Tuesday, November 30, 2010

November 30, 2010: Looks Like Iris

Today at work my boss told me that I looked like I was Iris... I'm not exactly sure what that meant but, I think it was a compliment? Either way I'll take it as such. It might have been in reference to the fact that this is one of the more office appropriate ensembles that I have worn in the past week or two.

I love this dress! I have been saving it for a day like today. You know cool but, not too cold... the dress is sleeveless after all. It actually came with a matching tweed jacket but, that was a little too much for me. I'm sure the jacket will make an appearance eventually but, I opted for this comfy black cardi instead.
  • Top: blue tweed sheath dress, K Studio via Unique Thrift Store; black long cardigan, New York & Company
  • Shoes & Accessories: black pumps, Candies via Kohl's; purple tights, Duane Reade; silver bead earrings, Tiffany & Co.; silver bag, L.A.M.B via Loehmanns
 

Items from this outfit have been previously seen and remixed here:

Blogger Award: The Versatile Blogger

I am so excited to say that I have received my first blogger award from Lyddiegal of Chic on the Cheap and Frances Joy of Mad Dress Game! I would have totally passed it on to them but, that seems a bit redundant... Thanks ladies!!


So now I have to share seven random facts about myself...
  1. I listen to pretty much every type of music but, anything with a ridic bassline is best. Naturally I lean towards copious amounts of techno and such.
  2. I graduated from high school when I was 16.
  3. I drink tea like it's going out of style! I keep a giant bag of my favorite in my desk at work.
  4. I played the piano consistently for 8 years. I can still play a tune but, not like I used to. Practice makes perfect.
  5. I'm just a big kid at heart. I love playing video games and have since forever. I was always (and still am) that girl! You know, the one who was deceptively girly but, could totally kick your butt in Mortal Kombat/Cruisin' USA/Mario Kart/etc. Bring it people! I also love watching cartoons, don't judge.
  6. I live within five miles of the apartments I grew up in, that's right all three of them. I hope one day to be a little further away, California perhaps?
  7. I met BF when I was 13... don't worry it's not lecherous we didn't start hanging out on the regular or dating until I was 18.
Now it's time to pass it on to some of my favorite bloggers. I am looking forward to learning a little more about all of you!
  1. A Pretty Penny
  2. alltumbledown: a modest attempt at style
  3. clothed much, a modest fashion blog
  4. Fashion for the Economically Challenged
  5. Money Smart Fashion
  6. Sidewalk Chic formerly Sidewalk Chalk
  7. The Joy of Fashion

Weekend Wear: Give Thanks

Did you host Thanksgiving dinner or did you have to travel? Did you dress up for the family and friends? I just had to ask because I wanted to share my Thanksgiving outfit with you and I think the picture needs to be put into perspective. I hosted so, while I made the effort to keep my outfit on the fancier side of things (seriously people, I could have been wearing yoga pants) I did not think it necessary to wear actual shoes. It was just more comfy this way plus, the sound of me clacking all over my apartment would have probably driven my downstairs neighbor insane... Towards the end of the evening I did throw on some slippers since my feet were in need of cushy support but, they didn't photograph well. Would you have done the same and forgone actual shoes or toughed it our for the sake of outfit completion?
  • Top: orange convertible dress, Monif C (same dress different color here) with a tank top underneath for the modesty
  • Shoes & Accessories: brown tights, Merona for Target; tiger's eye earrings, Citygirl Accessories

Monday, November 29, 2010

November 23/24, 2010: Two Birds, One Stone

I hope everyone had a fantastic Thanksgiving! Did anyone go black friday shopping? What kinds of deals did you get? I know it's been a while but, don't worry I didn't slip into a food coma or get trampled I was just enjoying some family (and recovery) time. I'm catching up tonight before I have to get back to work tomorrow. We will be back on track darn it! I'm just grateful to have had an extra day before heading back to work but, I digress...

