a couple of friday outfits (let’s review)

How are you this Friday evening? Hope you had a good week and can now kick off an even better weekend. So, I’ve been doing some online shopping lately (she said sheepishly). Mostly due to needing new bottoms since I lost some weight, but there have been crazy good sales on stuff that I actually wanted. I bought from Banana Republic (discussed here), Madewell (blog post here) and Target (read about it here).

Except for one pair of sneakers, I have received everything and I’m keeping it all. Read below to see why.

Madewell Linen muscle tee in grey & Puma Match Lo sneakers; Banana Republic Ruched jersey skirt in heather grey; Bar III fringe necklace (old, similar); Cara spike cuff bracelet (old); Cartier tank watch.

Let’s talk about this ruched skirt from Banana Republic. It’s flattering. And soft. It lives up to the hype. I ordered an XS and it’s a little bit big. I don’t mind it, I don’t want a second skin skirt to showcase lumps and bumps. Yet, I hope it doesn’t stretch out over time. I’m really pleased with this easy to wear skirt. It’s not a fussy skirt, you can wear it with your favorite tee or jazz it up with a blazer, leather jacket or an oversized chunky knit sweater. My favorite thing about this skirt is how good it looks with sneakers.

Madewell Plaid flannel shirt, Linen muscle tee in grey & Puma Match Lo sneakers; Banana Republic Ruched jersey skirt in heather grey; Bar III fringe necklace (old, similar); Cara spike cuff bracelet (old); Cartier tank watch.

Now, onto the Madewell plaid flannel button-down. I ordered an XS and XXS, the XS was a better fit (the XXS was tight in the back and upper sleeves). The red and grey colors of this plaid is simple and surprise, there’s a gingham check in the inner layer of the shirt so you see it on the cuffs and placket. I love this play with patterns. The back hem is lower than the front hem which is cool. The best part? Pockets! I wore it as a light jacket for my outfit today. So clever, why don’t they put pockets like this in a denim or chambray shirt? Or all the flannels? I love this.

I am totally digging these Pumas that I bought from Madewell. I don’t know why I waited to get white leather sneakers, they’re such a classic. These aren’t a blinding white, it’s a light cream or eggshell color. They are true to size (I’m an 8) and very comfortable (the leather is softened, not stiff at all). Total keeper.

9/27/15 update: Looks like the Pumas have sold out online at Madewell. If you’re interested, the whisper white pair is still available here and here (online promo code FRIENDS for 25% off until 9/28/15 & free shipping, no $ minimum).

Madewell skinny overalls & Linen muscle tee in grey; Target Adelaide height top sneakers in leopard; Bar III fringe necklace (old, similar); Cara spike cuff bracelet (old); Cartier tank watch.

Switching gears here for the Madewell skinny overalls and leopard high top sneakers from Target. Both of which were delivered today. I ordered an XS in the overalls and they fit me like a glove. Even the distressed knee falls on my knee, this is not typical with my short legs (it usually is an inch or two below my knee). I think it’s a flattering fit and I can see why they are so loved. I came across this Popsugar article where different sized women loved this pair of overalls. I remember pinning this awhile ago on my Pinterest overalls board. Great pair of overalls, they are very grown up in the fit.

So, the sneakers. How cute are they? Obviously they were made for cuffed jeans or pants. What a steal for about $17 a pair. Again, the fit is true to size and pretty comfy right out of the box. The leopard feels like nubuck, it’s nice. I didn’t know what to expect for synthetic, but I’m really pleased with this sneaker.

Madewell Plaid flannel shirt, Linen muscle tee in grey & Puma Match Lo sneakers; Banana Republic Ruched jersey skirt in heather grey; Bar III fringe necklace (old, similar); Cara spike cuff bracelet (old); Cartier tank watch; Ray Ban Light Ray sunglasses in clear/orange mirror.

So, there are a couple of outfits that are perfect for fall and beyond (with more layers of course). I am all set for the upcoming seasons.

