Notes from the Dressing Room-A Trifecta

A few weeks ago, I headed to the mall for a little retail therapy and had the chance to try on a few items from one of my favorite designers, Rachel Roy. Whether it is for her ready-to-wear line or her diffusion line at Macy's, there is always a perfect mix of color, pattern and interesting details that I can't help but love. Here are a few items for review:

Roxanna Top, $99, available here

I'm not much for off the shoulder tops because of the whole bra strap issue, but this little number was perfect because it is both off the shoulder and still has straps. I loved all of the colors in it and the flow of this top and I think it is extremely versatile in that it can work for the office with a blazer or cardi and if you need to go out after work, you just throw that topper off and this is ready to party. This gets a thumbs up! Fit is about tts, but you could size down for a fitter look.

The Crush Dress, $129, available here

There is that print again although now in skirt form. This dress is adorable with the flirty pleated skirt action and the draped top with a cute flower on the shoulder. I think this dress would be perfect for any of the festive activities going on for the rest of the year. Fit is tts. My only complaints about this one is that the drape might be a little too low for some modest ladies out there, the waist detail might look better if it started further down and if you are tall, this one might not be the one for you as it is kind of short.

Liza dress, $120, available here

There were sequins involved, how could I not try this one on!! This navy dress is also a perfect buy for any upcoming holiday events, a fun night out and definitely for a New Year's celebration. This is a shift dress so don't expect too much shape. I tried it on a size larger, but I would say it is tts. I just know I'm not the type to like clingy clothing, so sizing will depend on whether you want some va-va-voom or not. The sequins are attached to a netting that is layered on top of the main body of the dress. Sequins are one of those iffy wardrobe fabrics because of the high possibility of losing them, but this dress seemed well made and the color is dark enough to camouflage any disappearing sequins.

Shawl Collar Puffer, $179, available here

Do you feel like you are missing color from your coat/jacket selection? If so, this one is for you!! This jacket is a bright, traffic cone kind of orange so this will definitely get you noticed. It has a great wrap shape and fits well (tts). If you live in a cold climate, this is a no-go. This puffer jacket is more for looks than for protecting you against the elements because it is not thick at all. Overall, a nice jacket, but not practical.

Sleeveless Faux Fur Vest, $179, available here

I've been on the hunt for a faux-fur vest for awhile, but it has never been quite right. The bulk, the fit, the length, the color all have to be perfect. This one was high on the list. The "fur" is soft, it has a hook and eye closure for shape, it is not too bulky and I really like how the back makes it look like a regular vest. My only hesitation about it was the price, but it was certainly good enough for my wishlist. Fit is tts.

I hope you see something you like!! Do you have a dress for the holiday season ready? Have you found the perfect faux fur vest or jacket?

If you do see something that has caught your eye, Macy's has several items on sale and Rachel Roy is offering 20% off your order until 11/23. Happy shopping!

Snack Break: Should Be Working, Rather Be Shopping

It's Monday and I'd rather be on vacation. Since I'm not, let's go pretend shopping instead. Here are a few things that are tickling my fancy:

Rachel Zoe Asymmetrical Button Tie Waist Coat, $575, available here

Rachel Zoe has come out with a new collection and I am smitten. I saw a picture of this coat somewhere and absolutely loved it. The contrast of the black buttons and tie belt is perfect with the color of the coat. If I had $600 to spend on a coat, I would be all on this; even if I would probably not wear it often for fear of getting it dirty.

Rebecca Minkoff Covet Satchel in Cheetah, $495.00, available here

All I can think about is a leopard or cheetah print bag for fall. You all know I love myself some Rebecca Minkoff, so this would certainly go on my list.

Rachel Rachel Roy Pleated Aladdin Belt It! Dress, $149, available here

Another Rachel I heart is Rachel Roy. I saw this dress and immediately added to my cart. I love the color, the asymmetrical hemline, the way she put the bow on it to keep if from being a totally sack. My only issue would be that I can't really wear it with a blazer or cardigan when it gets colder because that would totally hide it's wonderful features.

Oh, Lola!, $48, available here

All you have to say is Marc Jacobs and I'm all on it. I've loved several of his perfume scents since he came on the make you smell good scene. Essence will always be my favorite of his, but the new version of Lola is wonderful and needs to take up residence on my dresser.