Because this past week was a short one (boo being sick, YAY Thanksgiving) I was actually only in the office for two days. In the interest of expediting my catching up I have decided to combine both outfits into one post, genius I know! On Tuesday I was still in recovery from being sick. So, I opted for comfy knit pants and an office appropriate t-shirt. My hair had a mind of it's own... don't judge.
  • Top: red short sleeve embellished t-shirt, New York & Company (same shirt different color here, here, here) with a tank top underneath for the modesty
  • Bottom: brown knit pants, New York & Company
  • Shoes & Accessories: silver hardware embellished flats, Preview via Nordstrom Rack; turquoise and silver earrings, Pennyweights; gray Balenciaga Le-Dix/motorcycle bag 

Items from this outfit are previously seen and remixed here, here, here, and here:



On Wednesday I only had one thing in mind, the long weekend! However, that did not mean that my business casual norm could be forgotten. I was one of a small handful of people that actually stuck with it... Did you go to work on Wednesday? If so, were you wearing jeans... it's ok you can be honest. After all, there was still work to be done, despite the upcoming break!
  • Top: orange crochet neck blouse, LOFT (same shirt different color here and here)
  • Bottom: gray really skinny pants, GAP
  • Shoes & Accessories:  teal leather flats, Aldo via Re/Dress NYC (same shoe different color here); tiger's eye earrings, Citygirl Accessories; brown suede purse with silver leaf embellishments, GAP

Items from this outfit are previously seen and remixed here, here, and here:

Friday, November 26, 2010

Guest Post: No Guilt Fashion - Dressing For The Holidays

One of the fun things about the Fashion Beauty Friend Friday group, besides all the cool discussions and questions, is the blog exchange that is going on today among the members. I am excited to participate and see what everyone comes up with! I am also extremely pleased to have Danie from No Guilt Fashion share one of her holiday outfits with everyone. I'll be over on her blog talking about the same so please take a look. Enjoy the rest of your holiday weekend!

I hope everyone had a wonderful Thanksgiving. I'm Danie from No Guilt Fashion. I'm thrilled to have the opportunity to get to guest post for the lovely Iris. I know she has some wonderful readers, and I hope you take a second to come over to my blog so I can get to know you too.

What I want to show you today, is what I will be wearing for one of my holiday parties. Hope to inspire you as you dress for the season. I don't usually get invited to big, flashy holiday parties, so I'm keeping the look simple yet fun. I picked a dark red dress, and paired it with some fun tights. One trend I'm really liking this year is patterned tights. I chose simple accessories and shoes, because, the tights can speak for them self. 

The Scoop
Dress- Target
Cardigan- Target
Tights- Target
Shoes- Payless
Necklace- Target
Bracelet- Lia Sophia

Thursday, November 25, 2010

Happy Thanksgiving!

To: You
From: Iris

Wednesday, November 24, 2010

November 19, 2010: Friday Last

Last Friday was like any other Friday, I was so happy for the week to be over. That's kind of how I feel today, except it's Wednesday!! But, while I might be getting out of the office early today (fingers crossed, I mean who doesn't get to leave early the day before Thanksgiving? Actually who even goes in?! but, I digress...) I still have lots of errands to run in preparation for dinner and such. What are your plans for turkey day? Are any of you going to brave Black Friday shopping? Has anyone already started their shopping? Is anybody finished!? I actually know a few people who are already done, gifts wrapped and everything... crazies, I'm jealous!

On that note, throughout the holiday season I do a decent amount of online shopping research so, I am going to be posting deals and cool finds on the 260 Days, No Repeats Facebook/Twitter for your perusal. Who knows, you might find an awesome gift that you might not otherwise have come across so check it out!
  • Top: gray scoop neck t-shirt, Old Navy with a tank top underneath for the modesty
  • Bottom: trouser jeans, GAP outlet
  • Shoes & Accessories: black sneaker/shoes Rocket Dog; black Spy bag, Fendi (not pictured)


Items from this outfit are previously seen and remixed here, here, here, here, here, here, here, here, and here.

