Loafer? Couch Potato?

I was at a local thrift store yesterday, just wasting some time before a meeting, and found some AMAZING bright blue loafers.. IN MY SIZE! Pumped? Why yes, I was! So then today I decided to check out Charlotte Russe's website and looked through their shoes and BAM.. there are my shoes! Except not in the awesome blue color. But still fantastic! And c'mon.. could you find a more comfortable shoe? (Besides a slipper of course people!) =)

Above: Burnished Penny Loafer, $22.50, Charlotte Russe

LOVE THESE!!!

And for now.. back to the looking glass.

It's Tassel Time!

Just in the past week or so I have started to love the look of tassel jewerly. Now, you won't find much out there right now - but I have a feeling you will be seeing more of it in the near future (which, of course, is the main idea behind my blog)! I'd LOVE to see some tassel earrings..

Here is a fabulous example of tassel jewelry - I'm hoping that we can expect a less expensive version coming soon, maybe to Bleu Dame or Forever 21. For now, this is all I've got to go on!

Pearl Beaded Tassel Necklace, $112 (orig. $246), Gilt

In order to access the sale boutiques on Gilt, you will probably need to sign up. If you would like to sign up, go to this link: Gilt Invite

And for now.. back to the looking glass.

To Knot, or Not To Knot?

I was on one of my favorite discount sites (Ideeli) this morning and found a boutique that featured dresses by RAVON. I had never heard of this brand before, but as soon as I started looking through the selection of dresses, I was hooked - the line is fabulous! I'm not sure if RAVON always has this same theme for their dresses or not, but what I found today is great! The 'theme' I'm talking about, shown below, is knots.. knotting, twisting, bunching.. and more knots! I am absolutely in love with this look! The dress shown below is just the dress that showed the most detail in the knotting and twisting - there are MANY more that are just as fabulous if not more so!

Dress: Mocha Short Transformer Dress, RAVON, $59 (discounted from $178!), Ideeli

Wondering how you can join Ideeli and take part in their awesome deals!?? Go to the Ideeli website and click "Join now".. and in no time at all you will be taking advantage of some awesome deals! Just be forewarned - many times items will sell out quickly, and most boutiques only last a couple of days. So if you find something that you MUST have, don't wait!

And for now.. back to the looking glass.

Endless Possibilities with Endless.com?

I'm sure I'm not the only one who has noticed the onslaught of commercials for endless.com. I absolutely fell in love with a pair of boots (below) featured in the commercial, and of course felt it was my 'duty' as a blogger to check out the site and give my review.

My first thought when checking out the site was 'OK, another high-priced website with so-so cute stuff.' But as I investigated further, I found MANY cute things and many things that were priced reasonably! Now, my examples below are not all 'reasonably' priced, but were things that caught my eye and made me say 'Wowzah!'

 Boots: Sam Edelman Women's Renzo Ankle Bootie, $250, Endless

Bag: Tylie Malibu Jetset Sadie Hobo, $254.82 - $448 (depending on color), Endless

Earrings: Kenneth Cole New York "Urban Snake" Mixed Metal Chain Chandelier Earrings, $28, Endless

As you can see, I found several things that are just plain fab (and again found fringe that I love!).

And for now.. back to the looking glass.

And She's Back!

Hi all, sorry I was MIA in the past month or so! My wedding was this past Saturday (it was so fun!) so now I will have much more time to post!

Speaking of posting.. I was 'window shopping' on LuLu*s today and found these faaaaabulous boots! I know it feels too early to be thinking about fall and winter, but really people, we're only a few short months away from snow! =O

 Above: Not Rated Son of a Gun Black Buckled Wedge Ankle Boots, $58, LuLu*s

Above: Jeffrey Campbell Sloane White Fringe Leather Riding Boots, $269, LuLu*s

I am LOVING the fringe look this season - keep fringe in mind when shopping for fall and winter clothes and accessories! And of course, buckles are still one of my fav looks.. I'm not sure I'll ever grow tired of buckles!

And for now.. back to the looking glass.

