Wait, Is That the End?

Let's Celebrate!

This year just seemed to fly by and it was filled with some fun times, great people and 365 days of fashion (almost). I want to thank all of you guys for your support on this little blog of mine. I can't wait to see you in 2012 with new adventures, fun changes and a little bit of:

Sparkle

Color

Animal Print

and

Notes from the Dressing Room


Have a fabulous (and safe) celebration and I'll see you next year!!!

Notes from the Dressing Room-Lady Chic at Ann Taylor

While I was working my way through the Christmas list (last-minute), I headed out to a few stores last week. Ann Taylor was in the neighborhood and as I was perusing the store, I couldn't help but think that I might have to set aside funds for some future purchases (they are trying to steal what I would set aside for J. Crew).

They are currently still offering 50% off, so definitely check them out. Here are a few dressing room pics of a few things that caught my eye:

Fireside Blouse, $98, available here

Tweed Mini Skirt, $98, available here

I love a vibrant color and this red-orange beauty is a great option. It is nicely fitted, the buttons lay flat with hardly any kind of button gaping that is usually an issue and it would be perfect paired alone or under a blazer. I didn't even realize it until I read the product description, but it has a subtle animal print. That makes it even better in my book. If I'm not mistaken the size I'm wearing is petite which fit pretty well and didn't have as much length at the bottom which works for me since I am short-waisted. Considering that this is polyester, I don't think it is worth the full price, but at 1/2 price, it goes up several notches to the possible buy category. Fit is tts.

Tweed! Glorious tweed!! I just gravitate towards certain fabrics and tweed is one of them. This skirt has a simple straight shape, contrasting color detail and best of all, the tweed has a bit of color weaved through it. I like the black lines (fyi, it does not continue through the back), but I know that might not work for others. It fit comfortably in my regular size, my only complaint is that the tweed does not feel that thick, however, it is lined so that's a plus. Overall, I think it is a nice buy.

3/4 Sleeve Sheath Dress, $128, available here in black (limited sizes)

Sheath dresses can be hit or miss when it comes to looking flattering on the body, but I have to say, this dress is a winner for me. Granted, it is very simple, but the color is fabulous and the fit of this dress was perfect. It hugged the body just so; the fabric wasn't clingy, it just skimmed appropriately. You can add a nice statement necklace, a scarf or a belt to take it up a notch. Or even better, pair it with a colorful shoe like this one. It has a zipper detailing on the sleeve and it has a hidden zipper in the back. Fit is tts and the length is just right. I whole-heartily give this baby a thumbs up and judging from the stock left online, it is going fast.

Multicolored Stripe Button 3/4 Sleeve Button Tunic, $78, available here

Are you all striped out?? Even if you are, this sweater has a little something different going on with the varying stripe sizes and extra colors. This sweater has several pluses going for it: the fabric is soft, it is well-fitting and it has the cutest button detail on the bottom of the sleeve. But, it is a thin knit and there is a possibility of fuzziness in its future. I'm not crazy about all of those horizontal lines on my body, but I'm sure it would look great on some of you skinny-minnies with cute tiny waists. :p  Good buy at 50% off!!

Felted Wool A-Line Mini Skirt $98, available here

I have a pair of pants that I like to call my "sweat" dress pants. They look like a regular pair of trousers but are made of jersey, so it almost feels like I'm wearing a pair of sweatpants. I absolutely love them and this skirt is pretty much the same thing, in a very work appropriate skirt form. The brownish-tan color is subtle enough to work with lots of other colors, I've already mentioned how comfortable it is and the wool is not itchy what-so-ever. Seriously, it could be stretch jersey. Fit is tts and I think it is a good buy.

Have you taken advantage of Ann Taylor's generous discount? Have you picked up any goodies at the mall lately?

Stocking Hung with Care and Fun Treats

I just want to wish all of my wonderful readers a Merry Christmas and the happiest of holidays. 


I'm gearing myself up on the annual viewing of one of my favorite holiday movies:

(source)

(source)

Drinking a little bit of this:

(source)

And eye-balling my present under the tree, counting down the hours until I can rip it open:

Okay, I know what it is but apparently there are extras in there and I have no clue what they are; the suspense is killing me!!

I hope you get lots of great presents, quality time with your loved ones and a belly full of yummy treats!!