Kelly Wearstler Perforated Cuff, $225, available here

Kelly of the oh so colorful and glamorous interior design fame has a jewelry collection now. There are such interesting pieces and I think I likey very much!!

J. Crew Tweed Vintage Jacket in Mustard, $198, available here

Tweed!!! Oh, how I love you!!! It was destined that I would fall in love with this jacket, for sure.

West Elm Organic Bird Collage Duvet Cover and Shams, available here

I'm in a serious redecorating/reorganizing mood and new sheets are in order. I think this would make the bed look a little bit more fun, but not in a juvenile way.

Charlotte Olympia Tessa, way to much $$$, available here

Something to make me at least 4 inches taller than I am... yes, please!!! This is my color for fall. I want everything in a nice dark red/burgundy shade.



What do you have your eye right now???

OOTD- Working Double Duty

As I was viewing these photos, I noticed that my new pants had some weird crotch action going on. I would so be chastised by Michael Kors if these came down the Project Runway stage. However, that may have something to do with the fact that I gave my Rachel Rachel Roy dress extra work by acting as the top in my outfit. After wearing a dress as a tunic the other day, I was totally inspired.

Speaking of inspired, do you see the shoes I'm wearing? I found these designer shoes in the thrift store and thought they were pretty cute. I'm not enamored with the color though. After checking out an article in Lucky magazine about how to dye items in your wardrobe to give them a second life, I think I want to do that for these shoes.

So I ask, what color do you think I should dye these shoes?

Outfit Details:

Dress (as top)- Rachel Rachel Roy

Cardigan- Proenza Schouler for Target

Gray paperbag pants- Madewell

Gray handbag- Botkier

Lilac belt- J. Crew

Cream shoes- L'Autre Chose

OOTD- Going Super Duper High

I'm ages behind on the over-the-knee boot trend, but when there are concerns about venturing in Pretty Woman territory; I had to make sure this would be a lasting and appropriate purchase. I feel in love with these boots after spotting them on Noel from The Owls Are Not What They Seem. I peeked in LOFT one day at lunch and there they were, just waiting for me at a fantastic price. They make me feel super fly and not at all like a high price call girl waiting for Richard Gere to whisk her away in a limo to live happily ever after. Imagine that!!

What's your take on otk boots? Do you have a pair in your closet?

Outfit Details:
Blue blazer- Ralph Ralph Lauren (secondhand)
Printed dress- Rachel Rachel Roy
Pink studded belt- Matthew Williamson for H&M
Tan boots- LOFT

Outfit of the Day- Ink Spot

With summer determined to remain strong despite the calendar changing of the seasons, I'm forced to keep my warmer weather items still hanging in my closet. This makes my fashion life difficult when I want to wear blazers, tights and scarves. I'm trying to remain patient and get some use out of things that I love but don't wear too often like this Rachel Rachel Roy dress. I love that it has a million colors and my mother bought it for my birthday so I can't help but smile when I think of her lovely gift. It's perfect to get me through the next few 90 degree days. I'll be the one sweating, cursing out the heat and wishing for fall.

Outfit Details:

Dress- Rachel Rachel Roy (similar here)

Pink Cardigan- Madewell (similar here)

Yellow ribbon peep-toe shoes- Seychelles

Blue handbag- Forever 21 (available here)

Silver bracelet- mall kiosk

Ring- House of Harlow (available here)

Outfit of the Day- Going to Work in My Bday Dress

Today is the debut of my birthday dress!! And before you think that it's my birthday, I have to confess that it was many months ago, I'm just now getting around to wearing it. I couldn't resist the print when I saw it and thought it would be perfect for a birthday dinner. However, mother nature had other plans in mind and dumped a major snow storm in our region when my birthday came around. Oh well, such is the life of this winter baby. So I say, better late than never (thanks for the dress mom, you're awesome).

Had to make sure I was work appropriate and blasting a/c ready with the cardi

My shoes have a cute little bow on at the top, but still debating what color they are.

Still working on my front kick

Okay, I'm pooped. No more pictures!

P.S. My eyes are tired, I'm ready for lights out after an evening of baby-sitting two toddlers. Never underestimate the power of Dora the Explorer, lol.

Outfit Details:

Dress- Rachel Rachel Roy (via Macy's)

Yellow Cardigan- gift (via Target)

Yellowish or Greenish Peep Toe Flats- Seychelles (via Loehmann's for a great price of $13)

Metallic Blue Handbag- Rebecca Minkoff Morning After Clutch