Peyote Stitch Jewelry

For the past several months, I have been obsessing over a certain type of beading that can be used to make jewelry (or belts, wallets, bags, etc). This type of beading is called Peyote Stitch. This actually has its origins in Native American roots where the peyote cactus is eaten as a sacrament in the Native American Church. During this ceremony instruments are used which contain a form of peyote stitch and as such we have taken the name from there.

Now, this style is not in too many stores as of yet, but I have a suspicion that by next year it will be a highly sought-after style. The best part of this beading style? I think it's something that crafters can easily learn to do themselves! (At least I know I'm going to try!) Here are some examples of some peyote stitch. If/when I get the time to create some of my own pieces, I'll showcase those as well!

Bracelet: Chillin' with Bob Dylan Leather Bracelet, $20, LuLu*s; Earrings: Seed Bead Earrings, $3.80, Forever 21

The example of the peyote stitch on the bracelet is attached to the leather.. it is merely the decorative, beaded part of the bracelet. However, you can also create an entire bracelet out of only the beads of the peyote stitch. The earrings are partially peyote stitch and partially fringe (which hangs off the peyote stitch part).

The possibilities are endless, especially when creating custom pieces - different colors, different patterns.. whatever your heart desires!

And for now.. back to the looking glass.

An Accessory I Love

In the world of accessories, there are so many options it can sometimes be intimidating. That is why I love to frequently browse my favorite stores looking for those pieces that I suddenly realize I love. That is how I found my newest love.. leather bracelets. Here are some examples of my favorite leather bracelets:

Top, left to right: Tour Date Studded Black Leather Cuff, $25, LuLu*s; Chillin with Bob Dylan Leather Bracelet, $20, LuLu*s

Bottom, left to right: 9461 Nicole Richie 5-Strand Leather Bracelet, $4.80, Bleu Dame; 8016 Double Wrap Mixed Stud Leather Bracelet, $12.80, Bleu Dame

The best part about leather bracelets? They're best when layered! You can mix and match to your heart's desire! Have fun with them!

And for now.. back to the looking glass.

See You This Fall!

As much as I hate to admit it, fall is fast approaching. As I am preparing my wardrobe for fall, I can't seem to stop thinking about jewel tones. You know, the emerald greens, sapphire blues, ruby reds, amethyst purples.. I just can't get enough of them! I think they are a very fun way to brighten up the often drab fall color palette. You can wear these colors in many different ways, from your clothing (for a big impact) to your accessories (more subtle impact). Here are some examples:

On top, from left to right: Seed-Beaded Flutter Top, $19.99, Charlotte Russe; 7442 Solid Gauze Fringe Square Scarf, $8.80, Bleu Dame
On bottom, from left to right: Jersey Knotted Flat, $7.99 (sale price), Wet Seal; Madrid Maneuver Red Handbag, $43, LuLu*s

And for now.. back to the looking glass.



The <$50 Outfit Challenge

I was listening to a radio morning talk show this morning, and unemployment was brought up. It got me thinking about the economy and how a lot of people (the majority, even) have had to cut back to some degree on their spending. And while I try to always focus on being budget-conscious when I'm showcasing items in my posts, I figured I would try to go even further. Therefore, I have devoted this post to creating a super-adorable, complete summer outfit for under $50. Think I'm crazy? So do I. But here we go.

Dress: Mossimo Supply Co. Juniors Kimono Sleeve Dress - Guava Berry, $14.94, Target; Shoes: Wild Diva Tanaya-54 Snake Flat Sandal, $8.20 (on sale from $14.50), UrbanOg; Bag: Xhilaration® Crossbody - Stone, $14.99, Target; Bracelet: 5513 Wide Vegan Leather Rhinestone Bracelet, $6.80, Bleu Dame; Earrings: Desert Princess Earrings, $4.80, Forever 21.

The grand total? Drum roll please.. $49.73!!! Now.. I know you're all thinking, "What about tax and shipping?". Do you think I'm a miracle worker? Sheesh! =) But really, even taking into account tax and shipping, that is a darn cute summer outfit for a darn cute price. And in winter, add black tights or skinny jeans and some cute white flats.. bam, you are good to go.

