Sunday Funday sporty

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J.Crew striped sweatshirt (similar); Madewell Alley straight crop jeans: drop-hem edition (old, similar); New Balance for J.Crew 620 sneakers in neon citrus (current gold salt & light blue persimmon version); H&M neon statement necklace (old, similar); Cartier tank watch.

Stripes and old school style kicks for a Sunday Funday. The J.Crew sweatshirt is new (discussed here) and I’m so pleased with it. It’s the perfect fit and the navy and white stripes are eye-catching. I can see this sweatshirt being a favorite for spring and summer. I’m wearing a size XS. We had a beautiful spring-like day yesterday and it was great to have bare ankles again. I grabbed one of my first fashion pair of sneakers to add some punch to the navy.

Hope you enjoyed your weekend and let’s have a great week as we go into March!

back in black

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J.Crew black stewart plaid shirt (sold out, similar); J Brand black coated skinny jeans (old, similar here & here); Steve Madden Ecentric leopard sneakers (old, similar); Banana Republic Factory link necklace (old, similar).

Yesterday’s outfit called for something easy and nothing is more of a no-brainer than a black outfit. I did my version of a post-punk-lite look with black stewart plaid, black coated jeans that look like leather, and a dash of leopard. Very comfortable and perfect for a Friday.

Enjoy your Saturday! xx

new j.crew review

A follow up post from my J.Crew SALETIME post (here) with reviews, new picks and try-on outfit photos.

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J.Crew lucite link necklace & Teddie sailor pants in skinny stripe.

The purchase of the necklace and pants were not part of the current SALETIME promotion, but J.crew ran a 25% off select full-price styles last weekend. It was love at first sight for the pink necklace when I spotted it on Instagram. It’s a classic large link necklace but in a clear pink for the spring and summer. The sailor pants were something very different from my pants norm, so I wanted to check them out in person. They weren’t available at my local J.Crew store.

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Madewell slim turtleneck in heather toffee (sold out, similar); J.Crew Teddie sailor pants in skinny stripe; Topshop Juno ballet pumps in gold.

I’m trying on the Teddie sailor pants and the size 0 I ordered are too big all around. The downside of online shopping, they are going back. I may order a smaller size but I’m going to mull it over. If you’re considering these, they are lightweight and remind me of seersucker but without the puckering. The stripes are slightly raised, you can feel their texture when you run your fingers against the fabric. It gives the 100% cotton material substance and structure. They’re unlined and machine washable. It’s a great pant, but I would prefer the sailor style in a solid navy and with 100% cotton so I can wear them in the summer. J.Crew does sell a beautiful navy sailor pant, but it’s wool and is lined.

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J.Crew lucite link necklace, striped boatneck t-shirt in undyed clay saffron & studded leather belt in chestnut (sold out, similar); Two by Vince Camuto 70’s Flare jeans; Topshop Magnificent boots in tan.

I am wearing the necklace and the multicolored boatneck tee, both are great. I’m thrilled with the necklace, it’s such a fresh and fun piece of jewelry for the spring. It’s lightweight, just as J.Crew claims, and the quality is really there. It has an adjustable clasp in the back so you can play around with different lengths to complement your outfit or mood. The striped boatneck is a perfect pick-me-up from the doldrums of winter.

I’m transitioning into spring mode ever so slowly, how about you? What are you looking forward to when spring finally arrives?

Happy Friday to you! xx

SALETIME at j.crew: my picks/reviews

It’s sale time at J.Crew and promo code SALETIME will get you an additional 50% final sale items and 40% sale items until 11:59 ET on February 26th. Since the good stuff sells out quickly, let’s get to my picks and reviews!

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Italian leather gloves in black, bright ocean & english saddle on final sale, so they’re an additional 50% off.

I ordered the gloves in black and I am very pleased with the gloves. It was time to replace the black leather pair I currently have since the interior lining has worn through. The supple leather is substantial and the lining is 100% cashmere and not a blend. They’re not made in Italy, rather they’re made in the Philippines. I’m guessing the Italian description is based upon the fact that they are made by Portolano for J.Crew. Portolano is an Italian company that is known for their leather gloves and is regularly sold for a higher price. You can find them on clearance at this time of the year, but generally the larger sizes aren’t available anymore. Use the size guide on J.Crew’s website for gloves, I ordered a size large (it’s a perfect fit). Also, measure your dominant hand since it’s likely that it’s a little bigger than your non-dominant hand. Since the price decreased since my earlier order, I ordered a backup pair in the english saddle. These would also make for great gifts for Christmas, birthdays, etc.