Tuesday, November 23, 2010

November 18. 2010: Thursday Past

I am operating on a serious delay. Life happens (as we all know) but, it is my current mission to catch up and have everything back on track by Thanksgiving. Not too lofty (I hope) and considerably easier after I retrieve one of my cameras left at a friend's apartment over the weekend. I wish that one was small enough to fit in my pocket but, I digress... Thankfully, I am picking it up tonight.

I wore this outfit to regular work; no meetings, no job fairs, just hanging out in my cubicle and getting stuff done. I still look pretty put together though, right? I find that I am more productive when I fit the part of "put together young professional" even when I don't necessarily have to. Do you find a similar correlation between your level of dress and your productivity at work? If so, do you utilize the way you dress as a method of increasing your productivity?
  • Tops: brown and cream argyle sweater, Merona for Target (same shirt different color here)
  • Bottoms: gray wool pencil skirt, Isaac Mizrahi for Target/hemmed by Mom
  • Shoes & Accessories: brown pumps, Candies via Kohl's (same shoes different color here); purple tights, Duane Reade; pearl earrings, gift from Mom; vintage Louis Vuitton speedy, eBay

Items from this outfit are previously seen here:

Friday, November 19, 2010

Friend Friday: Blogger Copying

1. What are the 'unwritten rules' about copying content that we bloggers should all abide by?

I think people need to link back. If the written content isn't original or the picture isn't yours then you should definitely give credit where credit is due. In terms of wearing a similar outfit or posing in a similar location I think it's best practice to make note that you were inspired by whatever blog or other publication. I try to do that if I am aware.

2. They say imitation is the highest form of flattery. But when is a post imitation and when is it copying?

I think when a post is practically lifted ver batim from that is without a doubt copying. This includes changing a few words to similar synonyms in an attempt change the content. I think imitation comes when you are inspired by what someone does and you try it out for yourself developing your own related content. I think in OOTD blogs it is harder (maybe I'm an idealist) to flat out copy the pictures or the content of your daily outfit post because it is you in the pictures not the supposed culprit. Unfortunately, I have seen it more often if you are putting up an advice section about what to wear to a certain type of event, organize your closet, cook something, make something, etc. it is easier to copy.

3. Taking another blogger's idea (perhaps for an outfit, or DIY tutorial) is pretty common in the blogging world. Do you think it is necessary to credit the original source?

As I said before, I think it is very necessary to give credit where credit is due. Alot of work goes into blogging, from the written word to the design to the page content, and there is little to no compensation for most of us.

4. How have you improved your blog by comparing it to other blogs? Have you made changes due to something you have seen others doing?

If I had to pinpoint one thing I think the photography has changed on my blog tremendously. I noticed that I like viewing outfits on other blogs that had larger pictures in outdoor spaces and figured I have a tripod/BF why not give that a try? I like the way it has turned out so far! Unfortunately the nights are coming earlier and it is getting so cold outside... Way to kill my new system seasons!

5. Have you ever had one of your posts copied by another blogger or publication? How did you handle the situation?
 
Actually no, I haven't. At least that I know of anyway. I kind of wish I had! If they gave me some credit, that is...

What are your best practices when it comes to inspiration from other sources? Check out everyone elses answers on ModlyChic!

Thursday, November 18, 2010

Your Opinion: Cougar Boots

Photo Credit: http://spoonstudio.blogspot.com/
I'm sure everyone remembers the review I did for those fabulous Cougar boots. If not please check it out because they are pretty awesome!! Everyone on their end was happy to hear what I had to say but, now they want to know what you think. Please take a few minutes of your time (seriously it's only four or five questions) and fill out their quick online survey. For every survey completed they will donate $2 to the Red Cross. Now let's recap: read about fabulous boots (if you haven't already), fill out super short survey, help the Red Cross. I think this is a win, win, win all around!

