Do you really need it?

I lost all of my clothes and shoes in a flood in 2010. I had to start my wardrobe over again and I was extremely limited on funds. It took two years for me to build it back up and even then, I always felt like something was missing.

My strategy had been to buy things on sale or clearance and not even touch anything that wasn't on sale. It was a good plan - kind of. It fit my budget at the time. I was able to purchase work and weekend wardrobe items for very little money. Some deals were great, but other things I wore just because they were cheap. Flats for $7.99? Sure. Dress for $10? I'll take it. Were they things I absolutely loved? Rarely. But at least I wasn't going naked...

In 2013, it dawned on me that I was doing this all wrong. My closet was packed. I had tons of shoes and clothes. I didn't really love anything. I had plenty to wear and didn't want to wear any of it. I was still in the habit of buying cheap, buying a lot. What if I took the money I would spend on two $10 dresses and buy a $20 dress?

I was in Target yesterday and immediately saw a blue & black Aztec sweater hanging in the clearance section. The price tag was $16 and some change. I immediately put in my shopping cart without thinking twice. Sure, I could browse the clearance racks and find two tops for $8, but why? I loved the sweater. Right now I'm typing this while wearing that lovely sweater and I have no regrets.

I find myself buying LESS these days, but I have MORE to love. It's easy to slip into the addiction of finding a "bargain", but usually that bargain goes in a pile with the rest of your bargains and doesn't bring too much joy.

The moral of my story is: buy what you love. Bargain shop, by all means, yes. Just realize the value of owning a piece you truly enjoy.

10 Trends I Can't Get Behind

There are a few trends I hate. Or maybe I just don't understand them? Either way, I thought I would share with you some things you'll never catch me wearing...

1. Animals on sweaters
Kittens, puppies, foxes, oh my! They are everywhere. I don't think I could wear one without feeling like I was eight years old again. I think that was cool back then, right? I don't know, but everything inside of me screams that this trend is not for me.

2. Galaxy leggings
Sure, my thighs might be as vast as the milky way, but I don't need the galaxy printed across them. Maybe I'm starting to show my age, but even ten years ago in my teens I don't think I would sport these bad boys.

 

3. Chunky heels

Hello, chunky heels. Please go back to the 90s where you belong! They might be easier to walk in than their stiletto counterparts, but they are so bulky and look sloppy. You're better off in flats. Or barefoot.

 



4. Platform sneakers - "Flatforms"
I first noticed these making a comeback after Miley Cyrus wore them. Um, that should be a clue enough. I wouldn't follow her fashion lead. These are not the least bit cute.

5. Cat flats
While we're on the subject of bad shoes, let's ask the questions, "why?", regarding cat flats, or whatever they're called. Are you supposed to wear them with your cat sweater?

6. Glitter sequin uggs
Boots with caked on glitter sequins or any shoes with caked on glitter remind me of a girly tin man.

7. Harem pants
This lady at my work wears harem pants but she doesn't weigh more than 90 pounds. These pants, however, make you look huge. You're not MC Hammer. Wear some jeans.

8. Striped pants
You're not Robin Thicke or Beetlejuice...and most jail inmates wear orange. So, please, step away from the stripes.

9. Leather / pleather tops
I can deal with just about anything leather besides leather shirts. They look hot and sticky and have no stretch to them. Biker gangs don't even wear them so you shouldn't either.

10. Studded / spiked shirts, bracelets, shoes, etc.
I'm a clumsy person and I don't want to fall and impale myself on my article of clothing. I could also potentially poke one of my eyes out or someone else's. That is just how my luck goes.

I will stop at 10. This is list is gag worthy enough!
(This post was not intended to offend. Fashion is always about your own personal sense of style and what works for you. Feel free to tell me what you hate/love in the comments.)

Little Black Dress Jewelry

Every lady should own a little black dress. But, how should you accessorize it?

I love statement necklaces. Black goes with virtually any color. You can be as daring (neon yellow) or as meek (silver) as you'd like to be. Jewelry can transform any outfit! Even a bland t-shirt can be transformed with a statement necklace or the right piece of jewelry.