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Striped tissue turtleneck in navy/ivory & ivory/redwood on final sale, so they’re an extra 50% off.

I ordered the two color combinations above but there may be two other combos if they are still available. I gave a review in my outfit post yesterday (read it here). I highly recommend this top, it’s a great layer and hey, stripes! I ordered a size XS in both colorways.

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Striped sweatshirt on final sale (extra 50% off) & White cropped skinny jeans on sale (additional 40% off).

I just ordered these so no review yet, but the striped sweatshirt looks like a great staple for a casual outfit or for the beach once the sun sets and the cool breeze kicks in. Plus, easy to wash and wear versus a striped sweater. I ordered a size XS. I’m in need of white jeans (my current pair is too big on me, even with a belt) for the coming spring and summer months and this pair gets very high ratings online. I’m excited for the crop length (26″ inseam), which means no hemming needed for my short legs. I ordered a size 25.

3/2/16 Update: I’m keeping the striped sweatshirt, it’s true to size and it’s cropped in the torso and slightly in the sleeves. However, I returned the white jeans because the material was sort of sheer and there wasn’t enough cotton in the fabric for my liking (very jeggings-ish). It’s a shame because the fit and length were perfect for me.

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Striped boatneck t-shirt in undyed cinnamon atlantic & undyed clay saffron on final sale (additional 50% off).

I bought the undyed cinnamon atlantic top earlier (see here and here for my review and outfit pictures) and my favorite part of the classic boatneck is the multicolored stripes. Love this different and fresh take, so I had to order the undyed clay saffron version. The light pink and orange color palette just screams spring. I ordered a size XS, the same size as the other colorway.

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Nordic parka in navy (also in olive) on sale (extra 40% off) & Fair Isle leggings on final sale (additional 50% off).

I posted a detailed review here but I wanted to mention that this parka has been an absolute lifesaver this winter, especially when the temps are in the low 30’s or below. I don’t even feel the heavy weight anymore when I wear it and now when I put on my puffer coat or jacket, it’s so flimsy and feather light (like a cardigan). The thick and warm hood is legit and when you zip up the parka all the way with the hood on, you can actually get away without wearing a hat and scarf for a good stretch of time. This worked during all the dog walks with Bella, even at the very windy beach (Bella loves the beach!). My sister bought the parka after she saw me wear it and I kept raving on and on about it. The warmth factor of this parka is crazy, I don’t need to put the heat on in the car if I’m wearing it and also have my knee-high Sorel boots on (actually experienced this during a 100-mile drive while the Jonas Blizzard was winding down). The exterior water-repellant material is tough and durable, I slipped and fell on the ground a couple of times due to ice and not a mark to the fabric–impressive. I think overall, this Nordic parka was the most practical and best purchase I made last year. I purchased a size XS.

The Fair Isle leggings are the softest leggings I’ve ever had the pleasure of wearing. The fit is a little big around my knees and calves but it doesn’t affect the overall look at all. The many colors in the Fair Isle design match with a lot of tops and sweaters already in my wardrobe. How cute are these? I already plan on wearing them for entertaining next Christmas, but I’ll be happily lounging around in them now. The only potential downside is that they are dry clean only, probably due to the 100% merino wool material, and the online reviews warn of not machine washing these. I bought a size XS.

Are you going you take advantage of the J.Crew sale? If so, what is catching your eye?

Happy Wednesday to you, we’re halfway to the weekend! xx

all navy ootd

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J.Crew navy/ivory striped turtleneck (promo code SALETIME for an additional 40/50% off sale items) & navy studded leather belt (sold out, similar); J.Crew Factory plaid puffer vest & golden cuff bracelet; Levi’s Capital E cropped skinny jeans (old, similar); Madewell Ensign necklace in vintage gold & metallic marled socks in bright blue; L.L. Bean 8″ boots in navy/kelly green.

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J.Crew navy/ivory striped turtleneck (promo code SALETIME for an additional 40/50% off sale items) & navy studded leather belt (sold out, similar); J.Crew Factory plaid puffer vest & golden cuff bracelet; Levi’s Capital E cropped skinny jeans (old, similar); Madewell Ensign necklace in vintage gold & metallic marled socks in bright blue; L.L. Bean 8″ boots in navy/kelly green.

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J.Crew navy/ivory striped turtleneck (promo code SALETIME for an additional 40/50% off sale items) & navy studded leather belt (sold out, similar); J.Crew Factory plaid puffer vest & golden cuff bracelet; Levi’s Capital E cropped skinny jeans (old, similar); Madewell Ensign necklace in vintage gold & metallic marled socks in bright blue; L.L. Bean 8″ boots in navy/kelly green.