November 17, 2010: Job Fair Again

This pictures says waiting on line in a city agency. How depressing for my hallway but, I digress... If you are thinking the same thing let me clarify, BF and I didn't go to city hall to make it "official." I got the flowers from the job fair I went to today as a "thank you" for participating. That was nice of them, wasn't it?
  • Top: ivory shirt with crochet embellishment, LOFT and a tank top underneath for the modesty, New York & Company; gray flyaway cardigan, New York & Company  
  • Bottom: black pinstripe suit skirt, Calvin Klein via SYMS
  • Shoes & Accessories: black pumps, Steve Madden; pearl earrings, gift from Mom; black spy bag, Fendi (not pictured)

Items from this outfit are previously seen and remixed here, here, here, here, here, here, here, and here:


Wednesday, November 17, 2010

November 16, 2010: Gray Pants Redux

These pants have been hiding in the back of my closet probably since the last time I wore them. Or at least after I got them out of the laundry. I thought I might have given them away but, I'm glad that I didn't. I think this might be an indicator that I have too much clothes or maybe just that I need to organize everything better. We'll pretend it's the latter...

On another note, I would like to introduce our cat! This is The Fuzz. He isn't usually curious about being included in blog photos like some other people's lovely pets. For some reason yesterday he really interested in checking out my shoes and accessories so, I let him go with it.
  • Top: pink and blue striped t-shirt, Old Navy
  • Bottom: gray pants, New York and Company
  • Shoes & Accessories: black ruffle embellished flats, Audrey Brooke via DSW; blue swarovski crystal earrings, V'ta; black Spy Bag, Fendi

Items from this outfit are previsouly seen here and here:

Monday, November 15, 2010

November 15, 2010: Monday Not Funday

Monday is here, I'm off to work. I'm feeling a little under the weather hence the pajama-like outfit. I am so excited that the GAP makes these amazingly comfy pants in another color. I am not thrilled that they close via a zipper in the back. Why mess with a good thing? Either way, they were too good to be passed up!

Where did the weekend go? Note to self: make zero plans for next weekend. O, we have BFF's birthday party/ies Friday and Saturday nights? Fine, make that the weekend after. What do you mean, Thanksgiving? Already?! I'm almost scared to ask but, how about the weekend after? Thank goodness that looks clear, I thought I was going to need to take some scheduled time off from work again... No self, you don't have vacations days you're per diem.
  • Top: purple ribbed tank top, Old Navy with a tank top underneath for the modesty; black long cardigan, New York and Company
  • Bottom: gray really skinny pants, GAP/gift from BF (same pants different color here)
  • Shoes & Accessories: black ruffle embellished flats, Audrey Brooke via DSW; silver bead earrings, Tiffany & Co.; silver L.A.M.B bag via Loehmann's


Items from this outfit are previously seen here:

Sunday, November 14, 2010

Night Out: Charity Auction - Mad Men Style

Two of my nearest and dearest friends invited me to an auction at their church. I have heard alot about the fun times that occur and could not wait to be a part of it! The theme of the auction was Mad Men so I needed to come up with an outfit that was representative of that era/show but, wouldn't cost me anything... The biggest challenge was the fact that I have never seen the show (for shame, I know) so I was working with a copious number of images from Google. While I went with a classic clothing pieces I really spiced everything up with the shoes. They style is vintage but, the leopard is so now! You'll have to forgive the state of my hair and makeup, these photos were taken at the end of the evening. I promise, everything was much more sleek at the beginning of the night. How do you think the look came out?
  • Top: aqua cowl neck sweater, Mossimo for Target
  • Bottom: black pencil skirt, Old Navy
  • Shoes & Accessories: patent leather leopard print mary janes, Le Due; nude tights, Assets by Sarah Blakely; pearl earrings, gift from Mom; pearl and rhinestone brooch, borrowed from Mom; black satin clutch, Old Navy (not pictured)

Update: I Complete You Product Challenge

I have finished a couple more things in my never ending product challenge. I am racing against the clock because the holidays are coming up and I know someone is going to buy me the standard gift basket from Bath & Body Works. If that's the case at least make sure it's my "favorite scent"!

