To: You
From: Iris
Sunday, October 31, 2010
Friday, October 29, 2010
Exclusive Coupon Code: 10% Off At Overstock.com
Because blogging can be a business, I would just like to finish this post by saying that I did not receive any compensation for anything I said about this great store. But, I did get the coupon code for you all!
Thursday, October 28, 2010
October 27, 2010: What's Black and White and Red All Over?
That would be me. This is one of my favorite color combinations, a total classic! Sometimes I feel like I'm not being as creative when I rely on something so tried and true but, just can't help it... it totally works. What are you favorite color combinations?
- Top: white crochet neck top, LOFT (same shirt different color here, here, and here)
- Bottom: black knit pants, New York and Company
- Shoes & Accessories: faux patent leather red flats, American Eagle for Payless (same shoe different color here); silver bead earrings, Tiffany & Co.; yellow alley bag
Wicked Alternative
I don't know if it is the same all over the country/world but, in NYC when the weather starts to cool down and all the stylin' ladies are heading to the salon for their weekly mani/pedi they turn to the quitessential Essie shade Wicked. At this juncture of extreme budget-ness, I can't really afford to be one of those people and I'm ok with that. But, I still really love that look and have found while trying to do my own nails that Essie isn't really the greatest polish; blasphemous maybe but, still true. And so began my search for an alternative product...
I really like Sally Hansen Complete Salon Manicure but, they just don't have the right color. You know; a maroon that is almost bordering on black in certain lighting situations but, is definitely still maroon. I have tried a few different things and have finally found a good quality product that is the perfect color. I wanted to share it with all of you just in case you have been on the hunt like me, you're search is over!
I really like Sally Hansen Complete Salon Manicure but, they just don't have the right color. You know; a maroon that is almost bordering on black in certain lighting situations but, is definitely still maroon. I have tried a few different things and have finally found a good quality product that is the perfect color. I wanted to share it with all of you just in case you have been on the hunt like me, you're search is over!
Sally Hansen Maximum Growth Plus polish in Wholesome Earth is the closest thing that I have found to Wicked so far and I am loving the color. The polish is good quality, no serious chipping (impressive since I have a very keyboard keavy job) or streaking. The only thing that took some getting used to was the brush. I prefer something thicker but, once you get the hang of it that's not an issue at all. Unfortunatley while looking for a place to buy it online I learned that it has been discontinued! Bummer, I am fighting the urge to head back to Target and buy every bottle... I guess my search isn't really over.
Lots of bloggers have great advice for easy do-it-yourself manicures. My biggest piece of advice on that front is, practice makes perfect! Also, use good products. I'm not saying you have to go out there and buy extremely expensive things, just stuff that does a good job. I am loving Sally Hansen Complete Care 4-in-1; it is my basecoat, my topcoat, or just a clear polish on my in between days. I am on my second bottle guys, no joke, it's good stuff! Another thing that you can find at salons in the city is super quick dry drops because not all of them are set up with dryers. This is another product I recommend if you're like me and have the patience of a two year old. I have been searching for a good one for at least a year and was lucky enough to find some at the local drugstore, Revlon Liquid Quick Dry will save me from many future smudges! It's not instantaneous drying but, within five minutes or so things can be back to normal.
Because blogging can be a business, I would just like to finish this post by saying that I did not recieve any compensation for anything I said about these products. I purchased everything on my own and am just sharing my humble opinion.
Wednesday, October 27, 2010
October 26, 2010: A Day Late, A Dollar Short
Sorry for the delay. I am still having trouble acclimating to the CA/NY time difference. I'm sure I'll get back into my groove soon enough but, for the rest of this week I am going to be featuring the day before's outfit... what can I say? Life happens but, it should even out.
Yesterday I was focusing on comfort over everything. As I'm getting used to taking these outdoor pictures I followed a bit of advice from JoAnn of Sidewalk Chalk about posing in pictures, one foot in front of the other (life lessons people, life lessons) I need some balance before I attempt that again, I almost went down.
Yesterday I was focusing on comfort over everything. As I'm getting used to taking these outdoor pictures I followed a bit of advice from JoAnn of Sidewalk Chalk about posing in pictures, one foot in front of the other (life lessons people, life lessons) I need some balance before I attempt that again, I almost went down.
- Top: blue ruffled blouse, Atelier via Loehmanns; tank top underneath for the modesty
- Bottom: brown knit pants, New York and Company
- Shoes & Accessories: silver hardware embellished flats, Preview via Nordstrom Rack; labradorite necklace, V'ta Jewelry; labradorite earrings, Pennyweights; yellow alley bag
Monday, October 25, 2010
October 25, 2010: Unseasonably Warm
I was just getting on the boat for fall and today it is extremely warm... Make up your mind weather! I wanted to try out the tights and shorts thing that lots of people are rocking and so here it is higher temp or not. Now that I've done it I'm not sure that this is really working. I know generally the idea is not a bermuda short (per say) but, that's all I have to work with and that might be what seems off to me. Am I being too critical? Does this work or should I have styled it differently?