With the exception of the puffer vest, I’m wearing one of my favorite colors, navy, for my entire outfit. I’m wearing three new items. First, the striped tissue turtleneck is awesome. There is a ton of online love for this thin turtleneck and I wholeheartedly agree. It’s a great layer and the cotton material is so soft. It’s fitted, I’m wearing a size XS and it just fits me in the shoulders and under my arms. It’s true to size but if you want a looser fit, go up a size. But hurry, this is on final sale and it’s selling out quickly. I also bought the ivory/redwood stripe turtleneck and the color combo is versatile. Second, I bought the studded navy belt but it has since sold out. If you can find one in a J.Crew store, buy it. The studs are on both sides of this belt and leather is thick and substantial. Lastly, the marled socks from Madewell are a little different since they have a subtle metallic thread running through the knit. I think they look cute peeking out over the navy bean boots.

Hope your Tuesday is treating you well! xx

still leather weather

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Woolrich cocoon raincoat in steel blue; J.Crew beaded popover white shirt (old, similar); Paige Denim leather leggings (old, similar); Steven by Steve Madden Madee leopard loafers (old, similar here, here & here).

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J.Crew beaded popover white shirt (old, similar); Paige Denim leather leggings (old, similar); Steven by Steve Madden Madee leopard loafers (old, similar here, here & here).

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Woolrich cocoon raincoat in steel blue; J.Crew beaded popover white shirt (old, similar); Paige Denim leather leggings (old, similar); Steven by Steve Madden Madee leopard loafers (old, similar here, here & here).

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Woolrich cocoon raincoat in steel blue; J.Crew beaded popover white shirt (old, similar); Paige Denim leather leggings (old, similar); Steven by Steve Madden Madee leopard loafers (old, similar here, here & here).

Yesterday’s outfit to see Brooklyn at the movie theater. By the way, Brooklyn was outstanding, my husband and I really loved this film. The acting, story and locations were simply beautiful.

I went for easy and comfortable, the leather leggings with the elastic waistband was a godsend after eating too much the day before (too much #netflixandchill, but I have to also recommend Straight Outta Compton–rent this DVD). And, you can’t go wrong with a classic white shirt and leopard shoes. The raincoat was a necessity since the forecast called for rain, but fortunately it didn’t start raining until after we returned home. I still have lots of love for this raincoat, I reach for this far more than my traditional trenchcoats. It easily fits over anything I’m wearing and it has a hood, I can go without an umbrella if it’s not too crazy with the rain.

Do you have your rain gear set up for the spring? Are you wearing leather now before it gets too warm to wear?

Happy Monday to you! xx

leather weather

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Madewell ultimate leather motorcycle jacket in vintage merlot (similar here, here & here) & pink plaid flannel shirt (sold out, similar); Levi’s Capital E skinny jeans (old, similar); Mossimo high top grey flannel sneakers. Note: you may need to click on the levi.com website more than once due to an unknown glitch, it should take you to the item on the 2nd try.

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Madewell ultimate leather motorcycle jacket in vintage merlot (similar here, here & here) & pink plaid flannel shirt (sold out, similar); Levi’s Capital E skinny jeans (old, similar); Mossimo high top grey flannel sneakers. Note: you may need to click on the levi.com website more than once due to an unknown glitch, it should take you to the item on the 2nd try.

We had a heatwave yesterday with temps around 60 degrees and I gladly shed the puffers and parkas for some merlot colored leather. I bought this moto jacket in 2014 and it’s still one of my all time favorites. Totally classic in the details, yet with a fresh take in such an unexpected shade of burgundy. I’m showing two images, one without indoor lighting and one with, so you can get a sense of the rich color in different lighting.

Did you opt for leather or something lighter for the warmer temperatures? Happy Sunday to you!

grey all day

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Bella Freud Glam graphic sweater (sold out, similar here, here & here); Topshop Cigarette cropped trousers in grey; Puma Match Lo sneakers.

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Bella Freud Glam graphic sweater (sold out, similar here, here & here); Topshop Cigarette cropped trousers in grey; Puma Match Lo sneakers.

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Bella Freud Glam graphic sweater (sold out, similar here, here & here); Topshop Cigarette cropped trousers in grey; Puma Match Lo sneakers.

I gave my jeans the day off and wore my new cropped trousers (reviewed earlier here where I discuss the quirky sizing). It’s a relatively balmy day here, clocking in the forties, which is much better than the subzero temps we had this past weekend. It’s still cold, but I could get away with a sliver of a bare ankle indoors. Trouser socks were on hand for the outside.

