty in peach!

Peach! Just the name reminds me of sunny days and juicy fruit.  This color is made for pairing with a killer summer tan or a fresh crop of sweet summer freckles.  It's creamy and fresh and ready to be paired with summers best colors, like neon, navy and white & black perhaps.

Depending on your skin tone and preferences... choose a hue of peach that has undertones of pink or orange to compliment your skin.  If you are feeling non-commital to peach in general you can easily just try a simple peach accessory or lipstick!

(above: earrings, shorts, bag, striped top, lipstick, sweater, bracelet, flats)

(above: sweater, belt, sandals, necklace, eyeshadow, shorts, sunglasses, jeans)

see you around...

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pep up with a healthy dose of spring!

If you are like me and spring has not yet "sprung" where you live, you likely need a healthy dose of spring flair this morning.  Our weather has been beyond, beyond miserable and while I am doing my best to "think spring" in spite of it all, it's not been easy (snow in April? twice this weekend? forget about it).  Today I just wanted to pull together beautiful and simple pieces that will renew my excitement and hope for spring (instead of my current "enough already" attitude!).  Mother nature never fails to deliver the seasons, even if she is a little late this year!

Happy Monday... 

I hope these sweet spring pieces manage to inspire you like they have me...

floral top, ribbon necklace, aqua earrings, mint sandals, coral tote, pink jeans, yellow blazer, striped scarf, eyelet dress, pink flats, orange bracelet, purple bracelet

how to style the maxi dress for spring!

As far as spring clothing goes... I have a rapidly expanding list of obsessions.  One is white (we talked about that yesterday) and one of the others is maxi dresses.  Maxi dresses are definitely not new on the block; they have been around for quite a few seasons.  But this season they are especially appealing to me with the wide selection of colors and prints and that they are insanely comfortable while looking great.

Comfort and beauty makes maxi dresses appealing but it's their versatility that makes them impossible to resist!  Here I pulled together two of my current favorites and to show-off their versatility, I styled up each dress two ways.  I love that you can wear a simple maxi dress as everyday spring and summer wear (they are the perfect grab-and-go piece for my busy mom lifestyle) or dress them up for events like church, baby showers and weddings.

(get the looks above: maxi dress, denim jacket, cork clutch, navy sandals, gold necklace, nail polish, nude wedge)

(get the looks above: mint denim jacket, earrings, nude sandals, maxi dress, scarf, bracelet, sandals)

Are you a fan of the maxi dress? I can't wait for the temps to warm so I can start wearing them!

If we haven't already... let's get social!

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white hot for spring!

One of the colors I am most excited about wearing this spring is hardly even a color.  White, white, white has got me completely obsessed lately.  White jeans, white handbags and sweet little white dresses are catching my eye left and right...

Here I styled up some of my favorite pieces to show how easy it is to wear this eye catching non-color this spring and summer.

(get the look above: white dress, navy blazer, sandals, necklace, clutch)

(get the look above: denim shorts, tunic, sandals, sunglasses, bracelet, handbag)

(get the look above: white denim, sweater, earrings, leopard flats, tote)

two-tone to love!

A spring 'trend' that is also super classic? Two-toned pieces in black and white.  Pair them with simple jeans, black trousers or your favorite bright colors for spring and you are set.  Plus, can you imagine these gorgeous pieces ever going out of style.  Not me?

Here I pulled together some great pieces under $150 (and many are even less!) that will long be classics in your wardrobe.

(above: scarf, bag, bracelet, nail polish, dress, top, shoes)

(above: clutch, pants, sweater jacket, striped top, Marc Jacobs Sunglasses, Kate Spade flats)

Are you excited about this trend for spring? Will you be snagging any two-tone pieces? 

I would love to hear!

a pop of neon!

Neon is here to stay people. And while it can be a difficult color to wear depending on your skin tone or your style... just a POP will set off your whole look and is easy for anyone to do!  First I rounded up some fun neon inspirations... from just a touch on a shoe to a whole skirt and everywhere in between. There is a neon-style for you!

image sources: skirt, scarf, shoes, bag

Here I rounded up some seriously fun neon budget finds that you are sure to love. I know that I would love to add any of these pieces to my spring and summer wardrobe (or just wear them now!).  The few neon pieces that I already own definitely get some good play time in my outfits, so a little more couldn't hurt... right?!

(above: top*, bracelet, scarf*, watch, pants, bag - LOVE!, sandals*, flats)

So are you planning on adding a pop of neon to your spring wardrobe? 

*under $25 picks!

If we haven't already... let's get social!

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