It also might be the fact that I am not feeling as comfortable in my clothes as I normally do. I have put on a few pounds (a few = 20+) between stress and not having time to eat properly over the past few months with this recent vacation as the cherry on top. Sufficed to say, I am feeling rather blah about how I'm feeling/looking and the way my clothes are fitting. I'll be honest, it's getting to the point where when I am looking at the pictures that I take (or that are taken of me) I am just looking for the one where I look the least bulge-y, it's not a good feeling. Am I the only one?
Not to get too personal but, I used to weigh alot more that I do now (almost 40 lbs. more that now) and I know now that keeping myself from gaining all that back has to be a daily conscious decision to eat the right things, go to the gym (which I haven't done in a while), and just generally be healthier. I also feel better when I am doing those things but either way, that hasn't been the case. Maybe saying it to all of you will push me to be more accoutable! No one is going to do this (being healthy thing) for me and if I want to keep on doing this (being a happy fun blogger thing) then I need to get that (first thing) straightened out. Besides, I can't really afford to buy any new (fat) clothes...
It also might be the fact that I am not feeling as comfortable in my clothes as I normally do. I have put on a few pounds (a few = 20+) between stress and not having time to eat properly over the past few months with this recent vacation as the cherry on top. Sufficed to say, I am feeling rather blah about how I'm feeling/looking and the way my clothes are fitting. I'll be honest, it's getting to the point where when I am looking at the pictures that I take (or that are taken of me) I am just looking for the one where I look the least bulge-y, it's not a good feeling. Am I the only one?
Not to get too personal but, I used to weigh alot more that I do now (almost 40 lbs. more that now) and I know now that keeping myself from gaining all that back has to be a daily conscious decision to eat the right things, go to the gym (which I haven't done in a while), and just generally be healthier. I also feel better when I am doing those things but either way, that hasn't been the case. Maybe saying it to all of you will push me to be more accoutable! No one is going to do this (being healthy thing) for me and if I want to keep on doing this (being a happy fun blogger thing) then I need to get that (first thing) straightened out. Besides, I can't really afford to buy any new (fat) clothes...
- Top: pink flutter trim blouse, LOFT/birthday gift from Mom; gray flyaway cardigan, New York & Company
- Bottom: black bermuda shorts, dear for Steve & Barry's
- Shoes & Accessories: black pumps, Candies via Kohl's; silver bead earrings, Tiffany & Co.; black spy bag, Fendi
Items from this outfit are previously seen here:
Saturday, October 23, 2010
Update: I Complete You Product Challenge
So, we're here again: I've finished something else. Black Amethyst (the fragrance from Bath & Body Works, not the real deal) is one of my favorite smells especially in the cooler weather. It has a more sultry scent that says I'm bundled up in sweaters and tights and still kinda sexy. O, that's not what it says to you? Fine, maybe someone is a little off today! We digress... I have been wearing it like crazy as the temperatures drop and went through what I had left in this bottle pretty quickly. But, I see something lurking in the shadows... what could it be?
Check out my progress here
Hmm... another bottle. I don't mean to complain but, sometimes this challenge seems a little insurmountable. I'm all for having extra of a good thing but, my extra amounts can be daunting. Are there any products that you keep multiples of on hand? This specific situation I can explain, someone (me) must have sent out a bulletin said when asked about gifts last Christmas that this was one of my fav smells and I got a few lotions as gifts. When I finish this challenge (if that ever happens) I would totally buy this smell again; like I said before, it's one of my favorites. What are you're favorite fragrances?
I also lost deodorant on my way back from California. I don't know if I left it in BF's parent's house or the hotel we stayed at in Vegas but, it is MIA. At least it didn't lose it on my way there, eek! But, if that had been the case I would not have spend a week without deodorant, I would have followed my own advice, not panic, and head to the local CVS.
I also lost deodorant on my way back from California. I don't know if I left it in BF's parent's house or the hotel we stayed at in Vegas but, it is MIA. At least it didn't lose it on my way there, eek! But, if that had been the case I would not have spend a week without deodorant, I would have followed my own advice, not panic, and head to the local CVS.
Check out my progress here
Friday, October 22, 2010
October 22, 2010: No Rest
But, I'm not wicked... I've just got alot of catching up to do post vacation. What up with that? You take a vacation to refresh yourself but when you get back to work/home things are busier than ever. Don't get me wrong, I wouldn't have changed going on vacation but, I think that whole phenomenon is pretty ironic. Craziness... I'm sure I would not be able to deal with this if I hadn't taken a break!
On another note, my curly hair is finally getting into it's groove! It's been more than two months since I let it be itself but, it wasn't quite right. There were still some straight bits in the front that wouldn't go back to normal until today, that is... What do you think?
Items from this outfit are previously seen and remixed here, here, here, here, here, here and here:
On another note, my curly hair is finally getting into it's groove! It's been more than two months since I let it be itself but, it wasn't quite right. There were still some straight bits in the front that wouldn't go back to normal until today, that is... What do you think?