Care to share what you’ve been eyeing or buying for fall lately? Have a great weekend. Cheers! xx

Target FTW: budget friendly sneaker dupe

By now, you may have come to realize that I love my sneakers. Of course for working out. But I’m speaking of the casual style variety. I’m so thankful for the sneaker trend that’s still going strong. The latest iteration that I find rather intriguing is the slip-on high top bootie sneakers. I first saw them in last July’s Nordstrom Anniversary Sale catalog, which featured the Vince Newlyn pair. I was hooked but I didn’t want to pay that much for a pair of sneakers, even at the Anniversary Sale price. They are really gorgeous though, it’s a great shade of grey. Here they are:

Vince Newlyn bootie sneaker in ceramic suede. Other colors available here.

So, imagine my recent delight when I spied the same style on Target’s website. In two of my favorite colors: grey and leopard. Then, I see Target is running a buy one, get one at 50% off sale for shoes (no online promo code needed and free shipping for a minimum purchase of $25). And if you have a Target card, you know you’ll get an extra 5% off your total purchase. So, instead of spending $350 for a Vince pair, you can try out this trend for about $17 for a pair of Target sneakers (assuming you go for the BOGO deal). Here they are:

Target Adelaide sneakers in grey.

I like the grey flannel look to these, it’s a great neutral color and fall material.

Target Adelaide sneakers in leopard.

Because I’m firmly in the leopard-is-a-neutral camp. These look like a party on your feet.

What do you think of this latest sneaker trend? Hope you liked my budget-friendly find. Have a great Thursday!

green scene: plaid, gingham & camo

Banana Republic multi-plaid boyfriend shirt in tigers eye green (the green plaid sold out online, but similar muted olive plaid shirt here); Madewell crop jeans & Arrowstack necklace; Target Mossimo camo flats (old, similar in a camo slip-on sneaker); Cara studded white leather bracelet (old); Cartier tank watch.

This was yesterday’s outfit. I wore my new plaid shirt that I finally received from my online Banana Republic order (discussed here). I ordered an XS and it fits me well, although it’s not a generous boyfriend or loose fit. This is exactly what I wanted. The fabric is very soft, almost gauze-like but more substantial than a wispy gauze (there are two layers sewn together in this shirt, plaid on the outside and gingham on the inside). I love the colors of this shirt, it’s a muted green for fall. How great is that peek of gingham on the rolled cuffs? I plan on wearing this shirt throughout the year, I’m going to layer it underneath sweaters, sweatshirts, cardigans, you name it as it gets cooler.

I bought the Madewell jeans this summer and I think a few sizes are still available online. I really like the higher waist of these jeans and the material is soft with a bit of stretch. I was in the car a lot yesterday and the jeans were comfortable throughout the long ride. I cuffed them to show off some bare ankles, thankfully it’s still warm enough to do that. I’m not ready for the deep freeze just yet. Or ever, ha.

Happy first day of fall everyone! xx

WINWIN with Madewell: my recent purchase

Don’t forget that Madewell’s Win/Win event ends this coming Monday night! I gave you my all-star and MVP picks of Madewell favorites that I have worn for the past year (see it here). As promised, here’s what I ordered online with code WINWIN for an additional 30% discount (remember Madewell has free shipping, no minimum dollar amount to qualify!):

Grey skinny jeans. I gave away my grey jeans since they no longer fit, so I needed a new pair. Grey goes with everything, trust me. The inseam is shorter on this pair which is good news for me, since I won’t have to get these altered.

Denim shorts. These shorts were on sale, so getting an extra 30% off was a good deal. I picked this pair because of the 5″ inseam. I’m not crazy about the fit on the model here, but let’s hope they work out since this is the only item that’s final sale.

Puma sneakers. I got these delivered by mistake from Madewell when I ordered my Vans sneakers (Madewell was cool about it too, they made it right), and I remembered the super soft leather. I was thinking of ordering these during the Win/Win promo, and so I did. A classic white pair of sneakers will go with all the things.

Plaid flannel shirt. Because fall. What sold me on this flannel was the side pockets (so you can wear it as a jacket or top layer over your tank or tee). Also, it has an inner layer of gingham check fabric so it peeks out when you roll your sleeves or you can see it on the button placket.