Forever 21 has some seriously cute necklaces at great prices.

Statement faux stone necklace: here | Faux stone cluster: here | Modernist geo: here | Bejeweled bib: here | Opulent layered: here | Layered faux stone fringe: here | Bejeweled Opaque: here | Geo bib necklace: here | Glam faceted stone bib: here | Femme scalloped: here

These necklaces are affordable at under $15 a piece. You don't have to commit to a certain piece of jewelry (which I hate to do) due to the great prices.

There is just something about a statement necklace that makes me feel instantly put together!

What I Wore Today 10/28/13

Black top: here | Leopard dress: here | Boots: here | Necklace: here

Sometimes I wear my dresses as skirts! Well, I wear a shirt over them and no one knows the difference. :)  I always try to think of new ways to wear clothes and this is a great example.

I love leopard print but I try not to over do it. I limit myself to one leopard print piece per outfit. I keep the rest neutral or sometimes add a pop of color. I kept this outfit simple with black boot wedges and a dolman top. The necklace adds some sparkle. That's all I needed for this gloomy day.

What I Wore Today 10/22/13

Gap sweater dress | Gap footless sweater tights: here | Vince Camuto Holden booties: here | Chloe bow earrings: here

Today I wore a red and black striped sweater dress with ribbed footless tights and black booties.

It's a cold, rainy day. I usually wear booties on rainy days and they hold up well.

Lately, I've decided to try out footless tights when I wear boots. I like to wear tights in the fall and winter, but I hate putting them on! Something about the process drives me crazy. Footless tights seem to be working for me. They give off the same appearance but aren't so bad getting in and out of.

I have a thing for sweater dresses and this one really caught my eye. It's also polished enough to wear to the office.

Great Find: Pink & Brown Moccasins

 

I'm in love with moccasins this year! I've always loved them, ever since I was a little girl. I remember my grandmother having a pair and I remember loving the boots and slip ons.

Moccasins are so comfortable! You can wear them as house shoes or regular shoes... I'm guilty of both. They keep your feet warm and they're adorable, so why not?

I found a great pair today that I couldn't pass up. These brown and pink moccasins are so cute.

Click here to buy.

They have other varieties and it was really hard for me to chose. I'll probably also purchase the tan & blue ones and the sparkly leopard print pair.

They are fur lined with leopard print! They also form to your feet and didn't hurt certain spots on my heels or toes like some flats do.

I wear an 8 or 8 1/2, but I bought the size medium (7/8) and they're a perfect fit.

They are also inexpensive. I love a good buy!

For outfit ideas on how to wear moccasins, visit my blog post here.

White Tee Looks - Outfit Ideas

 

 

 

I think everyone owns a white t-shirt. However, I don't think white tees live up to their full potential. So many days I have left my white tee at home. Well, no more! I've came up with outfit ideas so my white t-shirts can get more on-air wear time.

 

REISS Daina Scoop Neck tee: here | Alice + Olivia Low-rise skinny jeans: here | Madewell Perfect Chambray: here | BCBGeneration Aries boot: here | Betsey Johnson Jet Set Bow Earrings: here

White tee, black skinnies (jeans or leggings), chambray top and black boots - instant outfit. This outfit looks put together and effortless. These are all basic pieces you probably have already.

Topshop Viscose tee: here | Topshop Wylde Faux Leather jacket: here | DI 1961 Amanda skinny jean: here | Michael Kors pippa flats: here | Kenneth Jay Lane Pearl Necklace: here | Michael Kors handbag: here

Leather jackets are awesome. I'm still on the hunt for *my* perfect one, but if you've already found yours, this outfit would be great for you. Add colored skinnies (like red!) and a white tee, with black flats (or heels!). A big statement necklace sweetens this outfit even more.