- Top: teal cable knit sweater, LOFT
- Bottom: trouser jeans, GAP outlet
- Shoes & Accessories: brown/black snake embossed ballet flats, Xhiliration for Target; multi-stone tiered earrings, handmade in Peru/local store; purple tote bag, Coach outlet
Items from this outfit are previously seen and remixed here, here, here, here, here, here and here:
Friend Friday: Product Placement
1. As we watched the Chilean Miners being rescued last week, there were many things to take note of - the amazing faith of these people, the joy of life, love and family, and - interestingly enough - product placement. As you watched the rescue efforts did you notice the products? What were your thoughts?
Honestly, the only brand I remember from all the news is Oakley. They made those snazzy sunglasses that the miners wore to protect their eyes from UV rays as they acclimated back to normal life. I thought it was a little taboo when they started talking about where you could buy a pair for yourself if you wanted. I guess either way they succeeded promoting themselves...
2. Product placement is all around us today, what do you think makes it such a marketing gold mine?
I think people like to buy what they are familiar and comfortable with. If they see someone using something, even if it isn't in person, they are more inclined to try it. It's like when a friend tells you about a wonderful experience they had with a certain thing, you would probably lean more towards that if you needed to based on the good review and prior exposure to the brand.
3. On your blog, either now or in the future, what is/will be your stance on highlighting specific products?
I wouldn't mind highlighting specific things if they are a product, or company for that matter, that works with 260 Days, No Repeats. I would assume that I or the readers would in some way be compensated but, that doesn't matter if it is a product that stinks or doesn't really have anything to do with what we are all interested in i.e: ratchet set.
4. If the opportunity arose would you give a bad review of a product?
I suppose if it wasn't a good one then I would.
5. Do you view your blog as a product? Where have you or do you hope to place it?
I don't view it as a product but, I like the to think of it as an outlet. I have tried to put it out there in as places as I can (so many so that sometimes I wonder if I have spread myself too thin) so that I can introduce it to more people!
Honestly, the only brand I remember from all the news is Oakley. They made those snazzy sunglasses that the miners wore to protect their eyes from UV rays as they acclimated back to normal life. I thought it was a little taboo when they started talking about where you could buy a pair for yourself if you wanted. I guess either way they succeeded promoting themselves...
2. Product placement is all around us today, what do you think makes it such a marketing gold mine?
I think people like to buy what they are familiar and comfortable with. If they see someone using something, even if it isn't in person, they are more inclined to try it. It's like when a friend tells you about a wonderful experience they had with a certain thing, you would probably lean more towards that if you needed to based on the good review and prior exposure to the brand.
3. On your blog, either now or in the future, what is/will be your stance on highlighting specific products?
I wouldn't mind highlighting specific things if they are a product, or company for that matter, that works with 260 Days, No Repeats. I would assume that I or the readers would in some way be compensated but, that doesn't matter if it is a product that stinks or doesn't really have anything to do with what we are all interested in i.e: ratchet set.
4. If the opportunity arose would you give a bad review of a product?
I suppose if it wasn't a good one then I would.
5. Do you view your blog as a product? Where have you or do you hope to place it?
I don't view it as a product but, I like the to think of it as an outlet. I have tried to put it out there in as places as I can (so many so that sometimes I wonder if I have spread myself too thin) so that I can introduce it to more people!
Thursday, October 21, 2010
October 21, 2010: Memory Lapse
Today I am operating on very little sleep and am delirious! I must be because I seem to have forgotten that it is pretty darn cold outside and am wearing an outfit that could/would probably work for spring or early summer. Note to self, check the weather before getting dressed. I should be fine once I get to my office, hopefully... On another note, I don't mean to look a gift horse in the mouth (where did that saying come from? O, here's something on that) but, since when is tomorrow Friday?
Items from this outfit are previously seen here and here:
- Top: yellow short sleeved sweater, GAP
- Bottom: brown plaid capris, New York and Company
- Shoes & Accessories: silver cut out flats, Merona for Target (similar and on sale here, I should have picked them up while they still had them in my size as a replacement. These are falling apart...) FYI if you pick up the the October 2010 edition of Real Simple there is a 20% off Merona coupon in there, or you could just rip it out at the grocery checkout... either way!; silver bead earrings, Tiffany & Co.; brown leather tote bag, Bulga
Items from this outfit are previously seen here and here:
Wednesday, October 20, 2010
October 20, 2010: Monochromatic Half
I am feeling a little warmer today, acclimating to these Northeast temps isn't going as badly as I thought it would yesterday. Maybe these tights are what's doing the trick. I have definitely partaken in this monochromatic thing before in black but, this is my first foray into the brown tones, next stop purple... maybe.
I'm at another job fair today and am finding the difference among schools/organizations fairly evident. These people don't need my advice as much as others...
- Top: orange dolman sleeve top, Xhiliration for Target
- Bottom: brown jersey knit skirt, Old Navy
- Shoes & Accessories: brown/black snake embossed ballet flats, Xhiliration for Target; multi colored beaded necklace, LOFT/b-day gift from Mom; brown leather tote bag, Bulga
Tuesday, October 19, 2010
October 19, 2010: Hit The Ground Running
It's good to be back! No, not from vacation... to the blog! I wish I was still in California (they have the internet there too, I could have made it work) but, I digress... Hopefully I'll get back into the swing of things AKA not take tomorrow's picture in the hallway but, transitioning back to normal life is harder that I remember! Today, I need to make it work because it is back to the office this morning and then to a committee meeting this evening.