One of the things that I didn't like about these products is that the containers are not recyclable! I mean who still does that?! I know moving forward if when this ends I am going to check the containers before I buy things. Would you (or have you) put a product back on the shelf if the container wasn't recyclable?


Check out my progress here

Friday, November 12, 2010

November 12, 2010: Over The Knee

Friday is becoming skinny jeans day, officially! I think next week I have to make a point to utilize some of my other jeans; I do have some, I swear! But, enough about that, let's talk about these boots... they have been hiding in my closet for the past few years (for shame, I know.) I am so happy that over the knee boots have become such a popular thing. I especially love the unique style of these; who needs plain black or brown when you have a nice tweed?
  • Top: yellow short sleeve embellished t-shirt, New York & Company (same shirt different color here); white tank top underneath for the modesty; gray flyaway cardigan, New York & Company
  • Bottom: denim jeggings, LOFT/birthday gift from Mom
  • Shoes & Accessories: brown tweed over the knee boots, Due Farina; green bugle bead earrings, Mandees/gift; purple tote bag, Coach outlet

Items from thie outfits are previously seen here, herehere, here, here, here, here, here, here, here, and here.


Friend Friday: Self Promotion

1. How do you promote your blog?

I belong to Chictopia, Weardrobe, Chicisimo, and such but, honestly have trouble keeping up with posting pictures there and on the blog. Maybe if this was my full time gig... I also belong to IFB but, don't generally submit my posts there. Not alot of my content (i.e outfit of the day) seems relevant. I've placed my blog with alot of aggregators but, that doesn't seem to have an impact like I would have hoped. I love to do blog exchanges/guest posts, even if I have people posting on 260 Days, No Repeats (like while I was on vacation) it drives different traffic to me for sure and it's alot of fun for everyone. I also love taking part in challenges that can bring a whole different group of people to my (or their) blog which is nice. Giveaways are a great way also, if you can find someone to sponsor them. And of course there is the now standard Facebook/Twitter route. I should network more... I also try to post comments on the blogs I enjoy reading but, that list is getting longer and longer. I also think taking better/bigger/clearer pictures helps draw people to your site and want to stay. It shows a certain degree of effort and care on your part as the author. I try to leave witty and interesting comments but, that doesn't happen all the time. Sometimes, I do say things akin to "nice shoes" but, it's because I really like their shoes/bag/skirt/whatever and that is what I am moved to comment on. It's not meant to be comment spam.

2. In your experience what has been the most effective form of self promotion?

Facebook for sure! I don't have alot of fans but, some of them do take part in the conversation that I try to have which I really enjoy. Plus, the ability to link to other pages drives alot of traffic to me. I love the idea of reaching more people and hearing what they have to say!

3. Do you think there is a wrong way to promote yourself and your blog?

I think you need to put out a good product. Whether it is the pictures, discussions you try to start, or commentary on yours or other people's style choices. When your content starts to become stale it definitely impacts readership. I can totally respect those bloggers who take breaks to refresh themselves.

4. When is comes to others pushing their product what annoys you?

I don't like when people make irrelevant comments. It is one thing to say "nice shoes" if what you really like about the outfit is solely the shoes but, it is another thing to say something about the weather or a contest/giveaway that you are having on your blog.

5. In Dressful's post on this topic earlier in the week she said, "It's impossible to respect someone who wants all the attention, but adds nothing worthwhile to the conversation." Do you agree?

I think that's a little harsh generally speaking. I would respect their opinion and them as a person. I don't view people who make short, to the point, yet comments as just someone who wants all the attention. I mean maybe they do but, dont' we all? Either way, they are someone who took the time out to view your blog/site and say something even if they didn't have alot to say.

Check out everyone else's answers on ModlyChic

Thursday, November 11, 2010

November 10, 2010: Cold Feet?