Also, never underestimate your local thrift stores! You can usually find cute pieces if you look hard enough. I frequently visit thrift stores and find a piece that is either great as-is or that can be re-purposed into some new use I dream up for it! Never be afraid to alter clothing that you buy.. especially for cheap.

And for now.. back to the looking glass.

Beach-Friendly Looks

Is it ever too early to start preparing for an upcoming vacation? No way! As I have mentioned in previous posts, my wedding is coming up very soon! My fiancee and I, however, are postponing our honeymoon until February (when we'll REALLY feel the difference going from wintry-cold Wisconsin to warm, beautiful Mexico!). So, in preparation, I have been searching for beach-friendly looks that can also double as going-out outfits without much fuss! Below I'll feature a couple of my favorite looks, so feel free to take inspiration from them and apply it to your style this summer!

Beach Look --

Dress: Motown White Dress, $38, LuLu*s; Swimsuit: Sequined Stripe Triangle Top ($25) and String Bottom ($24), Victoria's Secret; Shoes: City Classified Kimber-H Leopard Thong Flat Sandal, $17.70, UrbanOg; Hat: Merona Coconut Buckle Floppy Hat - Brown, $12.99, Target; Handbag: Nancy's Needlepoint Floral Handbag, $21, LuLu*s; Sunglasses: 2962 Vintage Inspired Rounded Riley Sunglasses, $9.80, Bleu Dame; Bangles: 7627 Giant Ethnic Metal Bangle Set, $18.80, Bleu Dame.

Going-Out Look --

Dress: Motown White Dress, $38, LuLu*s; Shoes: Multi Buckle-Strap Heel Sandal, $35.50, Charlotte Russe; Clutch: Robin's Nest Clutch, $24, Fred Flare; Belt: Mother Rock Turquoise Brown Leather Belt, $59, LuLu*s; Bangles: 7627 Giant Ethnic Metal Bangle Set, $18.80, Bleu Dame; Earrings: Feather Linear Earring, $6.50, Wet Seal.

Key points to take from these looks - macrame / crochet is hot this summer; stripes, lending to a nautical feel, are totally in; floppy hats are a must-have, not only for the cute-factor, but also to help protect you from the sun! Also, going from beach to night-time looks is going to be easy this summer.. don't feel like you need to get all gussied-up for the night scene.. go a little more casual and save yourself the effort and precious time (which could be better spent out with friends!).

And for now.. back to the looking glass.

Ready for Wedding Season?

My wedding is, much to my dismay, approaching at an alarmingly fast rate. (Where did all my 'planning time' go???) Which got me thinking - it can be very difficult for wedding-goers to decide on the perfect thing to wear.

If you're like me, the first thing you pull out of the closet when summer comes around is white. But wait.. do you get crucified if you wear white to a wedding? I don't know about crucified, but I would surely advise against it. Tan? Sure. Taupe? Definitely. Cream? Go ahead!. White background with some kind of design? Proceed with caution. For example, take the line-up of dresses below. Totally acceptable. Just remember, let's leave the all-white dress for the bride on her special day!

From left to right: Maple Chip Muffin Strapless Polka Dot Dress, $49, LuLu*s; Maggy London Dress, Sweetheart Sleeveless Fitted Cocktail Dress, $178, Macy's; Spring Blossom Tube Dress, $34.00, Charlotte Russe; D&G Metallic Floral Jacquard Dress, $348 (on sale from $1,160!!!!), The Outnet.

Next color dilemma.. black. Is black acceptable at a wedding? I'd surely hope so.. I have seen countless brides pick it for their bridesmaids! But if you're still afraid you'll look like you're attending a funeral, add some fun, bright accessories! You'll not only brighten up your look, but you'll look FABulous while you're doing it! (A fashionista secret trick? Bright and bold accessories.) Give some of the following accessories a try, or take inspiration from them and get something similar that you'll feel comfortable in! But PLEASE remember, it is not necessary to match your purse and your shoes, especially if you're going for bold colors.. it will look too matchy-matchy!