Skinny overalls. I’ve been wanting these skinny overalls for awhile (I loved how Madewell styled the overalls in the two Pinterest images above), but it always seemed to be excluded from past promo codes. So, I waited for this sale. My patience paid off. I hope they fit because it doesn’t seem like there’s a ton of wiggle room. I wear a size 25 in Madewell jeans, so I ordered the XS. If you want a slouchy fit, I’d order a size up from your usual. Google image Jessica Alba wearing these overalls, she’s wearing them loose and cuffed, a boyfriend fit that’s cute.

What are you ordering from the Win/Win promotion? What are eyeing? Enjoy your weekend!!

Madewell’s Win/Win Sale

One of my favorite retailers, Madewell, is having their Win/Win sale right now until this Monday night, September 21. It’s available in stores and online with code WINWIN. It’s 20% off your purchase of $100+ or 30% off your $200+ purchase. It’s rare when Madewell does a site-wide promotion like this.

I took advantage of the event last year and I picked up a lot of my wardrobe favorites (see the haul here). But, this year’s event has more exclusions than before. Namely, their leather jackets are excluded which is very unfortunate. I bought my beloved leather moto jacket in vintage merlot last year and the 30% off savings was substantial since it was expensive. The other exclusions include: Transport Totes (which must be one of their best sellers) and Transport Weekenders, Penfield, Ulla Johnson, Rivet & Thread, Chimala and The Cambridge Satchel Company. So, essentially it’s all the pricey merchandise.

Fear not, this sale is still worth it because Madewell is still selling a lot of my personal closet staples. The items have withstood many wears, packing for multiple vacations, and basically just stuff that I constantly reach for when I need some oomph to my outfits. If you don’t have these items, I’d seriously consider getting these during this promotion. And here they are (“action shots” with my old blog post images and you’ll see some overlap since they are tried and true favorites that are in constant rotation):

Panama Hat. This hat is the Madewell MVP of my wardrobe, I pack and wear it on every trip. I also wear it a ton during the summers to keep the sun off my black hair (which absorbs the sun like asphalt does, it’s crazy hot). If you color your hair, wearing a hat is great sun protection for your hair (and scalp). It’s great that Madewell offers two sizes in this hat because I have a smallish sized head and the ubiquitous J.Crew Panama hat was way too big on my little noggin.

Vans leather slip-on sneakers. The navy may still be available but if not get the other colors. Like grey, which will match with practically everything. Or, in black. The perforated leather is great for ventilation, it doesn’t get too hot or sweaty. It’s all leather construction and the price is reasonable. They were very comfortable straight out of the box and it’s so easy to slide them on and off in a hurry.

Oversized white button-down shirt. This is a classic wardrobe staple and the fit on this shirt is flawless. I think it’s due to the shirt’s side panels which is perfect for the half-tuck. It’s foolproof with this button-down and doesn’t poof out in an unflattering manner. Rather, it lays (and stays) flat and makes you appear thinner. Or, you could always wear it untucked, which is great for leggings or ponte pants. It’s also a trusty travel item because you look polished wearing this as a top, but it does double duty as a swimsuit coverup as well.

Faux shearling vest. I lived in this vest last winter. Remember how insanely frigid it was? Plus, I had a bad case of bronchitis for well over a month, so it felt good to keep my chest warm (it helped silence some of the coughing). This vest begs to be touched, it’s so cozy and soft. It is practical too because it was an easy layering piece to wear under my winter coats and jackets. Plus, you get extra pockets to store the little essentials. What I love most about this vest is that it’s a little different from most of the vests out there.

Ensign necklace. Hands down, Madewell is my absolute favorite for costume jewelry. It has such a cool boho vibe. This necklace has two dog tags, one is shiny and the other is matte. It adds just the right finishing touch to something so simple like your favorite tee or tank.

Arrowstack necklace. My gateway Madewell jewelry piece! Another MVP here because of the design, weight and the silver & gold combo (mix your metals with confidence, it looks intentional). Therefore, it goes with nearly everything. I’m still gaga over this necklace, I always have it with me wherever I go.