REISS Daina Scoop Neck tee: here | Ralph Lauren Blue Label Red Coastal Pleated skirt: here | Mango Nubuck sash belt: here | Michael Antonio Love Me Pump: here | Oscar De La Renta Gold Plated necklace: here

Your tee can be dressed up - no matter the color! Try it under a pleated chiffon skirt and cinch your waist with a belt. Add complimentary heels and a statement necklace. This outfit would be cute during the summer. Use warmer colors for fall!

American Vintage short sleeve V neck: here | Muubaa Persei leather pencil skirt: here | Merona Oxford Blazer: here | MOSCHINO Closed-toe slip-ons: here | Robert Chiarella Gold and Terracotta Diamond earring: here

Want to look professional but not bland? Try a white t-shirt, tan blazer, red leather pencil skirt, with deep brown heels. I'm in love with this outfit. Proof that you can wear a white t-shirt almost any where and any way!

Topshop Viscose tee: here | Bootcut jeans: here | Abstract Southwestern scarf Forever 21: here | Steve Madden Hocus boots: here | Tang and Song earrings: here

Throw on your favorite pair of jeans, white tee and a scarf, then you're out the door! Don't forget your boots though. I love the simplicity of this outfit.

Hopefully this post gave you a few ideas on how to pair your favorite white (or any other color) t-shirt!

What I Wore Today 10/16/13

Luckygold paddle necklace: here | Tees by Tina Smooth tank top: here | Artisan De Luxe Aztec Pullover Sweater: here | Aeropostale Foldover Combat boot: here | Refuge Charlotte Russe legging: here

Today was the first day I've worn my brown combat boots! It was a rainy, cold day and I thought they needed to come out to stomp through the mud puddles with me.

I wore my olive green skinnies with a camel brown tank top and brown aztec inspired sweater. The sweater is great because it has other fall colors mixed in, so you can wear it with endless outfits.

It was a comfy, but rainy day. I even got complimented that I look nice in brown. However, brown is a neutral, so I think everyone does!

What I Wore Today 10/10/13

Sometimes I like to keep my outfits simple. I also do not wear heels everyday! I have an office job, but some days I'm on my feet a lot due to various tasks.

Here is a simple outfit for the office:

Mossimo Ponte Striped Skirt: here | Forever 21 Classic Pointed Flats: here | Black long sleeved blouse: here | Charlotte Russe Stone Bib Necklace: here

Today I wore a black & white striped ponte skirt with a silk black blouse and black flats. To add some color, I wore a turquoise statement necklace.

An easy rule to follow for the office is - plain shoes, plain blouse, patterned skirt and colorful necklace. This outfit shows character and isn't too bland, but still professional.

What I Wore Today 10/9/13

Today I wore a simple but sophisticated outfit that was easy to pull together. This outfit is great for the office.

I chose a black pencil skirt, black cardigan and black wedge heels. I added a bright royal blue ruffled henley and necklace to add color to the outfit.

 

Blue ruffled henley: here | Black pencil skirt: here | Black cardigan: here | Black wedge heels: here

How to Wear Bows

I love bows! But, I'm not five anymore. Wayyyy past that, actually. I've found ways to still incorporate beloved bows without looking like a five year old.

Choose one "bow" statement piece. Preferably, not a huge bow headband or clip in (although they can look cute at times).

Here are some ideas:

Clockwise: Kate Spade New York Skinny Mini Bow Bangle Bracelet: here | RED Valentino Leather Bow Crossbody: here | Dolce & Gabbana sleeveless bow blouse: here | Bow studs similiar: here | Bow coat similiar: here | Stone bow and stripe jumper sweater: here | Charlotte Russe Sueded Side Bow Mary Jane Pump: here | Kate Spade New York Bow Ring: here | Bow to Stern Scarf in Mustard Dots by ModCloth: here | Steven by Steve Madden Envd Flat: here | Tatty Devine Bow Tie Necklace: here | Kate Spade New York Skinny Bow Belt: here

A bracelet, ring or necklace are all great options to incorporate bows into your wardrobe. Pick one piece to wear. Think grown-up and not "matchy".

Carry a purse with a bow on it! It's not part of your outfit, but it does make a statement.