OOTD- Pop & Roar

And a secret little holiday spirit via my socks:

I'm usually not one for holiday themed dressing (or even wearing colors associated with a holiday), but I thought these socks would start my week off with some great Christmas cheer.

I had been obsessed with finding a hot pink sweater ever since I saw images of this Tibi sweater earlier in the fall. I am no stranger to color or pink, so it was lust at first sight when I saw it, but I was immediately turned off by the high price tag. I love you Tibi, but it was not going to happen. So I did what I always do when my soda budget doesn't allow for champagne dreams; I went on a relentless manhunt for a suitable alternative. Forever 21 eventually heard my calls and came to the rescue and me and the hot pink sweater lived happily ever after. This is my first time wearing it and I love its vibrancy, but so much pink might be too much for work. A navy blazer and leopard scarf helped temper the blinding color and I'm sure my co-workers were thankful for not having to wear shades in the office.

When you find something you completely love, but is way out of your budget, do you:

A.) Just dream about it, but never really end up buying?

B.) Save your money up to eventually get it?

C.) Find an alternative or designer "inspired" version?

D.) Stalk that baby until the price is right?

Outfit Details:

Neon pink sweater- Forever 21 (similar here in short-sleeve, similar here in lighter shade)

Blue blazer- Lauren Ralph Lauren (similar vibe here, pricier version from a fave designer here, cheaper version in cotton here)

Denim- Joe's Jeans

Leopard scarf- ASOS (similar here, here in a knit, gray version with sequins here)

Tan boots- (old) Madewell (similar version this year here, similar here)

OOTD- Summer Layered

I have it in my head that I need an orange dress for winter. Especially after seeing this cute and simple DvF number and let me not talk about the awesome back detail on this Tibi dress. I saw someone wearing it last week and it made me love it even more. Alas, the only orange dress I have is a t-shirt dress that I picked up at H&M over the summer, but I found a way to make it work for the chilly weather by adding some layers. Since it isn't ridiculously cold yet, I styled it with a tee instead of a sweater and put on some cable-knit tights. Can I tell you how excited I am to go crazy and layer whatever I can in my closet? If I start looking like a third Olsen twin (except not really), it might be time for concern. In the meantime, I will be layered up and cozy.

Speaking of the Olsen twins, are you guys signed up for StyleMint yet? If not, you should. Do it here!! I have way too many t-shirts in my closet, so when StyleMint came around I figured I probably wouldn't be buying anything, but this is number three. I love the patterns, colors and design elements of their selection which is why I have added only more tops to the current toppling tower.

Do you have any toppling towers going on in your closet? What can't you stop buying all the time?

Outfit Details:

Open back t-shirt- StyleMint "Pacific"- Limited sizes available here, similar here and tee with interesting detail here)

Orange dress- H&M (pretty sleeveless number here, silkier version here, similar here)

Brown suede platforms- Charlotte Ronson (similar here in an interesting texture, similar here, simpler style here)

Leopard fedora- Albertus Swaneopol for Target (available here, similar here with wider brim, similar here with just a touch of leopard)

OOTD, A Blogging Good Time & Gift Guide, Phew!

On Wednesday, I had the opportunity to attend a fabulous evening at Bloomingdale's for a Bloggers Night Out event. There was bubbly flowing, yummy little cupcakes, hors d' oeuvres and a ridiculous amount of fashionable ladies in one small space. I had serious shoe and sparkle envy!! I got the chance to re-connect with some known faces and met several new bloggers that I can't wait to start following. I was on bad blogger duty and didn't get a ton of pictures, but check out Rosa's blog for a few, extremely gorgeous and professional looking photos. She seriously puts my photography skills to shame!!

And since my closet is seriously lacking sequins (something I need to remedy immediately), I decided to go for bright color:

Outfit Details: Tan blazer and necklace- Forever 21, Pink top-Ebay find, Cobalt blue knit skirt-Thrift find (similar color skirt here); Brown boots- Madewell (available here); Scarf-gifted; Leopard patent belt- J. Crew outlet; Brown quilted "Affair"- Rebecca Minkoff (similar here)

Now, if you guys have been slacking on the gift buying front, Bloomingdale's has got you covered. I am telling you, your friend (co-worker, neighbor, baby-sitter, sister) will be happy with these fun presents in her stocking. And if some of them happen to end up in yours, even better!!