Blazer coat. Although it has a new name and different stock photos, this year’s version looks nearly identical to the one I purchased last year. I can’t really tell if there’s a difference or not, other than the apparent addition of spandex to this year’s blazer coat. But the general length and the silhouette are the same. I can’t wait to wear this again for the upcoming fall and winter. It’s another unique wardrobe piece that lends polish to any outfit. I feel #likeaboss in this, it’s got attitude for days. I also wore it over a couple of cocktail dresses last year, it’s a great topper for your nighttime get ups.

Linen muscle tee (grey and other colors). Madewell makes my favorite tees, the slouch/drape of the fabric is the best. Stock up on this must-have basic.

Pocket v-neck tee. Another favorite tee. GAP had my favorite v-neck tees until I came across Madewell’s version. Again, great drape to the light cotton material of this tee, but what sold me on the Madewell tee versus other brands is that it washes so well and refuses to shrink (I wash on delicate, cold water and hang dry all of my nicer tee shirts).

So, those are my Win/Win picks. What did you think of them?

Annnnd, I may have ordered some new things. Check back in a day or two for that post. I had to order new bottoms since my old pants and jeans were too big for me. That’s a valid rationale, yes?

TGIF, xx!

tonal, gold & fringe

J.Crew soft lamé shirtdress (on sale with an extra 25% off using online code SHOPNOW); Barefoot Dreams cardigan in heathered oatmeal stripe (sold out, similar); Lucky Brand ‘Wekka’ sandals in Honey; Tan bandana (old, similar); BCBGeneration fringe cuff bracelet (sold out, similar); Cartier tank watch.

J.Crew soft lamé shirtdress (on sale with an extra 25% off using online code SHOPNOW); Barefoot Dreams cardigan in heathered oatmeal stripe (sold out, similar); Tan bandana (old, similar); BCBGeneration fringe cuff bracelet (sold out, similar).

J.Crew soft lamé shirtdress (on sale with an extra 25% off using online code SHOPNOW); Lucky Brand ‘Wekka’ sandals in Honey; Tan bandana (old, similar); BCBGeneration fringe cuff bracelet (sold out, similar); Cartier tank watch.

The weather has been beautiful this week, sunny and the 80’s during the daytime. But in the early mornings and evenings, there is the slightest chill in the air. A nice reminder that fall is coming.

I have been wanting this J.Crew gold lamé shirtdress for the longest time. I waited to purchase it when there was a 30% off promo code. I ordered this in a size 0 and it’s true to size. I like the subtle sheen and loose fit, it’s an easy and comfortable dress to wear. There’s a zipper in the back of the dress in addition to the front button placket, so it’s a breeze to get it off and on. It’s further reduced in price now and there’s an additional 25% off with code SHOPNOW. But, it’s a final sale item.

I’m still digging the fringe (with my cuff & sandals) and it’s sticking around for this fall and winter after seeing an abundance of boots, sweaters and jackets with fringe accents.

Now, I can officially break out the Barefoot Dreams cardigan that I purchased in July from the Nordstrom Anniversary Sale. It’s since sold out, unfortunately. I think the Barefoot Dreams company makes baby blankets (my guess after perusing their instagram account), which may explain the incredible softness of this cardigan. I had also purchased the navy striped cardigan during the Anniversary Sale, but I ended up gifting it to a dear friend of mine. She’s a gorgeous blonde, so the blue colors looked amazing on her. So, my plan is to buy these cardigans in future anniversary sales and give them as gifts because they get such a positive response.

Happy Thursday to you!

new stuff from banana republic

Code BRSALE will get you an extra 50% off sale styles with prices ending in .97 or .99. Here’s what I ordered:

Black ruched jersey skirt. I posted two images so you can see how this skirt can be dressed up or down. They remind me of the ever popular Alexander Wang jersey knit skirts (but for at least $100 cheaper!). There are glowing online reviews for this skirt, I’m hoping I share their love once I get it. The skirt is on sale, but the BRSALE code does not apply for the skirt in black.