Please forgive the pajama-like outfit, with all these things I have to take care of I appreciate/need the comfort while tihngs get back to normal! Plus, I'm not used to this chilly weather quite yet but, I am going be inspired by Nina and Lyddiegal's advice and layer! What are your tips for dressing in the falling temperatures?
Please forgive the pajama-like outfit, with all these things I have to take care of I appreciate/need the comfort while tihngs get back to normal! Plus, I'm not used to this chilly weather quite yet but, I am going be inspired by Nina and Lyddiegal's advice and layer! What are your tips for dressing in the falling temperatures?
- Top: red ribbed tank top, GAP; gray flyaway cardigan, New York & Company
- Bottom: brown and red pinstripe pants, New York & Company (these are one of the pairs of pants that I needed to lengthen and let the cuffs down, how do you think they came out?)
- Shoes & Accessories: gray suede-ish kitten heel shoes, Mossimo for Target; turquoise and silver earrings, Pennyweights; turquoise and silver cross necklace; black Spy Bag, Fendi
Monday, October 18, 2010
And The Winner Is...
SHALA_DARKSTONE!!! Congratulations! I will be in touch shortly with your prize. Thanks to everyone who participated. I'm hoping to be able to bring you many more giveaways as 260 Days, No Repeats continues to grow and I hope you'll stick around to take part in the as well! 
The Roundup: 6 Months
As I mentioned before October is the sixth month of my personal style challenge so far and it's not slowing down! I am having a blast making my wardrobe work for myself while continuing to save money! In the past three months I have worn an additional 54 outfits to work utilizing 29 never before seen tops, 9 new to you dresses, 4 pairs of pant like things, 9 not worn yet skirts, 2 new pairs of jeans. I also utilized 4 additional pairs of shoes, 12 pairs of earrings, and 4 new handbags. I think it will get more difficult as the weather starts to cool down, I feel like I don't have as much clothes that is suited for this type of weather. At the same time, I'm pretty sure I said something like that when I finished my first three months...
In the past three months I have spent $79.60 on clothing and accessories. The number is a little high because it was my birthday and I treated myself but, I don't think it is unreasonable at all. There was even one month of no purchases! The grand total for the past 6 months is $125.60. I can't imagine that I have spent that little on clothes in quite some time and I'm ok with that. Hopefully I can stick with it!
I also participated in an additional three challenges (two of my own design.) I welcome all those that have joined me and shopped their own closet for fall trends, as well as, completing their products. I hope that more people continue to do so with the latter, I appreciate the company and there is a good reason to participate in that one. I also did my first closet makeover for a friend, it was so much fun!
Thank you so much for all the comments and support, it totally keeps me going as I move closer to the end of this year. I can't wait to see how it all turns out!
In the past three months I have spent $79.60 on clothing and accessories. The number is a little high because it was my birthday and I treated myself but, I don't think it is unreasonable at all. There was even one month of no purchases! The grand total for the past 6 months is $125.60. I can't imagine that I have spent that little on clothes in quite some time and I'm ok with that. Hopefully I can stick with it!
I also participated in an additional three challenges (two of my own design.) I welcome all those that have joined me and shopped their own closet for fall trends, as well as, completing their products. I hope that more people continue to do so with the latter, I appreciate the company and there is a good reason to participate in that one. I also did my first closet makeover for a friend, it was so much fun!
Thank you so much for all the comments and support, it totally keeps me going as I move closer to the end of this year. I can't wait to see how it all turns out!
Sunday, October 17, 2010
Guest Post: Chic on the Cheap - Dressing For Fall
While I am away on my wonderful (and much needed) vacation I have asked a few of my favorite bloggers to step in and write guest posts. I asked each of them to come up with their own topic and post that they felt fit with what I am doing here over at 260 Days, No Repeats. I am loving what they have come up with! Today I am pleased to have Lyddiegal from Chic on the Cheap give you some tips on how to dress for the fall. I'll need these tips for when I return! I will be back to regular blogging on October 19th, 'till then...
Hi, I'm Lyddie from Chic on the Cheap stepping in for Iris while she's away. Hope you enjoy my post!
Sometime, during the heydays of summer, fall clothes start appearing and putting us into a trance-like state, when we suddenly stop wanting beaches and sunsets and start wishing for those cool crisp autumn days with bright orange foliage, gentile breezes and that fall scent in the air.
Well, summer rushes by in an instant, and we fill our closets with all those trendy fall items; sweaters with cropped sleeves, leather shorts, peep toe booties, fingerless gloves! And that first perfect day arrives -- it's just cool enough to wear your new things, but not so cold that your bare arms, legs, fingers and toes mind. This doesn't last. You quickly remember what fall really is. Dark, cold, often wet and suddenly you have nothing to wear.