From left to right: Round the Lock Carnation Pink Purse, $39, LuLu*s; The Hawaiian Flower Cuff in Mustard, $16, Karmaloop; Women's Liliana by Adi Side Bow Satin Stilettos, $34.99, Target.

So, now that we've got the 'problem children' out of the way, here are some of my favorite looks for the upcoming wedding season! Enjoy!

From left to right: Titanic Legend Strapless Blue Dress, $70, LuLu*s; Bisou Bisou One Shoulder Dress, $49.99 (on sale from $70!), JC Penney; Haute Hippie Take Me Now Ruffle Dress, $475, Bop; Watercolor Twisted Skirt Dress, $168, Cache.

Still stumped? Send me an email! Let me know your situation, and I will do my best to find you that perfect outfit!

And for now.. back to the looking glass.

Sometimes You Can't Fight Fate

The main object of this blog, essentially, is to share my fashion predictions with readers who are curious about upcoming fashion. While I don't claim to be a psychic (no tarot cards or palm reading for me!), I have found myself countless times seeing looks I had been searching for 6 months prior showing up in fashion magazines or in my favorite stores. So I thought it would be appropriate for my first post to be about a prediction that came true - as shown in this fabulous snippet from the H&M Fall/Winter 2011 women's collection lookbook. 

First and foremost, let me just say that I'm VERY excited about the vibrant and rich colors that seem to be popping up for this fall. Those colors paired with a more formal fabric, such as silk (i.e. the burgundy blouse on the far left) make for a striking combination! And add to that the creams, browns, and taupes in suede or corduroy, and you've got a killer fall/winter look that will knock everyones socks off! And let it also be said that a girl can never go wrong with some ever-sensible (and oh-so-cute) black leather ankle boots!

Now, back to the reason I'm featuring this photo in my post. It all began on a bright spring day (yesterday) on my on-a-mission lunch break. What was I on a mission for? A dress for my engagement picture session, which is a mere 11 days away (eek!). As some of you may know, being sure of your personal fashion sense can sometimes be more of a curse than a blessing. It can, at times, make finding something you will love for a specific occasion Mission: Impossible. So I thought that, after having given my usual stores-of-choice first chance at providing that perfect outfit and being sorely disappointed, I'd try a small local boutique that is aimed at a much more mature age group than myself. Surprisingly, I found quite a few dresses that I just HAD to try on, and while some turned out to be duds (there's always bound to be a few) I did find one that made the cut!

I made a bee-line up to the checkout, chatted with the clerk for a few minutes, and just happened to glance at the wall behind her and saw this absolutely FABulous cream quilted puffer-vest. But not just any puffer-vest.. oh no.. this particular vest has the most absurdly fantastic fur collar I've ever seen. The fur starts at the base as a light tan/cream, graduates to a darker brown through the midsection, and the tips are a vivid magenta that is, without exaggeration, to die for! I felt myself get the all-too-familiar clammy hands that I get when I see something I MUST have but know I shouldn't buy. (Oh how I wish to have unlimited shopping funds!)

The clerk, unaware of my dilemma, wished me a good day and told me to "Come back soon!"

Laughing nervously, I shot back a "Only if I decide to be naughty and buy that vest!" I'm proud of myself at this point, however, because I had resisted the tempting vest. I continue walking towards the door when, lo-and-behold.. there is a hat. THE hat. The hat I must have now that I've seen it. I pick it up. I feel the tantalizingly soft angora/wool blend that is 'the' hat. I'll come back later, I tell myself. I'll think about it and come back if I decide I can't live without this hat. And the vest. Can't forget the vest.

I walk, a little more hesitantly, out the door of the boutique and jump into my car. I turn the key while a war wages in my head. The car turns on. I turn the key again. The car turns off. I find myself, almost in a dream-like state, getting back out of my car, going back into that fabulously evil boutique, and purchasing both the vest AND the tide-turning hat.

And the key to this story? That hat, which was purchased with no previous intention to buy such a hat, is nearly identical to the hats featured in the photo above. Coincidence? Possibly. Or.. maybe I AM psychic!

And for now.. back to the looking glass.