Deborah Lippmann Get This Party Started Limited Edition Trio, check here for availability

I was introduced to Deborah's nail polish this year and love them. She is the queen of glittery nail fun and this set is a wonderful overload. Party starting, indeed! Perfect gift for the make-up or nail polish obsessed lady in your life.

Kate Spade Le Pavillion iPhone 4 Case, check availability here

If you, or someone you know, have an iPhone 4, then a fun case is a necessity. I searched everywhere for a cute case and let me tell you, Kate Spade knows cute. She is one of the few designers who designs hit all the right notes. You can't go wrong with flashing around a polka dot phone.

Rebecca Minkoff Mini MAC, available here

I am a certified Rebecca Minkoff handbag lover and have a couple of MACs in my possession. The new mini MAC size is perfect for the gal who doesn't carry a lot of things around during the day or who wants a small bag to carry the essentials at night. That neon pink would make a great pop for any winter outfit.

Diane von Furstenburg Bronze Lytton Minaudiere and Tonda clutches (check availability here and here)

Holy smokes, how gorgeous are these clutches?? Whatever Diane touches turns to gold or polka dot or bronze as the case may be here. While the previous mini MAC is perfect for a simple night to the movies or dinner, this clutch is dying to be carried at a fancy-schmancy party or a dressy affair. Ms. Bronze Lytton, I have my eye on you!!

Trina Turk Birch Metallic Sequin Dress, available here

I just went into a sequin overload coma with a smile on my face. Just look at this dress because it deserves to be admired. Do you have a Jersey girl in your life who lives and breathes anything sparkly? (Hi, Di)!! Do you need a fabulous NYE party dress? This dress is a must-buy now!

It's the last weekend for holiday shopping before you enter the danger zone of a real last-minute scramble. Whether you are heading to Bloomingdale's or any other store in the mall, I hope you get your to-buy list checked off.

Notes from the Dressing Room- Good Times at Madewell

I spent some time at the mall and managed to make it to a few stores before I was done. Do you love a crowed mall or prefer a quieter atmosphere while shopping? 
Madewell was my last stop of the day and I found some lovelies. Take a look:

Silk Sandlight Top, $98, available here

I loved this top!! They claim it is a loose-fitting top on the website, but I tried it on in my regular size and it fits just so. It has a subtle zebra print, but the lighter part has a pinkish tint to it. It has a feminine quality with the bracelet length sleeves, the length is good at around hip level and it could work with something dressier or you could go casual like I saw a sales associate wearing it with jeans, a cardi and knee boots. If this top was silk, I would say the price is a little more understandable, but it is not; so my only qualm with this piece is the high price point. However, it is a really nice top and will definitely go on my wishlist.

Golden Grid Tee, $98, available here

Do you own a million and one tees like me? I definitely don't need another, but when something is a little bit different, I can make an exception. This is a simple black tee with some fun detailing. There are slightly raised gold dots throughout the top and it gets a thumbs up. The shape is simple (if slightly boxy), but the shimmery gold gives it some fabulous oomph that can make it extremely versatile for work and play. Fit is tts and again, my only issue is with the price, but I would say go for it (once it hits the sales rack, if it makes it there).

Woodhouse Cardigan in heather thistle, $79.50, available here

High Riser Colorpop Jeans in Patina Verte, $125, available here

In my opinion, Madewell is one place that does cardis well. They come in a great array of colors, they fit nicely and feel soft. I saw the pretty, soft purple color of this one and was instantly smitten. It looks like a thermal top, but is not fitted like one. It's soft and a little bit different from just a simple ole' cardigan. The fit is tts if just slightly big. Thumbs up on this one.

Thanks to J. Crew, I have it in my head that I need a pair of mint pants. A pair of cords would be my first choice, but these legging jeans make a nice casual option. The fit was snug in my regular size, but there is a good amount of stretch to it, so I'm sure that will lead to a different feel once they've been worn on the body.   The color is a pale, green-blue shade that reminds me of ocean water. I think this is an extremely versatile shade that would lend itself well to navy blue, yellow, purples, pinks, browns, pretty much anything really. The price is on par with other designer denim brands and I can't really comment on the quality of their denim (although I do like the fit whenever I try a pair on in the store), but they are running a special through December 31st. If you bring in a pair of old denim jeans, you can get 20% off your first Madewell jean purchase in the new year. I already have a pair of old jeans lined up for donation, so I hope these minty fresh jeans can be mine soon.