Heather grey ruched jersey skirt. I can’t wait to get these skirts, the styling possibilities are endless. I’m hoping the jersey fabric will lay nicely over tights because I’d love to wear the skirts during the winter months with ankle boots.

Multi-plaid boyfriend shirt in tigers eye green. I don’t have a plaid shirt in this color scheme and once I read the online reviews that this green looks amazing with olive (a major color for this fall & winter) and gold, I added it to my bag pronto. Also, look at the gingham for the inner layer of this shirt. I love this detail, I love me some gingham. It’s not flannel, so it’s perfect to wear now. Yet, it’ll be a good layering piece once the cold temps kick in.

I ordered everything in a XS, I’m hoping everything will fit. Check back to see me style the new goods!

Have a great Tuesday! xx

review: new pants on the cheap

J.Crew Factory sweater (old, similar); Caslon chino crop pants in Olive Tuscan; Banana Republic Factory Store gold wedge sandals (old, similar); J.Crew necklace (old, similar); Leopard belt (gift, similar); Cartier tank watch.

J.Crew Factory sweater (old, similar); Caslon chino crop pants in Olive Tuscan; Banana Republic Factory Store gold wedge sandals (old, similar); J.Crew necklace (old, similar); Leopard belt (gift, similar); Cartier tank watch.

J.Crew Factory sweater (old, similar); Caslon chino crop pants in Olive Tuscan; Banana Republic Factory Store gold wedge sandals (old, similar); J.Crew necklace (old, similar); Leopard belt (gift, similar); Cartier tank watch.

For a long time, I avoided pants. When I gained weight, pants not fitting me were the first indication. When I lost weight, pants not fitting me were the first indication.

However, you need pants, especially when fall is just around the corner. I’ve been at my current weight for the whole summer so I figured it would be safe to buy non-stretchy pants. Nordstrom came to the rescue with the closet staple of chino pants on sale for less than $24 a pair. I ordered the olive, navy and dark grey colors in a size 0. The online reviews say these run a little big. The fit, weight and slight boyfriend slouch are what makes these khakis amazing. They are a great transitional piece as the weather gets cooler and I plan on pairing these with chunky socks that will peek out over ankle boots.

Now, I embrace the pants. Have a great Thursday! xx

summer lately

Wow, it’s September already. I’m not ready for summer to end. Here are a few recent pics (from my Instagram, which you can follow me here):

Patterson J. Kincaid ‘Dora’ crochet dress (old, similar); Banana Republic gold leather clutch (old, similar); Lucky Brand ‘Leyna’ sandals (old, similar).

We attended our first Dîner En Blanc this year at The Navy Yard in Philadelphia. It was so much fun, in spite of the rain, and we hope to attend more of these pop-up dinners in the future.

Biltmore for Madewell Panama hat; Milly for Kohl’s striped t-shirt dress (sold out, similar); Vans sneakers in navy (similar in grey); Cartier tank watch.

Ray Ban Light Ray sunglasses; Lilly Pulitzer printed Lucy romper (sold out, similar); Diamond stud earrings (similar).

Hugo Guinness for J.Crew dog t-shirt; Banana Republic Factory Store denim shorts (old, similar); J.Crew Factory yellow braided belt (old, similar); Target Sam & Libby ‘Karina’ sandals (old, similar).

I just had to buy this t-shirt, it’s Bella the Bulldog!

Ray Ban Light Ray sunglasses; Milly for Kohl’s striped tee (sold out, similar).

Just Bella and me, out for an early morning walk and starting National Dog Day with some quality bonding time.

Biltmore for Madewell Panama hat; Milly for Kohl’s striped t-shirt dress (sold out, similar); Vans sneakers in navy (similar in grey); Cartier tank watch.

I got a major haircut yesterday, I had about 5 inches taken off. I have a full-fledged bob. I still can’t figure out how to post videos on my blog but there’s a little video of my new do on my Instagram.

Are you enjoying the last bits of summer where you are? I hope so! Happy Tuesday to you, xx.