The last few weeks I feel like I have been stripped of any motivation to get dressed. For every beautiful fall day I've enjoyed, I have had to endure six grey, rainy days - days when the last thing I feel like doing is getting dressed. I want to be cute, I want to be trendy -- but mostly, I want to be warm!
My solution is this; knee high boots, opera length leather gloves and scarves to help cover any gaps left by trendy fall clothing!
Add my wool coat to the mix during the evenings, and things are perfect. Now if only I could find a way to have my clothes warmed in the morning so getting dressed wouldn't feel so torturous.
The Rundown
Leopard Sweater Calvin Klein - Pants TJMaxx - Boots Migliorini - Scarf Market in Italy - Gloves Gift - Clutch Giveaway at Lemondrop Vintage
Don't forget to enter the giveaway!
Hi, I'm Lyddie from Chic on the Cheap stepping in for Iris while she's away. Hope you enjoy my post!
Sometime, during the heydays of summer, fall clothes start appearing and putting us into a trance-like state, when we suddenly stop wanting beaches and sunsets and start wishing for those cool crisp autumn days with bright orange foliage, gentile breezes and that fall scent in the air.
Well, summer rushes by in an instant, and we fill our closets with all those trendy fall items; sweaters with cropped sleeves, leather shorts, peep toe booties, fingerless gloves! And that first perfect day arrives -- it's just cool enough to wear your new things, but not so cold that your bare arms, legs, fingers and toes mind. This doesn't last. You quickly remember what fall really is. Dark, cold, often wet and suddenly you have nothing to wear.
The last few weeks I feel like I have been stripped of any motivation to get dressed. For every beautiful fall day I've enjoyed, I have had to endure six grey, rainy days - days when the last thing I feel like doing is getting dressed. I want to be cute, I want to be trendy -- but mostly, I want to be warm!
My solution is this; knee high boots, opera length leather gloves and scarves to help cover any gaps left by trendy fall clothing!
Add my wool coat to the mix during the evenings, and things are perfect. Now if only I could find a way to have my clothes warmed in the morning so getting dressed wouldn't feel so torturous.
The Rundown
Leopard Sweater Calvin Klein - Pants TJMaxx - Boots Migliorini - Scarf Market in Italy - Gloves Gift - Clutch Giveaway at Lemondrop Vintage
Don't forget to enter the giveaway!
Saturday, October 16, 2010
Friend Friday: Blogging Baby Steps
I know, I know I'm on vacation but, I love sharing these answers with you guys! Plus, my 200th post had to belong to me. I'll be back to regular blogging on the 19th, 'till then I hope your having fun with all these fantastic guest bloggers.
1. How has your blog changed over the months/years you've been blogging?
I think I have started to add a little more to 260 Days, No Repeats by supplementing daily outfit posts with some weekend or night out wear. I also have a few posts where I answer questions or give advice. I definitely think about mentioning sales or deals but, it doesn't really seem consistent with the original idea behind this blog or the direction that it's going... It is very different from previous blogs I had.
2. What was one thing you did wrong in the beginning and how have you changed that?
My photography has gotten way better. At first I didn't think it was a big deal to have my pictures taken in a hallway of my apartment but, now I see that the outdoor scenery adds so much! Much thanks to BF for taking my picture outside, hopefully I can work up the courage to traipse out there with my tripod and do it myself so I can stop bugging him.
3. When you visit a blog what's the greatest turn off? The thing that makes you close the tab?
If there is music, that is an immediate exit. I had often thought about adding music to my blog but, I realized quickly just like I don't want to hear you favorite tunes you probably don't want to hear mine... I also don't appreciate when there is so much going on on the page that I can't find what you wrote, I'm not there to learn about whatever products your hawking, I want to hear what you have to say! also, if the blog isn't updated regularly, there are some times when I'm hoping a blogger will come back and I had been reading them for a while before they departed but, if I am just stumbling across your blog now and you have been absent for the past 6 months why would I ever come back?
4. How did you find your voice?
I think in previous blogging excursions I was too busy trying to sound engaging and happy that I probably ended up sounding like an infomercial host or used car salesman. Now, I just type what I'm feeling or what I would be saying if you and I were sitting in a Starbucks grabbing a cup of coffee. I think this works alot better for people, they want to know about the real you.
5. If you had three pieces of advice to give to a new blogger what would those be?
Talk about what you like, not what you think other people want to hear about. There will be a noticeable difference in quality.
Update regularly! We miss you when you're gone... I try to have at least one post a day during the week and maybe one on the weekends. If you can manage more than that, I think no more than three posts a day would be ideal.
Make friends and reach out to other bloggers, they can offer you a world of advice and feedback that could be really useful to someone who is just starting out.
1. How has your blog changed over the months/years you've been blogging?
I think I have started to add a little more to 260 Days, No Repeats by supplementing daily outfit posts with some weekend or night out wear. I also have a few posts where I answer questions or give advice. I definitely think about mentioning sales or deals but, it doesn't really seem consistent with the original idea behind this blog or the direction that it's going... It is very different from previous blogs I had.