Looking Glass Dress, $168, available here

This dress had me instantly thinking New Year's party dress. It's a silverish-cream color with a hint of shimmer and check out that sexy back detail!! This wouldn't even have to be designated for special occasion, if worn the right way (covered up), it could totally work double-duty as just a plain dress. I tried a size up and as you can see, it was a bit snug for me. So to be on the safe side, I would say size up in this dress. Overall, it is very pretty and a great addition to any wardrobe. Plus, pockets!!!!

Happy Shopping!!

Just a Little Time

I didn't mean to abandon you guys, but I went away for a long weekend. Hope you all have a great weekend and that this view of mine doesn't accumulate more white stuff:

What Goes Around, Comes Back Around

Hey, it's you again!!!

Forever 21 Striped Shift Dress, available here

I bought this dress last year and absolutely loved it. It looks so mod and the stripes are a tad more interesting with the different directions. I was quite surprised to see it pop up on the website again but extremely happy to be able to share it with you all. I decided to break it out of the closet again (see original post here and here as a top), but I put a little twist and wore it as a tunic instead:

(excuse the wrinkles, it was a long day sitting)

I highly recommend getting one for yourself. But if this one isn't quite your thing, there are plenty of other options out there too:

Oasis Bold Stripe Shift Dress, $90.90, available here

Kate Spade Andora Zebra Print Dress, $425, available here

J. Crew Stripe Sweater Dress, $140, available here

Lurex Rainbow Cross Back Dress, $160, available here

Heart and Soul Stripe Maxi Dress, on sale $36, available here

OOTD- Shopping Strut

So I woke up really early on Saturday because my mother invited me to an event at Nordstrom. I got there on time, ready to shop and discovered that the doors were locked and no one was there!! Perhaps it was because I had the wrong day (Sunday, not Saturday). D'oh! Have you guys ever had such a forehead slap moment?

Since I was up so early, I coerced my Mr. to go to breakfast and then we headed to the outlets (I mean, it was one exit away, why not, right?).

There's an extra special early Xmas gift in that Nordstrom Rack bag that I can't wait to share. I'm just trying to decide if I want to be good and wait until after the 25th to wear it or if I should start now. I can't believe that's a dilemma for me. I'm sure you'll see me with it in my next set of pictures. :)

Do you find gift shopping easy or difficult? 

My mother told me once that I give very thoughtful gifts. I definitely try, but the part of actually figuring out what to get is not always easy, especially for the person who doesn't want for anything (aka my father).

Outfit Details:

Blue hoodie- Yesstyle.com

Blue/green striped tee- H&M (very similar top here, similar sweater here in blue, colorblock top with similar colors here)

Blue leggings- Forever 21

Tan otk boots- (old) LOFT (similar here with wedge, similar here in brown)

Leopard handbag- Olivia + Joy (available here, similar here, my favorite here)

Mixed metal chain- Target

Tan coat- Uniqlo (similar here and here)

OOTD- Hanging on to Fall

Winter is on the way, but I can't quit you, fall.

After being spoiled with some rather warm weather for this time of year, winter has decided to wave and say I've arrived. Jackets are now going to be traded for coats (although I am happy I get to wear my new coat). Next to spring, fall is my favorite season, so I decided to let it linger a little while longer with this outfit's color palette. I absolutely loved how it came out and now I'm all excited trying to come up with some new color combos. 

On another note, have you ever found yourself coveting something, visiting the website all the time just to look at it, thinking about all of the things that it could work with in your closet, but just cringing at the price? I've been searching for the right pair of brown shoes and after spying J. Crew Mona's in a lovely chestnut brown color, I was instantly smitten. But $200+ on a pair of simple, non-designer shoes (sorry, J. Crew, you just don't compare to say, Miu Miu) just felt so wrong. Imagine my delight at finding my new shoes on Gilt!! Pretty much the same color, easy to walk in heel and at waaaaayyy less than my original love. That was cause for a celebratory jig. :)

What has been your favorite "for less" find?

Outfit Details:

Burgundy top- J. Crew (similar here)

Orange knit skirt- Simply Vera Vera Wang

Patent leopard belt- J. Crew outlet

Scarf- Missoni (similar here and similar silk budget version here)

Burgundy handbag- Marc by Marc Jacobs "Natasha" (same bag in different colors here, different style in same color here)

Tan pumps- Seychelles "Code"- (same shoe different color here, similar in patent here)

Tan coat- Uniqlo (similar here and here)