Earlier this week I had no idea that people (like me and perhaps you) had off today. I knew it was Veteran's Day and all that but, not that it was recognized by my company as a holiday, everywhere is different. So today I am sitting in the comfort of my own home at 11AM(ish) sipping on a chai tea latte to talk about yesterday's outfit... it's good to have a mini break!

Yesterday was fun because I took some inspiration from other bloggers and wore my tights with open shoes! Maybe not revolutionary to you but, very foreign to me. I kinda liked it! What do you think about the socks and open toe shoe trend? Or how about the boots and knee sock thing?
  • Top: red embellished t-shirt, Van Heusen outlet (same shirt different color here)
  • Bottom: gray wool pencil skirt, Isaac Mizrahi for Target/hemmed by Mom
  • Shoes & Accessories: black patent leather t-strap pumps, LOFT; gray and black houndstooth tights, Merona for Target (similar and on sale here); silver bead earrings, Tiffany & Co.; black spy bag, Fendi

Items from this outfit are previously seen here:

Happy Veteran's Day

To: You
From: Iris

Tuesday, November 9, 2010

November 9, 2010: Late Tuesday

I was tidying up at work today so I opted for some professional yet comfy clothes to avoid wearing jeans in the office. Skinny pants are my new favorite fall back piece of clothing and flyaway cardigans are coming in at a close second. This outfit also worked really well for date night! BF and I went to go see Megamind. It was way better than I expected! What items would you incorporate into a busy day/fun evening look?
  • Top: gray graphic t-shirt, New York & Company/gift from BF's mom; gray flyaway cardigan, New York & Company
  • Bottom: black really skinny pants, GAP/gift from BF
  • Shoes & Accessories: leopard print flats, New York & Company; silver bead earrings, Tiffany & Co.; black spy bag, Fendi

Items from this outfit are previously seen here, here, here, here, here and here:

Monday, November 8, 2010

November 8, 2010: Happy Monday

Happy Monday! It seems a bit backwards that I am in such a positive mood considering the grayness caused by a nor'easter (hence the clenched fists and wind blown hair in my pic, it's cold!) that my tri-state area is dealing with today. If there was any way to keep you in the Monday doldrums yucky weather would be it but, I am feeling fine. Maybe it's these fun tights...

In the spirit of practicality I have decided to wear my awesome new rain boots again. I definitely feel like Erin from Work With What You've Got; Cute dress, fun socks, and kick ass boots, an excellent combination for whoever is sporting it! 

Lastly to all the brave souls who are taking part in Kendi's 30 for 30 challenge. I wish you the best of luck! I'm definitely making it sound more dramatic than it really is... you'll all do great! Every time it comes up I think about doing it but, I can't bring myself to jump on board. I am already remixing the heck out of my wardrobe and to limit it so extremely seems insurmountable. Sorry my flair for drama is getting away from me again. Bad flair! Come back... 
  • Top: black lace dress, H&M via Unique Thrift Shop/gift from Mom with a tank top underneath for the modesty 
  • Shoes & AccessoriesRegal black rain boot, courtesy of Cougar; purple tights, Duane Reade; gray shell earrings, gift from BF's mom; yellow alley bag

Sunday, November 7, 2010

Review: Cougar Boots

When I was asked to do a review of Cougar boots I was thrilled! Well, actually first I was confused... I had never heard of them before and while the thought of receiving an item to review was exciting I wasn't sure that these shoes/boots were even my style. So, I checked out their website and was thrilled to see that most of the boots were right up my alley. After which I sent back an enthusiastic, YES!

I got to pick one pair of rain boots and one pair of snow boots to review. They gave me some options and I got to pick my tops and they would send me what they could based on my size and their availability. And I patiently waited to receive my package in the mail...

When it finally came I couldn't wait to see what boots I had gotten. The selection of snow boots was pretty good so I think I would have been fine with whatever they sent me but, I had my heart set on a specific set of rain boots. When I opened the box I was greeted with a nice letter from the president of the company (kudos to them for that nice detail) and a whole lot of goodies!