Do you like this cropped trousers look as an alternative to jeans?

Ugh, is winter over yet? At least it’s halfway to the weekend, yippee!

sock boots

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Banana Republic cropped flare jeans; Topshop ‘Magnificent’ sock boots in tan.

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Free People turtleneck dress (sold out, similar here, here & here and use code LINCOLN for extra 20% off); Madewell necklace (old, similar) & donegal tights (sold out, similar); Topshop ‘Mistic’ boots (more sizes here).

It’s official, I love sock boots. I ordered another pair, the Magnificent, in a gorgeous tan. Since Topshop runs in half sizes only, I ordered a 7.5 and 8.5. The 8.5 was too big on my feet, so I’m keeping the 7.5. It’s a snug fit but I can manage. I also have the Mistic boots in a 7.5 (I also compared them to a 8.5 and again, too big). Since the toe is round on the Mistic and an almond toe for the Magnificent, the Mistic is more comfortable of the two boots. Yet, I plan on wearing tights or stocking type trouser socks which are thin and silky, so both boots will be fine.

The outfit above was for last night’s Valentine’s Day dinner. My husband really liked my outfit, so success!

Do you like sock boots? Happy Monday to you! xx

♥️ heart of the matter ♥️

Happy Valentine’s Day to you! Hope your Sunday involves something you love and with someone you love.

February is American Heart Month so let’s get our physical activity game on point. I’m sharing my recent workout gear finds of stuff I love and worked out in, all of which are on sale now. Your size may sell out, so don’t delay.

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Lululemon What the Sport Short; Zella Live in Slim Fit Leggings; J.Crew Factory Striped Tank Top.

The shorts are $39 (originally $58) and they are my favorite workout shorts. I reviewed them earlier here. I had paid full price and it was worth it because they wear and wash like a dream. The side pockets really stores your iPhone on the rower, elliptical and treadmill. Now that a solid black pair of these shorts are on (final) sale, I’m taking advantage of the sale price. My old pair is a size 6, but the new pair I ordered is a size 4 (I’ve lost weight and went down to a Lululemon size 4 for their bottom pieces).

The leggings are $38.86 (originally $58). I bought a couple pairs of Zella Live In Slim Fit leggings on sale right after Christmas for about $39 each. I’m wearing my pink space dye pair in this post in the second image. I was impressed with the leggings, again they wear and wash very well and the fit is super comfortable (the waistband stays put). I also like the bright colors and patterns, it’s cheerful during the cold and dreary days of winter. My favorite workout leggings are Lululemon, but the Zella leggings are a close second. If I can score a Zella pair on sale for under $40, I’m thrilled because that’s less than half the cost of a regularly priced Lululemon pair. I ordered a size XS, my other pairs are XS and they are true to size.

The tank is $15.60 (with promo code EXTRAEXTRA and if you purchase at least 6 items, but it’s on sale for $19.50 without a promo). I bought a solid navy version of this tank last October (discussed here). I really love this tank, it’s great for my workouts and the fit is perfect (not loose and not tight). I bought another tank in the heather grey a few weeks later, but the stitching on the front of the tank was wonky. I returned it. So, if you order this tank, just inspect it carefully for quality control. I love that there’s a striped version of this workout tank because you know my love for stripes. I ordered a size XS, my navy tank is an XS and it’s true to size.

Cute workout clothes motivate me and when it’s so cold that your house pipes freeze (this has happened a couple of times this winter alone), you need backup gear.

Keep moving for a healthy heart! xoxo

2/20/16 Update: I’m keeping the Lululemon shorts, the size 4 is the perfect fit. I’m really pleased with these shorts, they are my favorite workout shorts.

I’m also keeping the J.Crew Factory striped tank. The material is thicker than my navy mesh insert tank, it’s like swimsuit material. Also, the torso is a little wider than the other tank but it may be due to the thicker fabric. Well, this makes for a more flattering fit when you’re bending or crouching, it won’t stick to lumps and bumps-that’s for sure.

I’m returning the Zella leggings because the material was a turn off for me. For workout leggings, I like a more cotton knit type of finish instead of shiny spandex. I know I may be inconsistent because the Lululemon What the Sport shorts are more of a spandex than a cotton knit, but the Zella was too shiny for me (it reminded me of the 1980’s Jazzercise leotards). The Lululemon material is muted/matte and it doesn’t snag, I wasn’t confident that the Zella pair would hold up as well. It also wasn’t flattering, especially in the butt area.

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