October 31, 2011: Polka Dots + Chunky Heels = Minnie Mouse

If you are participating in this theme week please link up below and put the trend that you are representing where it asks for your name. Please leave a comment after you post, thanks!

Happy Halloween!! Yes, I am dressing up to go to work today. There is actually a tradition of "newbies" (AKA people who have not yet experienced Halloween at the firm) dressing up to celebrate. It started out as a practical joke where one group tricked their new employees into dressing up for the holiday and everyone has been continuing it every since. This year it has gotten a bit more official, a firm wide email went out and lots of people have been pressuring asking me if I am going to dress up.

I want to be a good sport but, I didn't want to have to buy a costume; it (always) seems like an unnecessary expense, especially considering how ridiculously expensive Halloween costumes can get. So, I racked my brain for options that existed in my closet that would also work with the theme week. There were so many criteria to meet!

I remeber that the last time I wore this fab polka dot dress someone mentioned that it reminded them of Minnie Mouse, I could totally work with that! What a great way to debut these fab yellow shoes. Minnie apparently had these trends from the start!

Besides, I've done this before in October 1989:

I don't consider wearing this dress again a repeat since I have (very) different accessories and it is a main part of my Halloween costume. Are you dressing up for Halloween at work or did you dress up this weekend? What were/are you? I hope no one says "sexy ketchup" or "sexy chinese takeout" Yes, those costumes exist. If you are going to work all dressed up did you try to incorporate the trends? Or are you trending without a costume? 

• Top: red and black polka dot dress, Clues Collections (Vintage) via The Unique Thrift Store/gift from Mom 
• Shoes & Accessories: yellow Password Pumps, Seychelles via DSW; Minnie Mouse Ears, Party City; red ribbon belt, Michael's; pearl earrings, pearl earrings, birthday gift from Mom; purple tote bag, Coach

Items from this outfit are previously seen here:

Happy Halloween!

To: You

From: Iris



October 27, 2011: Professional Boots

I worked from home yesterday and I wish every day could be like that figured I would take these lovely boots out for a test drive today. It is going to rain and my options for wet weather footwear that are acceptable in this new office are practically non existent. I think this pair might be a game changer on that front!

In my attempts to still keep things office appropriate I decided to pair the boots with very opaque black tights,  I think that makes all the difference. Now I have a skirt solution for the rainy/cold weather! Unfortunately, I don't think these boots would work with pants in any weather. I'm fairly certain there is something in our dress code that specifically rules out tight pants tucked into boots. That is definitely something to look into...

• Top:  yellow short sleeve embellished t-shirt, New York & Company (same shirt different color here); white tank top underneath for the modesty; gray plaid blazer, Jones New York via Mom
• Bottom: black pencil skirt (with pockets), Old Navy
• Shoes & Accessories: black Mirage boots, courtesy of Cougar Boots;  black tights, Hanes Silk Reflections courtesy of Hanes via Robert Verdi's Luxe Lab; pearl earrings, birthday gift from Mom; purple tote bag, Coach

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

Review: Cougar Boots 2011

I was so excited when the lovely people from Cougar contacted me again and asked me if I would like to review another pair of boots for them. The boots that I got last year became absolute staples in the cold and wet weather and I was happy to pick one more pair!

Out of all the options that I was presented with this year I knew almost instantly which ones I wanted to try; the Mirage in black. After making very practical selections last year (snow boots/rain boots) I was happy to find something that I felt truly meshed fashion and function and I responded with my selection with haste, excited to receive another great pair of boots! I was also curious to see if Cougar boots in leather would work for people who have larger than average calves (16.5") like myself.

Then I got an email saying that the Mirage had been the most popular boot and they no longer has them in my size (ultimate sad face) but, I was still really excited about trying out their boots and thought the Marla, which had previously been available as well, would be the next best thing. It's fashion, function, with a sprinkle of trendy mixed in but, those weren't available either (extreme frustration). I thought about it long and hard and settled on the Portico in brown. Not that those aren't lovely boots but, they didn't scream "fashion" just "function."

When the boots finally came it was like an early Christmas gift! I was excited to try those Portico boots on and see if they were up to the challenge of fitting over my calves but, look what I found when I opened the box.

That;s right, the Mirage!! All the outfits that I had been planning when I made my initial selection started coming back to me. They really will be a great option when the weather really cools down.

When I tried them on they were so comfortable and the heel was completely practical. Then came the moment of truth: zipping them all the way up. It was honestly a bit of a struggle. I was able to make it all the way up but, they are still a bit tight. What worried me more was that I was not wearing pants so if I was to try them with some jeggings or skinny pants I'm sure it will be an even bigger fight. I suppose I can always get them stretched a bit by a cobbler... problem solved. Although, if I was in a store buying these boots I might not be so quick to purchase them since I would have to make additional, cost inducing alterations. 

In the end I am really happy with these boots!! They are absolutely lovely and would be en excellent shoe choice for casual social events, low key dressy gatherings, and even work affairs (depending on your dress code.) They are also completely practical for winter weather since they will keep you warm in as low as -22° temperatures. Lastly, they are extremely comfortable and will be even more so once I have the opening stretched or wear them more and stretch it myself! 

What Cougar shoes are your favorite? 

"You've Got This!" Week: Fall 2011

Yeah it's that time again! As you might remember from prior "You've Got This!" Weeks the temptation to shop for new trends is nagging at me and I am trying my best to resist! How about you? I know other people have been doing some similar theme weeks but, since I did it last year I want to stick with it! I hope you will join me.

I am going to do things a little differently this time since Mr. Linky makes everything so much easier I will put one up everyday next week starting Monday and if you want to participate you can just link up! Just leave me a comment so I know you're in, grab the banner, pick some trends, and work with what you've got! I'm sure you have things in your closet that fit the trends so put some fantastic outfits with your stuff. No buying anything new!! I know you've got this... 

Here are some fall trends that we can all be inspired by for next week:

• Cropped Trousers
• Tie Neck Blouses
• Faux Fur
• Lace
• Midi Skirts 
• Maxi Skirts
• Color Blocking
• Polka Dots 
• Chunky Heels
• Mustard
• Peplum
• Poncho
• Plaid
• Mustard
• Leather 

October 25, 2011: Hoping For A 7-10 Split

While I was planning my outfits out for the week I forgot about this "moral/team building" thing that my company has organized. You guessed it from the title, bowling. I honestly can't tell you the last time I went bowling and that's probably because I was a single digit in age. If I had to describe my feelings about the whole thing it would be "skeptical", what is up with those shoes?

Since it's company wide undertaking they paired it with a fundraiser (think 5K meets bowling) from the start and we have raised a nice chunk of change for a charity in need. Who beat her fundraising goal into the ground? Yeah that would be me but, I digress... I can definitely get on board with supporting a worthy cause but, coming up with an outfit that would take me from work to the bowling alley was not something I thought I would have to do. What goes with those shoes?

• Top: orange ballet neck chiffon flower embellished top, New York & Company; black blazer, Ann Taylor via Melissa 
• Bottom: black and white tweed pencil skirt, Isaac Mizrahi for Target via The Unique Thrift Store
• Shoes & Accessories: black ballet flats, Xhiliration via Target; black tights, Hanes Silk Reflections courtesy of Hanes via Robert Verdi's Luxe Lab; silver and gold teardrop earrings, V'ta Jewelry; purple tote bag, Coach

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

October 24, 2011: Just Another Manic Monday

Today is just your normal, run of the mill Monday: there are things to accomplish in the upcoming week at work (as well as, at home), there are social obligations that are looming throughout the rest of the week, and all while that Monday malaise is, making you feel like it would really be best if you jumped back in bed for more quality time with your pillows. You know what I'm talking about...

In my opinion one of the best cures for "the Mondays" is a great outfit! Something that will carry you through the entire day from work to a drink after, errands, or just the train back home. It gives you the boost you need to start the week out sans extra pillow time which is exactly what I am trying to do here!

• Top: black, brown, and red paisley dress, New York and Company with a tank top underneath for the modesty; black blazer Ann Taylor via Melissa
• Shoes & Accessories: black pumps, Candies via Kohl's; black tights, Hanes Silk Reflections courtesy of Hanes via Robert Verdi's Luxe Lab; black belt, came with this dress; hammered silver and garnet earrings, jewelry by lis; purple tote bag, Coach

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

October 17, 2011: Floating In On The Breeze

Hello Everyone! That's right I am back from my mini vacation. I had so much fun with my cous and definitely could have used a few more days in the Windy City with her but, it was time to come back to reality home.

It was back to work yesterday and I just wanted to be comfy while I was getting down to business (my inbox was bonkers!) So I went with pieces that I thought would be professional and (extra) comfy all at the same time. I think that will be the theme for the rest of the week.

I'm not sure that I will get today/tomorrow's outfits up in a super timely manner since I have late meetings both days but, I am going to try to make Thursday the day for outfit posts if I don't!

• Top:  floral print t-shirt, Vera Wang for Kohl's; black pinstripe blazer, Calvin Klein (part of this suit)
• Bottom: black wide leg knit pants, New York & Company
• Shoes & Accessories: black suede sneaker shoes, Rocket Dog; my abuela's vintage silver hoop earrings; beige linen satchel, Volcom courtesy of Lulus.com/Blogger's Night Out 

And The Winner Is...

Patti_NotDeadYetStyle!!! Congratulations! I will be in touch shortly with details about 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 that as well!

Reminder: Incoco Giveaway

Don't forget I am going to share some of the Incoco swag I got with you. I will be giving away one of the samples that I got "Suit Up", a 7 way nail buffer, and some nail polish remover pads!

This giveaway will be until October 17, 2011 and is open to ALL readers! This is your last weekend to enter!! I will pick the winner via Excel/random.org. Here are the rules: become a follower in Google (if you aren't already) and leave a comment on the original post letting me know what Incoco pattern or color is your favorite... Don't forget to add your email so I can contact you! For bonus entries:

• 1 bonus entry - "Like" 260 Days, No Repeats on Facebook. Leave another comment letting me know you did this.
• 1 bonus entry - Follow 260 Days, No Repeats on Twitter. Leave another comment with your twitter handle.
• 3 bonus entries - Re-post this giveaway on your blog. Leave another comment letting me know you did this with the link.
• 5 bonus entries - Add 260 Days, No Repeats to your blogroll. Leave another comment letting me know you did this with the link.

FBFF: The Quintessential Fall Outfit

Fall is afoot! The air is crisper and the leaves are changing at least here in the northeast. When Katy was talking about potential visual FBFF topic's I started to think about what you all might be wearing for the fall. 

For me it is all about the layering! Waking up in the morning and coming home at night brings two different temperatures not to mention everything else that comes throughout the day... Since I am normally in an air conditioned office all day it's fine to wear one outfit without need for change, if I was going to go out for the day I would need something that can transition throughout the day like the following: 

• Top: red long sleeved t-shirt, Van Heusen; brown houndstooth jacket, LOFT 
• Bottom: really skinny jeans, LOFT
• Shoes & Accessories: teal leather flats, ALDO via Re/Dress NYC; silver and gold teardrop earrings, V'ta Jewelry

Guest Post: Modly Chic - Packing for the Weekend

While I am away visting my cous for her birthday I asked Katy from Modly Chic if she would write guest post on packing for short trips. I feel like she is always away from home. These tips were so great I definitely needed the while I was packing! I will be back to regular blogging on October 17th, 'till then... 
Greetings! I'm Katy from ModlyChic and I'm guest posting here for the day on how to pack for a weekend trip. Apparently, according to Iris, I'm the consummate weekend traveler, which is true now that I think about the amount of times I've packed my bags up for a three-day trip. When I went away for three weeks at the beginning of the summer I wrote about packing lightly for a long trip, but some of the rules are different for a short one.

How to pack lightly for a weekend away:

• Go with two basics. A pair of jeans and a dress perhaps. Both items should be able to be mixed and matched with multiple other things.
• Add a couple layer-able pieces. The shirts, vests or sweaters you pack should be able to coordinate with both the starting basics, allowing you to create multiple outfits from the same items remixed.
• Accent your look. Pack a couple pairs of earrings, a necklace, a couple bracelets, a ring and be done with your accessories.
• Go easy on the shoes. I think we ladies tend to over-pack shoes. A pair of comfortable day shoes and a pair of killer heels is all you need. Save your back and don't take a bunch of pairs you can't possibly wear.
• Take only the makeup essentials. A foundation, blush, mascara, lipgloss and a small eye-shadow palette is all you need.

Two People, One Suitcase

That's right, I am on the road again. I am going to be spending the rest of the week in Chicago with my cousin for her birthday. Shhhh, it's a surprise... or at least it was. I'm already here and she already knows. I can tell you right now it was a super awesome moment!

I could tell you all about what I wore on the plane but, it would be another post about skinny jeans and a flyaway cardigan AKA my standard plane ensemble, I would much rather tell you about the newest challenge I undertook for this trip. BF had suggested to me that we take the middle size luggage from our three piece set and pack in it together for the trip! Crazy, I know... well, maybe not because I totally did it! Here are some things I learned about packing with your significant other/close friend for a trip although, I'm sure they could come in handy for anyone looking to lighten their load (literally)!

1. Common Rules Apply - Don't forget those standard tips and tricks that you are so used to reading about/following. You know: make a list, don't leave packing for the last minute, check the weather before you leave, wear your heavier items on the plan, etc. All those thing definitely come into play. 
2. Pack As One - Do you really need two different tube or toothpaste or bottles of mouthwash? Not really. Unless your significant other has cooties you can share and save yourself some space and weight.
3. Free Samples - Another way to keep the toiletries light(weight) is to milk the free samples. I sign up for everything I can possibly get. I'm talking lotion, face wash, shampoo, conditioned, etc. and these smaller than travel size portions really come in handy when you are going away for a long weekend.
4. Can't Live Without It - You want to pack the absolute essentials first and foremost. Do you really need that extra sweatshirt? Probably not and if you do, there is always a Target around...  
5. Weighting You Options - Check your luggage's weight multiple times throughout the packing process, most importantly after you have finished packing the essentials. As you continue to add or subtract things make sure that you don't go over the limit. 

Following these few simple steps can really help you achieve what I thought was impossible: sharing my luggage! Stay tuned for more fun posts this week, I got the whole scheduling thing down.

Don't forget to enter the giveaway!

October 11, 2011: Geometry is Sexy

With all the talk of Re/Dress NYC closing it's doors I felt a strong urge to finally bust out this dress that I have been saving for the right occasion. I think I've made this "mistake" before; what is really the "right time" to wear awesome clothes other than everyday? That being said, I definitely had to wait until the weather got cooler before I swaddled myself in polyester because it doesn't breathe at all!

Also, I just want to point out that I did not come up with "Geometry is Sexy" myself (as much as I might have wished I did) it was on the tag for the dress that I picked up at the $20 Vintage Dress sale in June! Yes, I saved the tag... No, you shouldn't judge me. If you are a blogger, where do you come up with inspiration for your blog post titles?

Now on to the shoes... I know I expressed a fair share of condemnation towards Target in response to their frustrating Missoni launch but, while I was at Target looking for something completely unrelated I spotted an endcap with a bunch of these shoes and one pair in my size! Since I have a gift card to Targét burning a hole in my wallet I decided to pick them up. Then I may or may not have fallen prey to the Missoni for Target craze and gone to different Target's looking for more stuff...

• Top: beige, black, and red vintage "Geometry is Sexy" dress, Kathy via Re/Dress NYC
• Shoes & Accessories: black suede pumps,Missoni for Target; black belt, came with this dress; pearl earrings, Macy's/birthday gift from Mom; gray Le Dix/Motorcycle bag, Balenciaga 

Don't forget to enter the giveaway!!

October 10, 2011: New Employee Orientation, Again

So yesterday I was doing another new employee orientation thing so the outfit I put on had to make a modest and professional impact. It's even more important because the person that I was "on-boarding" is older than me and I more often than not have a problem with that.

Yes, I understand you are a seasoned professional but, you still have to listen to what I'm saying! Good I'm glad you understand that this blazer gives me a heightened level of authority (at least this is how it goes in my head...)

• Top: black and gray plaid dress with pockets, LOFT; black blazer, Ann Taylor
• Shoes & Accessories: black patent leather t-strap pumps, LOFT; cut steel earrings, V'ta Jewelry; gray Le Dix/Motorcycle bag, Balenciaga 

Items from this outfit are previously seen and remixed here:

Don't forget to enter the giveaway!!

First Full Week

I know I started out strong last week but, things came up as they always do. I think it was good things though... I had my first Stella & Dot party. It was tons of fun! Good times with great ladies is never a bad idea... Shameless plug: if you are in the tri-state area and interested in having your own Stella & Dot party while getting free jewelry and having fun times with friends shoot me an email.

All I can say about this week moving forward is pre-scheduled posts perhaps? I have to find some way to make it work. But, here's what I wore for the remained of last week.

I swear I wasn't this busty all day... 

Review and Giveaway: Incoco Nail Strips

Remember a few posts/a month ago when I went to all those Fashion Week events? Well, when I was at Robert Verdi's Luxe Lab the first thing I did was have a manicure at the Incoco table and I fell in love! These nail strips are perfect for every fashionista coming in a variety or colors and patterns with no hassle application and staying power. I was so thrilled when I reached out to them and they responded promptly with samples!

Check out all the options! I'm glad that someone else picked them for me because after browsing through their website I wouldn't have been able to make up my mind, they have so many great patterns! Not only was I noticing great things for myself but, fun colors and patterns that would make ideal stocking stuffers for the impending upcoming holiday season.

I'm wearing Casting Call which was also seen on the Spring 2012 Vivienne Tam runway!

I decided to try the sample I found most impressive (and was thrilled they included) the French Manicure strips... No one makes anything like this and the idea of being able to do my own (successful) French Manicure was a no brainer! I wanted to see how easy it would be.

That was simple now wasn't it! Seriously, it really was... after filing your nails to the desired shape/length and cleaning them thoroughly (that is important for a longer lasting manicure) you start with the white tips. This was the trickier part for me because I wasn't sure how much white tip I wanted but, I did the best I could. Then came the sheer strip which, as you can see in the pic, is really sheer. And voila, instant(ish) French Manicure.

I am already seeing some chips but, that is my own fault. Like I said the while tips were tricky for me... My advice would be to make sure that you are 100% sure before you apply the strip to your nail. Do not pull it off and reattach it five or six two or three times. The full sheer pink part (or other nails strips in general) are much less tricky to apply because the beginning point is your cuticle.

Now for the fun news for you! I am so happy to be able to share some of the Incoco swag with you. I will be giving away one of the samples that I got "Suit Up", a 7 way nail buffer, and some nail polish remover pads!

This giveaway will be until October 17, 2011 and is open to ALL readers! I will pick the winner via Excel/random.org. Here are the rules: become a follower in Google (if you aren't already) and leave a comment on this post letting me know what Incoco pattern or color is your favorite... Don't forget to add your email so I can contact you! For bonus entries:

• 1 bonus entry - "Like" 260 Days, No Repeats on Facebook. Leave another comment letting me know you did this.
• 1 bonus entry - Follow 260 Days, No Repeats on Twitter. Leave another comment with your twitter handle.
• 3 bonus entries - Re-post this giveaway on your blog. Leave another comment letting me know you did this with the link.
• 5 bonus entries - Add 260 Days, No Repeats to your blogroll. Leave another comment letting me know you did this with the link.

FBFF: In the "in-crowd"

1. Do you ever see a fad hit the stores and immediately dislike it? Has that fad ever began to grow on you?

I feel like all of these questions are going to inevitably lead back to skinny jeans or (shudder) jeggings so I'll just put that out there right now. I cannot think of an item of clothing that was super trendy but, I was more against when it hit stores than the skinny jean. I thought they were unflattering, sort of immodest, and all around not for me. I mean, not all trends are for everyone so how would these wierd legging like denim things work for me? I resolved that they wouldn't and they should be relegated to super skinny model like frames...

2. Has the popularity of a certain piece of clothing or line ever convinced you to try on something (or purchase something) you dislike?

I always try things on if I am the least bit interested (rompers, those wierd ankle sandal shoes, etc.) and they don't always work (rompers, those wierd ankle sandal shoes, etc.)  and that's ok because I know for sure! Since I have been curbing my shopping I have gotten alot better at recognizing what is flattering/fits and what doesn't. It is a waste of money to buy something that is trendy and maybe kinda sorta works for you but, you don't love/it fits strangely becuase it just sits in your closet and you will wear rarely if at all. It's happened to me plenty of times before and I've learned from those mistakes. If you don't love it don't buy it even if it is the height of fashion!

3. Have you ever changed your mind about a trend after seeing it around for a while?

Now we head back to skinny jeans... Last summer I went shopping with my mother for my birthday and decided if I could find a pair in my size that were a good color I would try them on and see what all the fuss was about. When I slipped into them I completely fell in love. The color was great, the fit was perfect, and they were BEYOND comfy. I am a believer fan now, you won skinny jeans.

4. Do you feel a certain pressure to have specific items in your closet because 'everyone' else does?

Not really, maybe when I was younger because I wanted to be super cool. Now that I am a bit older I think I have super cool style without overloading it with trends and things that everyone else wears.

5. Be honest, what do you think of the Missoni line? Did you grab any items? Is it worth the eBay prices?

Honestly, I think it is SO frustrating. I will start this out by saying that generally I love Target but, they did a horrible job with the Missoni launch.

Photo courtesy of fashioninaction.blogspot.com

The line was really lovely and well designed. For the first time in a long time I was actually excited to shop and potentially spend the still over-priced $30-$50+ on something (shoes possibly a dress even though they always end up being short) They might not have been the best quality but, I thought whatever piece I selected would be a nice addition to my fall wardrobe and it was worth heading to the store and taking a look at/trying on the actual items.

Unfortunatley, because I waited a hot second to scope it out everything was gone and Target's site was down before I even had a chance to change my mind about going. Then, I was reading people's reactions and experiences about the whole thing and I was even more disgusted that Target hadn't planned it out better. One woman actually had to fighr people to get her items, got stuck in line for 45+ minutes, and then had to leave in tears without purchasing anything because of a child related obligation. Overreacting? Maybe but, my heart went out to her anyway.

Photo courtesy of webguild.com

Maybe the Target by you is nice and friendly, maybe they still have some Missoni pieces left over (where do you live?) but, that does not describe the majority of the Targets by me. My experience would have been like that woman's (minus the child) or worse. If I come across Missoni in the sales racks or at a Target far away from home I will take a look, maybe even try the items on if they are in my size but, I am so beyond the sensationalized overraction that I never even got to really have in the first place.

Check out everyone else's answers over at Modly Chic!

October 4, 2011: Emergency Shoes

We all know how I feel about the commuter shoe but, today I found myself in a situation with an unexpected amount of schlepping around. I got a panicked phone call shortly after arriving at work from a friend telling me that another mutual friend of ours was dizzy, vomiting, and (worst of all) alone. When she was describing the symptoms to me it sounded like vertigo which I can say from past experience is one of the worst things to experience.

So I talked with my boss and rushed to my sick friends aide but, after pounding the pavement from my office to her apartment I had to take off my shoes to hike up the five flights of stairs to her place. Sufficed to say at that point I was done with all the fancy-ness of those t-straps and I needed an alternative pair of shoes. Thankfully, she lent me some flats. I love how well they complimented my outfit. As much as I might have helped her today by getting her to the doctor and back home she totally saved my feet!

• Top: blue ruffled blouse, Atelier via Loehmanns; tank top underneath for the modesty; black blazer, Ann Taylor via Melissa
• Bottom: black and white tweed pencil skirt, Isaac Mizrahi for Target via The Unique Thrift Store
• Shoes & Accessories: black patent leather t-strap pumps, LOFT; blue multi colored peep toe flats, Madden Girl via Katie; black ultra sheer stockings, Hanes Silk Reflections via Robert Veridi's Luxe Lab; Femme Fatale Necklace, Stella & Dot; silver bead earrings, Tiffany & Co.; gray and black Ashley shoulder bag, Pietro Alessandro

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

I'll Show You What I Got

So, on a total impulse I decided to enter the Kmart "Show Us What You Got!" contest. The 10 finalists get a $100 gift card to shop and a Samsung Galaxy Tab! I entered at the end of voting and their website is being all wonky so you might have trouble viewing the video but, if you get a chance please head over there now, I will totally freak out if I win!!! Also, if you don't see me immediately you can search my entry by typing "iris c" into the search field.

Thanks so much for the help!