Not only do I get boots but, they included an awesome mug, some hot cocoa, and a warm hoodie! All of which will be quite handy and fully utilized as the temperatures continue to drop. And I love their message, "For the world you walk on. Love what you wear." I can totally get behind that! Now, it was time to get down to business and see what I ended up with, drumroll please... the exact boots I wanted!!! And even though I ordered them in a 9 (I am generally a 9.5) they fit perfectly!



First of all let's talk about the rain boots, because I actually got to wear them for a whole day at work and to run some errands after. As I mentioned before they were a good fit and absolutely waterproof. I jumped in a puddle leftover from the days before's rain (yes, like a small child) and I was honestly hoping that it would start up again... it didn't but, I think I got to experience the dryness perfectly. Plus, I love the style. How unbelievably bad ass are these boots with their motorcycle vibe? My only complaint is that I wish they were a little higher and wider in the calf. I have very muscular calves and where these boots stopped on me they ended up being a little tight by the end of the day. Also, I love the look of taller wellies that you could wear with equally tall socks and if they had been the case I probably wouldn't have had the calf problem. Overall though, big thumbs up for style and comfort!

On to the snow boots (pictured in detail here)... I only got to wear these around the house because there has not been (and had better not be) any snow yet. They are so comfortable, I love them! They are also warm, waterproof, and very lightweight. Considering how the tags claim a wearer will stay warm in, as low as, 5° weather I am very impressed, I would have expected them to be heavier and bulkier. The faux fur is not 100% me but, I am getting used to it and it is so trendy for fall/winter that you can't go wrong with these. I think they are my favorite out of the two pairs and I almost can't wait (figuratively speaking) for snow!

Overall, I have found a new favorite boot brand! And while I was searching for other styles online I found that these are really not that expensive at all; Definitely cheaper than (or on par with) Hunter or Uggs, just as warm, and even more stylish. Which Cougar boots/shoes are your favorite?

Saturday, November 6, 2010

November 5, 2010: Morning After

The gala was so much fun! I was out till that wee hours of the morning sharing drinks and good times with friends and colleagues. Speaking of colleagues... can I just tell you how most of the people I work with didn't recognize me?! Even my own boss who I see every darn day did a double take! I didn't think I looked that different but, apparently I was wrong.

The morning was a less glamorous affair, since it was supposed to be rainy and gross. Thankfully I had nothing important going on.
  • Top: maroon ribbed tank top, Old Navy with another tank top underneath for the modesty; gray flyaway cardigan, New York & Company
  • Bottom: denim jeggings, LOFT/birthday gift from Mom
  • Shoes & Accessories: Regal black rain boot, courtesy of Cougar; gray shell earrings, gift from BF's mom; black Spy Bag, Fendi

Items from this outfit are previously seen and remixed here, here, here, here, here, here, here, and here:

Friday, November 5, 2010

Night Out: Gala

I got an invite to the very exclusive gala for my company about a week ago. Last minute, I know but, I was more than happy to oblige. I mean who wouldn't be excited for free dinner in a fancy hotel on Fifth Avenue?! Plus, this was a low stress situation; I already had a dress to wear, or so I thought... This unfortunate weight gain made that prospect null and void (maybe next year) and I was all of a sudden dress-less.

I resigned myself to try and make my Monif C. Marilyn Convertible dress work for the event; With 22+ different ways to tie it there had to be something that worked for this occasion, right? Not so much... Even though the event was not black tie the dress was too plain for evening wear. Now I was really in a tight spot, let the stress commence.

Enter my local Loehmann's! I got a coupon in the mail and thought, "Why not?" It was a good move because they saved me with a nice selection of modest pieces (it was a work event after all) and this lovely Calvin Klein dress was the winner. Seriously, if you are ever in need of a dress for a fancy occasion head to Loehmann's, if you can, they have an awesome selection! What do you think of the final ensemble?