2. What was one thing you did wrong in the beginning and how have you changed that?
My photography has gotten way better. At first I didn't think it was a big deal to have my pictures taken in a hallway of my apartment but, now I see that the outdoor scenery adds so much! Much thanks to BF for taking my picture outside, hopefully I can work up the courage to traipse out there with my tripod and do it myself so I can stop bugging him.
3. When you visit a blog what's the greatest turn off? The thing that makes you close the tab?
If there is music, that is an immediate exit. I had often thought about adding music to my blog but, I realized quickly just like I don't want to hear you favorite tunes you probably don't want to hear mine... I also don't appreciate when there is so much going on on the page that I can't find what you wrote, I'm not there to learn about whatever products your hawking, I want to hear what you have to say! also, if the blog isn't updated regularly, there are some times when I'm hoping a blogger will come back and I had been reading them for a while before they departed but, if I am just stumbling across your blog now and you have been absent for the past 6 months why would I ever come back?
4. How did you find your voice?
I think in previous blogging excursions I was too busy trying to sound engaging and happy that I probably ended up sounding like an infomercial host or used car salesman. Now, I just type what I'm feeling or what I would be saying if you and I were sitting in a Starbucks grabbing a cup of coffee. I think this works alot better for people, they want to know about the real you.
5. If you had three pieces of advice to give to a new blogger what would those be?
Talk about what you like, not what you think other people want to hear about. There will be a noticeable difference in quality.
Update regularly! We miss you when you're gone... I try to have at least one post a day during the week and maybe one on the weekends. If you can manage more than that, I think no more than three posts a day would be ideal.
Make friends and reach out to other bloggers, they can offer you a world of advice and feedback that could be really useful to someone who is just starting out.
Guest Post: alltumbledown - Transitioning To Fall
While I am away on my wonderful (and much needed) vacation I have asked a few of my favorite bloggers to step in and write guest posts. I asked each of them to come up with their own topic and post that they felt fit with what I am doing here over at 260 Days, No Repeats. I am loving what they have come up with! Today I am pleased to have Nina from alltumbledown give you some tips on transitioning your wardrobe from warmer to cooler weather. I'll need these tips for when I return! I will be back to regular blogging on October 19th, 'till then...
Hi there, 260 Days, No Repeats readers! I'm Nina and I blog over at alltumbledown: a modest attempt at style.While Iris is off sunning herself in California, I am still stuck in New York. Not that New York is a bad place to live (ok, I pretty much love it), but dressing for the transition into fall can be a bit of a challenge! With rain and 20-degree shifts in temperature over the course of 1 day, I definitely struggle with getting dressed. Here are some of my go to almost-cold weather tips:
1. Mix winter and summer clothing. No, not Uggs and a miniskirt, but here are a few ways to mix winter and summer to equal fall. Both of the outfits below are summer skirts mixed with some heavier pieces- a cashmere sweater and boots, or tights and a blazer.
2. A continuation of a theme you see above: scarves, scarves, scarves! Collect them in all colors, shapes and patterns. Light scarves are great to wear all day, while heavier ones will help you on a frigid subway car or while walking to get coffee. Don't be afraid to add a patterned scarf to a patterned outfit-- as long as they have some colors in common, it will look fab.
Hi there, 260 Days, No Repeats readers! I'm Nina and I blog over at alltumbledown: a modest attempt at style.While Iris is off sunning herself in California, I am still stuck in New York. Not that New York is a bad place to live (ok, I pretty much love it), but dressing for the transition into fall can be a bit of a challenge! With rain and 20-degree shifts in temperature over the course of 1 day, I definitely struggle with getting dressed. Here are some of my go to almost-cold weather tips:
1. Mix winter and summer clothing. No, not Uggs and a miniskirt, but here are a few ways to mix winter and summer to equal fall. Both of the outfits below are summer skirts mixed with some heavier pieces- a cashmere sweater and boots, or tights and a blazer.
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| Pink Camel |
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| Thanksgiving |
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| Unseasonable Season |
3. Creative outerwear. Wearing the same trench every.single.day? Try throwing a bulky sweater on as outerwear. It provides a good amount of warmth and keeps things interesting. Too much volume? Throw a belt on to cinch it in.
Hope these tips have inspired you to brave the fall weather with style!
Don't forget to enter the giveaway!
Don't forget to enter the giveaway!
Friday, October 15, 2010
Guest Post: Money Smart Fashion - From Work to Weekend
While I am away on my wonderful (and much needed) vacation I have asked a few of my favorite bloggers to step in and write guest posts. I asked each of them to come up with their own topic and post that they felt fit with what I am doing here over at 260 Days, No Repeats. I am loving what they have come up with! Today I am pleased to have Grace Croshaw from Money Smart Fashion give you some tips on making your wardrobe do double duty for work and weekends. I will be back to regular blogging on October 19th, 'till then...
You thought I was going to say summer to fall! Muha tricked you! Hehe Anyway, Greetings 260 Days, No Repeats readers, I'm Grace! You can normally find me over at my blog, Money Smart Fashion, but I was beyond excited when Iris asked me to fill in for her while she was away. I love how Iris's goal is to look great at work every day within the confines of a professional dress code and without spending tons of cash. Because let's face it, not all of us can stay home and blog for a living, myself included.
Currently I am blessed with a pretty liberal dress code however my first job out of college was a different story. I too was bound by a professional dress code that frowned upon individual creativity. The first couple months I was actually excited by it. The thought of wearing heels and blazers, and suits was thrilling. I felt like I had finally made it to adulthood, I realized quickly the grass is always greener. The dress code had such an effect on me that I started subconsciously dividing my closet into two mutually exclusive categories-work and weekend. The items in my closet were in one category or the other, never both, which was draining me mentally and financially. I was ultimately buying twice the clothes to satiate my two needs, when really all I needed was a lot of items that could do double duty.
So in the spirit of having fun and saving money, here are some tips on how to make your work clothes "work" for you:
- Use a button-down to layer up on weekends.
- Dress a lightweight cotton blazer up or down
- Add a animal-print shoe for visual interest
- Wear relaxed trousers as an alternative to jeans on the weekend
- Keep remixing and reinventing
Well, that’s all I’ve got. You guys have been awesome. I hope you didn’t mind me filling in for Iris and if you like what you saw (insert shameless plug here), come visit me on my blog!
Thursday, October 14, 2010
Guest Post: Unravelled Threads - Mom Essentials
While I am away on my wonderful (and much needed) vacation I have asked a few of my favorite bloggers to step in and write guest posts. I asked each of them to come up with their own topic and post that they felt fit with what I am doing here over at 260 Days, No Repeats. I am loving what they have come up with! Today I am pleased to have Melanie from Unravelled Threads give the moms out there some tips on dressing their best. I will be back to regular blogging on October 19th, 'till then...
I was discussing mom-appropriate fashion with a very close friend of mine this week. Both her mom and mine are in their mid-to-late 40’s and sometimes have trouble in the fashion department. So, here’s a short list of mom-fashion dos and don’ts.
1. DO wear your favorite color.
You feel great in it and if you feel great about how you look, it shows!
2. DON’T fall for all the latest trends.
80’s fashion, for some unknown reason, is making a comeback (think: fluorescent tees and leggings as pants). I hate to break it to you, but these fashions only work if you weren’t yet born in the 80’s. That means you, too, colored denim!
3. DO try one trend, if you’re the adventurous type.
Animal prints can be very tasteful if done right. Try finding a leopard print scarf or wear a trench coat with a zebra-printed lining. I will say that I think small prints work better than big prints.
4. DON’T forget your belt.
Really. When in doubt, add a belt. Whether it’s through the loops in your pants or worn up at your natural waist, it instantly adds a level of coolness to your outfit.
5. DO layer.
There is nothing chicer than a ruffled blouse under a pretty cardigan, belted.
6. DON’T forget your closet essentials.
That means your classic, crisp (that means ironed!) white button-down and dark denim.
7. DO try straight-leg and flare-leg jeans.
Sorry, mom. I don’t care how hot you are. Skinny jeans are a no-no. Besides, they have the potential of making you look short.
8. DON’T forget your LBD.
There are few things more versatile than your little black dress. It’s one that fits and makes you feel awesome. Make sure you find one that looks good on your body type, whether that means finding one with sleeves or ruching.
9. DO find a fitted blazer.
These are an absolute closet staple. Find yourself a nice navy or black one that fits you perfectly. You’ll be surprised at how many things it can be worn with. Everything from your white button down (if you don’t have one of these, stop reading right now and go get one)
There is nothing prettier, or more youthful than a smile. I cannot count the number of times I have walked by someone on the street, young or old, and shot them a friendly smile only to see their face completely light up with their very own smile.
I was discussing mom-appropriate fashion with a very close friend of mine this week. Both her mom and mine are in their mid-to-late 40’s and sometimes have trouble in the fashion department. So, here’s a short list of mom-fashion dos and don’ts.
1. DO wear your favorite color.
You feel great in it and if you feel great about how you look, it shows!
2. DON’T fall for all the latest trends.
80’s fashion, for some unknown reason, is making a comeback (think: fluorescent tees and leggings as pants). I hate to break it to you, but these fashions only work if you weren’t yet born in the 80’s. That means you, too, colored denim!
3. DO try one trend, if you’re the adventurous type.
Animal prints can be very tasteful if done right. Try finding a leopard print scarf or wear a trench coat with a zebra-printed lining. I will say that I think small prints work better than big prints.
4. DON’T forget your belt.
Really. When in doubt, add a belt. Whether it’s through the loops in your pants or worn up at your natural waist, it instantly adds a level of coolness to your outfit.
5. DO layer.
There is nothing chicer than a ruffled blouse under a pretty cardigan, belted.
6. DON’T forget your closet essentials.
That means your classic, crisp (that means ironed!) white button-down and dark denim.
7. DO try straight-leg and flare-leg jeans.
Sorry, mom. I don’t care how hot you are. Skinny jeans are a no-no. Besides, they have the potential of making you look short.
8. DON’T forget your LBD.
There are few things more versatile than your little black dress. It’s one that fits and makes you feel awesome. Make sure you find one that looks good on your body type, whether that means finding one with sleeves or ruching.
9. DO find a fitted blazer.
These are an absolute closet staple. Find yourself a nice navy or black one that fits you perfectly. You’ll be surprised at how many things it can be worn with. Everything from your white button down (if you don’t have one of these, stop reading right now and go get one)
10. DON’T forget to smile.
There is nothing prettier, or more youthful than a smile. I cannot count the number of times I have walked by someone on the street, young or old, and shot them a friendly smile only to see their face completely light up with their very own smile.
Wednesday, October 13, 2010
Guest Post: The Joy Of Fashion - Working One Item
While I am away on my wonderful (and much needed) vacation I have asked a few of my favorite bloggers to step in and write guest posts. I asked each of them to come up with their own topic and post that they felt fit with what I am doing here over at 260 Days, No Repeats. I am loving what they have come up with! Today I am pleased to have Marie McGrath from The Joy of Fashion discuss her formulas for remixing like a pro. I will be back to regular blogging on October 19th, 'till then...
Hello everyone!! My name is Marie McGrath and I have a little happy blog called The Joy of Fashion. I was so flattered when Iris contacted me to write a post on her wonderful blog, so of course I agreed!
I thought it would be fun to show you different ways in which you could wear one item. In this case, I will show how versatile a colorful skirt can be. Any skirt with several colors would work for all the following ideas. Hope you like them!
1. Try wearing the skirt with a funky color combo! Just take two colors from the skirt and wear them somewhere in your outfit! In my case, I used a bright yellow top and a bright blue scarf as a belt. Then all you have to do is keep the rest of the outfit neutral.
2. Or why not try pairing the colorful skirt with colorful tights for a bold statement look! Just pick a color from your skirt and wear tights in that color. I would recommend keeping the rest of the outfit neutral to not overdo it.
3. No colored tights? Well why don't you try some patterned ones! Pattern mixing is always very fashion forward for those of you who feel bold enough to give it a try. The pattern mixing shouldn't compete with anything else, so keep the rest of the outfit simple (like I did with the simple green turtleneck and neutral accessories).
4. A more subtle option is to pair it with a feminine white top and a pop of color in the shoes. In this case, I paired the colorful skirt with a white lace ruffle top. Then I kept things interesting by adding some bright blue shoes! Make sure the color of the shoes comes from somewhere in your skirt.
5. This skirt can also be very work appropriate by just pairing it with a collar shirt. I would recommend wearing a colorful collar shirt like this green one I am wearing (which combines with the green in the skirt). You could also add a little cardi if your office is cold. Pair it with some sophisticated shoes and accessories and voila! Work chic!
And those are my 5 different looks with one same skirt. The possibilities are truly endless when it comes to a colorful skirt because there are so many colors to work with! So go ahead and give it a try! How would you wear a colorful skirt like this?
For more fashion tips, daily outfits, and more; stop by my blog! I have a very colorful, cute, happy style that will hopefully be of your liking. Hope to see you all there! :)
Hello everyone!! My name is Marie McGrath and I have a little happy blog called The Joy of Fashion. I was so flattered when Iris contacted me to write a post on her wonderful blog, so of course I agreed!
I thought it would be fun to show you different ways in which you could wear one item. In this case, I will show how versatile a colorful skirt can be. Any skirt with several colors would work for all the following ideas. Hope you like them!
1. Try wearing the skirt with a funky color combo! Just take two colors from the skirt and wear them somewhere in your outfit! In my case, I used a bright yellow top and a bright blue scarf as a belt. Then all you have to do is keep the rest of the outfit neutral.
2. Or why not try pairing the colorful skirt with colorful tights for a bold statement look! Just pick a color from your skirt and wear tights in that color. I would recommend keeping the rest of the outfit neutral to not overdo it.
3. No colored tights? Well why don't you try some patterned ones! Pattern mixing is always very fashion forward for those of you who feel bold enough to give it a try. The pattern mixing shouldn't compete with anything else, so keep the rest of the outfit simple (like I did with the simple green turtleneck and neutral accessories).
4. A more subtle option is to pair it with a feminine white top and a pop of color in the shoes. In this case, I paired the colorful skirt with a white lace ruffle top. Then I kept things interesting by adding some bright blue shoes! Make sure the color of the shoes comes from somewhere in your skirt.
5. This skirt can also be very work appropriate by just pairing it with a collar shirt. I would recommend wearing a colorful collar shirt like this green one I am wearing (which combines with the green in the skirt). You could also add a little cardi if your office is cold. Pair it with some sophisticated shoes and accessories and voila! Work chic!
And those are my 5 different looks with one same skirt. The possibilities are truly endless when it comes to a colorful skirt because there are so many colors to work with! So go ahead and give it a try! How would you wear a colorful skirt like this?
For more fashion tips, daily outfits, and more; stop by my blog! I have a very colorful, cute, happy style that will hopefully be of your liking. Hope to see you all there! :)
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