Heels or flats (or boots!) are adorable with bows. They add a feminine touch and personality to any outfit.

Tie your favorite scarf in a bow or buy a scarf with a bow pattern.

Belts are also a cute way to add a bow to your outfit.

Sweaters, blouses and jackets with bow embellishments or subdued bow print are also a nice way to wear your childhood love of bows.

When you wear two or more bow pieces at once, it tends to looks childish. Be sure to just pick one piece.

....And that's how grown ups get away with wearing bows!

Moccasins - Outfit Ideas

I ruined my favorite pair of moccasins. My son's cub scout den took an impromptu hike through the woods and I happened to be wearing my beloved moccasins. It was muddy and the grass was high. Needless to say, the moccasins didn't survive - *tear*. I guess that's a good excuse to go shopping for a new pair though.

I've always had an immense love of moccasins. They're sooo warm and cozy! Now you can find them in so many colors and styles.

 

Clockwise: Blue/gray UGG moccasins: here | Brown Minnetonka moccasins: here | Purple Kate Spade amethyst moccasins: here | Black thunderbird moccasins: here | Black Sam Edelman moccasins: here | Tan SO moccasins: here | Orange Minnetonka moccasins: here | Beige Minnetonka moccasins: here

 

OUTFIT INSPIRATION:

Beige moccasins go with almost anything, like these boyfriend jeans, olive green shirt and beige jacket. Pair with statement jewelry and you have a classy, cozy outfit.

 

Black leggings, oversized sweater and a scarf go great with a pair of comfy moccasins. I love these Minnetonka moccasins with a beaded Thunderbird design.

These SO moccasins are fur-lined and will keep your feet warm! Pair with dark wash bootcut denim, lace top, dusty pink cardigan and scarf with cute, tear drop earrings.

 

 

Colored moccasins are awesome too. Acid wash skinnies, bejeweled collar tank top and oversized white sweater look great with a pop of color.

 

 

Where do you wear your moccasins?! (Hopefully not on hikes!)

Colors for Fall 2013

Truth be told, I am not feeling Pantone's Fall 2013 colors. Emerald green? Linden green? Acai (purple)?

They're not ugly colors, but I'm just not feeling them this autumn. I haven't seen many of these hues in stores.

You know the colors that keep popping up everywhere? See below -

These colors keep popping up everywhere I shop! Mustard yellow, maroon, olive green, teal, chocolate brown and dusty pink.

 

 

Don't be afraid to create your own fall pallette of colors. You don't have to follow the trends. You should dress for your body type and wear what YOU like, colors included! 

Rose Stud Earrings

 

Red: here | Mauve: here | Dusty pink: here | Coral: here

Colored rose stud earrings can be seen all over pinterest right now. They're popping up in polyvore spreads and in ear lobes of ladies across the world.

Average price? $60 to $8 a pair.

 

Let me take a moment to brag. I scored ALL of the above rose stud earrings for $1 total at the flea market this weekend! That's right: one dollar for twelve pairs. That is about eight cents a pair. Mind blowing!

Click here to read my post about how to find dollar jewelry.

Discount Jewelry at Flea Markets

 

 

Guess how much all of this jewelry cost!

$80? Not even close.
$55? No, try again.
$25? Nope.

Only $14!

My secret? I shop at the flea market.

Nashville, TN has a monthly flea market. It's where I buy almost all of my jewelry. The best part? There are three vendors who sale $1 jewelry. They have tents set up where everything is a dollar! It's insane, really. When I first discovered this, I felt like I was in heaven! It's not unusual for me to spend $60 and come home with 60 pieces. Yes, my jewelry collection is HUGE.

I love costume jewelry. I am too indecisive to save up to buy more expensive pieces. I like the freedom of wearing different jewelry everyday or something different with each outfit. No, all of the jewelry does not have top notch quality. You won't find a ring there to wear everyday for the next twenty years. Your necklace probably will not last ten years (it might!). Some things do break the first time you wear them. That has only happened to me less than 1% of the time though. I get at least a few wears out of every piece and I do have things I bought three years ago.

I get compliments all of the time on the jewelry I wear: necklaces, earrings and bracelets. No one can tell I only paid a dollar. Whenever I let people in on my little secret, they are shocked! You'd never know I only spent a dollar.

It's worth finding a local flea market where you live. If they don't have dollar jewelry, they may have antique pieces or handmade jewelry. It's worth spending a Saturday afternoon rummaging around. There also may be a dollar jewelry store in your area. Google search your city and "dollar jewelry" to see what you can come up with. If you're in the Tennessee area, I recommend you check out the Nashville flea market. I guarantee you'll find something you like!

Sweater Weather

Fall is here! It's getting colder and colder. Time to pull out your sweaters or have a shopping spree.

Last week, I ventured into my local Goodwill to see what sweaters they had that needed a good home. Their sweaters are only $5.99 and I found 2 sweater dresses for $7.99 but they were half off since it was red tag day. You cannot beat those prices for sweaters! I bought eight. Yup, guilty.

Another great place for sweaters is Ross. (Or is it Ross Dress for Less? I call it Ross.) I bought a gorgeous sweater dress there for $10.99! Their sweaters vary in price, but I bought two the other day for $13.99. Bargains, I tell ya!

 

Leopard print sweater similar: here | Burnt orange sweater similar: here | Zoe Karssen arrow sweater: here | Mint green sweater similar: here | Knit pullover similar: here | Cable knit sweater similar: here | Bow and stripe sweater: here | J. Crew Cashmere turtleneck sweater: here | Parisian black Aztec fluffy jumper: here | Mustard yellow sweater similar: here

10 Reasons You Should Own a Sweater:

1. They keep you warm. Obviously.
2. They come in different weights. There are heavy ones and lightweight ones.
3. You can dress a sweater up or dress a sweater down and still be comfy!
4. You can wear an oversized sweater with leggings, boots and a scarf and look instantly presentable.
5. You can layer sweaters and remove your sweater if you're too warm.
6. Sweaters are cute over button downs for the office.
7. They are cozy and make you want to read a book and drink hot cocoa.
8. You can find grandma's old sweaters at Goodwill and they're actually in style right now.
9. You can wear sweaters indoors while coats are sometimes less welcome. ("Take off your coat and stay awhile!")
10. Ugly sweaters can even make you the winner of an ugly sweater contest. (True story. I won an Ugly Christmas Sweater contest.)

10 Ways to Wear a Sweater:

Colored leggings add a pop of color to neutral accessories, lace up boots and a cream colored cable knit sweater. Patterned socks add detail and interest. This outfit appeals to your need to be cute and comfortable.

I adore Aztec ANYTHING so sweaters are no exception. Use an Aztec sweater as your focal piece, then stay neutral with the rest of your outfit. Black leggings, tan boots and a gold necklace finish this look.

Mix up your patterns! These bright blue patterned leggings pair well with this tan and black polka dot sweater. Add brown riding boots, neutral tone scarf and dangling earrings to complete your outfit.

This outfit is great for a chilly day at work. Black slacks, baby blue button down and a gray sweater with a bow necklace, gray boots and black Michael Kors handbag.

I love the mustard yellow and brown color combination. It gives off so much warmth. You can pair a sweater with a pencil skirt for fall. I love the shoes.

 

Wear a chambray under a bright colored light weight sweater. Pair with black slacks, dark gray flats and a multi-strand necklace. Another great office outfit for casual Friday. 

Wear boyfriend jeans with a bright scarf, patterned sweater and booties. This is a very popular look right now and easy to pull off.

 Wear a colorful button down under a striped sweater. Wear with dark wash jeans and tall boots. This is cute for work or an afternoon shopping.

A lightweight sweater can be worn with a flirty skirt and flats. This outfit looks cute with a pendant or statement necklace. I love the color combination of navy, yellow and brown.

This look is adorable for date night. It has girly charm. Wear a sweater over a dress with a collar and add flirty heels. Keep jewelry simple with diamond and pearl stud earrings.

 

 

Pull out those sweaters and wear away!