The best part of this dress is that I don't have to count it in my purchases for November! Why, you ask? Because it was free! BF had gotten a rebate on our new cell phones and he gave it to me to get the dress (what a sweetie.) Still, I didn't want to squander all our free money so I was a discount ninja when it came time to check out. Let me break it down for you: Original cost of the dress $128.00, Loehmann's price $59.99, Gold member discount: $6.00, 15% off coupon discount: $8.10, Price after discounts, $47.90 (w/ tax) minus a gift card: $15.00, Final price: 32.90. I was honestly impressed with all that and still had money to give back to BF! I love it when things work out like this... What's your favorite discount ninja memory?
  • Top: gray sheath dress with pearl embellishment, Calvin Klein via Loehmann's
  • Shoes & Accessories: black and gray leopard print peep toe pumps, Hollywould for Target. Does anyone else remember that line?; pearl earrings, gift from Mom; black satin clutch, Old Navy (not pictured)

Friend Friday: All Natural

1. The move to do away with soap, shampoo and deodorant has been growing in popularity in the last year. What are your thoughts on this trend?

People are entitled to do what they want to do but, as we can see from my product addiction I like to smell nice. As I went over in my original post on that topic I definitely want to cut down on my excessive product consumption but, I will always use deodorant, soap, etc. It seems a little

2. Be honest how often do you wash your own hair?

Every other day if I wear it curly, every three or four days when it's straight. I only ever have my hair washed by someone else when I go to the salon for a cut or a blow out. Are there really people who go to the salon just to have their hair washed? I want to have the money for that, then still do it myself or maybe I misunderstood the question...

3. Have you tried to go the more natural route by forgoing shampoo? What happened? Or would you be tempted to try it?

No that prospect scares me, it would be horrible for my hair and my face. I can't just see the greasy hair and breakouts now...

4. What products do you use and have you ever gone with more organic alternatives?

Well for my hair I use whatever shampoo/conditioner is on sale and is moisturizing. Generally Suave or Herbal Essences. I actually don't use too many products other than that. When I wear my hair straight I use Ojon Restorative Hair Treatment, a more natural thing to add some shine and control the flyaways after I blow it out. When I wear it curly I use Got2B Spiking Glue. It sounds extreme but, haven't found the hold I like in a gel yet and when this worked I stopped looking for other products.

5. What about that daily shower? Would you forgo that opting to shower three times a week instead?

No, just no. I like feeling (and being) clean! There are some rare occasions where I don't shower one day and by the next day I feel gross even though I wash my face, brush my teeth, and everything else other than a shower.

Thursday, November 4, 2010

November 4, 2010: Important Person Perhaps?

I would just like to point out that I am completely caught up on outfit posts, YAY! It really feels good to be getting back into the groove of things. Anyway...

I feel really special today! Yesterday I got asked (kind of last minute) to participate in a county HR committee meeting. I'm not really sure what that entails but, I feel like I need to dress to impress and wear some sort of blazer. There is something about a blazer that completely raises any outfit's professionalism factor, don't you agree? This outfit makes me feel that I convey being put together and that I should be taken seriously. Not that I shouldn't but, it definitely gives me a big confidence boost when I get that vibe while looking in the mirror. Then I can dazzle everyone even further with my knowledge and witty repartee. This is a big deal tomorrow especially because I have a feeling that the vast majority of participants will be much older than me. I also have another job fair immediately following this meeting, fun times! There is also something fun going on after hours but, that is a story for another day AKA post...
  • Top: purple 3/4 sleeve top, Xhiliration for Target; black jacket, LOFT
  • Bottom: ivory and black animal print pencil skirt, LOFT/birthday gift from BF's mom
  • Shoes & Accessories: black pumps, Steve Madden; tourmaline earrings, V'ta; black Spy Bag, Fendi


Items from this outfit are previously seen and remixed here and here: