Weekend Wear: DIY Social Butterfly

There were a few things going on this weekend on top of of normal weekend activities (grocery/laundry/tidying up/mulching) like, brunch breakfast on the Upper East Side with a friend visiting from out of state and a baby shower out on the (almost) end of Long Island for my cousin in-law. Did I mention they were both in the same day? Nope, well you can imagine the travel involved... You're not from here? Trust me, it's a substantial amount. Since I needed to be ready to go from spin class to breakfast to baby shower I may or may not have resembled a bag lady in the morning leaving the house. Baby Gift? Check. Gym Bag? Check. Awesome outfit to seamlessly transition through the days activities? Check, although it took me a while to get there.

It was particularly challenging to identify something from my current wardrobe options that fit and was appropriate for the prescribed setting of the baby shower. Two words: Country. Club. After going through my options I wasn't left with many choices. Thanks, less body... The whole process was frustrating, to say the least, and I was about to give up when I caught a glimpse of this fun, forgotten dress in pile of clothes to be tailored/sent to the tailor. When I tried it on I resembled (the child of) a housewife (playing dress up) which felt (ironically) appropriate. I just needed to find a way to make it work despite the lack of an all night tailor in my area. Enter tiny sewing kit! I made a few simple adjustments and the dress went from falling off and almost flashing people to what you see, how do you think it came out?

• Top: yellow hot air balloon printed dress, eShakti.com
• Shoes & Accessories: blue Orissa peep toe pump, Nine West (my wedding shoes;) pearl earrings, Macy's; bronze clutch, Brahmin c/o Vogue Magazine (not pictured)

I'm linking up with Watch What I'm Wearing and Sunday FUNday

Purchases & Acquisitions: May 2015

While I am not in the same (extremely limited) financial position I was when I started the blog I still need to be cognizant of the money I spend, especially considering that shopping/swapping is more of a necessity (read: nothing fits.) I think it's a good idea to keep track of the items that I obtain for a few reasons. First, it will help me to keep be aware of my spending (the tens and tens of dollars.) Also, it will help you to see what I have acquired as opposed to things that are just being brought out of my wardrobe archives.

This past month I went consignment/thrift "crazy!" While I was away for the long weekend I went to some of my favorite stores in Richmond, VA and I did not leave empty handed. I also stopped by a more local store on my way home from work one night and they were having a mega clearance sale. Lucky for me there was also some gifting going on this month!

Gift(s)

• gray blouse, Free People

Clementine - $126.36

• black, red, and white polka dot maxi dress, Banana Republic
• pink patterned capri pants, LOFT
• pink ruffle embellished shift, LOFT
• NWT black and white capri pants, J Crew
• purple and white gingham shirt, J Crew 

Ashby - $40.01

• black and white printed pants, Kenar
• beige floral dress, Merona
• black and white bicycle wheel print dress, Jason Wu for Target

Current Consignment - $10.00

• blue and ivory sun dress, Calypso St. Barths

Overall, I spent $176.37 and obtained an eclectic selection of pieces to add to my wardrobe that I have already started utilizing. While I know I need clothes to fill in the wardrobe gaps, I don't think it's sustainable to shop like this every month. The amount I just spent is more than I spent on all my purchases combined in the first year of 260 Days, No Repeats! Also, I still only have tens and tens of dollars.

UPDATE: This morning I got two eshakti.com dresses... What? They were having a sale and I had a gift card/coupon. I basically got two dresses for $72.35 (customization and shipping included) AKA less than the price of one dress. I do not regret my decision. Adjusted total spending is $244.72 which is a little less than I spent on all purchases combined in year two or 260 Days, No Repeats. I am now feeling conflicted. I might need to not eat for the rest of the week... 

Friday Already?

Is it really Friday? Excellent! This (short) week has (seemingly) flown by and even though we are coming off of a (hypothetically) relaxing long weekend I am more than ready to have another little break. Having a long weekend can be extremely productive if you stay home but, if you go away all of your "fun" weekend chores spill over into the week which is what I have been contending with. Grocery? Nope. Laundry? Barely. Tidying up? Hahaha, you're funny but, I digress...

Today I gave up on my attempts to avoid jeans, which are normally allowable, on casual Friday. I had my reasons, at the beginning of the week when I put all these fabulous outfits together it was supposed to be cooler... thanks for lying, the weather. Also, it has been a crazy week (see aforementioned) and I am embracing the laid back attitude of casual Friday. Overall, I wanted to and is there any better reason that that?

• Top: coral embellished tank top, LOFT; khaki green blazer, GAP
• Bottom: skinny jeans, BDG via Goodwill
• Shoes & Accessories: tan gladiator sandals, Christian Siriano for Payless; chantilly lace chandelier earrings, Stella & Dot 

I'm linking up with Fab Favorites, Favorite Fashion Friday, Passion 4 Fashion, and Casual Friday

Jacket Strongly Suggested

While I love mixing and matching separates as much as the next person sometimes you just want to wear a suit. Whether it is because the situation expressly calls for it or you are just feeling that a suit is more appropriate it is good to have at least one good suit in your wardrobe as a standby for such occasions. Even though I have amassed a moderate suit wardrobe none of them fit me (as you all know) and that is getting old. I think it's time to suck it up and buy at least one new suit even if I could still end up losing more face because today is one of those work days where a suit would have been more appropriate. 

Even though I feel like a suit might have been a more appropriate ensemble today, I am in love with the skirt I am wearing. Yay, other clothes too! But, I digress... first of all it's tweed and we all know how I feel about that. Secondly, if you look closely you'll see, the tweed has a rainbow of colors integrated amidst the overall black and white color combo. When I came across it in Goodwill I was drawn to the tweed but, I couldn't put it down after I tried it on because of all the subtle colors. What was the last item you can across while shopping that was just meant to be part of your wardrobe?

• Top: red ruffled embellished tank top, apostrophe via Goodwill; black blazer, Ann Taylor
• Bottom: rainbow tweed skirt, Tahari via Goodwill
• Shoes & Accessories: black black pumps, bflexible by Bandolino; silver bead earrings, Tiffany & Co. 

I most recently wore this blazer here.

I'm linking up with Spotlight Style, What I Wore to Work, I Feel Pretty, Look What I Got, and  Fashion Files

(Business) Casual

Did you notice that it became summer yesterday? No? Maybe it wasn't as hot by you as it was here in New York City. Even though the official start of the summer season is not for a few weeks the temperatures climbed to 88°! While I love warmer weather, I regretted wearing what I did yesterday, namely the black cardigan sweater. It felt a little oppressive especially after I left the nice air conditioned office to go get lunch. If this feels like too heat much now, how am I going to survive the (actual) summer season?

Since there isn't anything formal going on today at work I decided to lean more towards to "casual" side of business casual. Also, I was just itching to wear these pants I picked up over the weekend, aren't they great? I had been scouring stores for this kind of color/pattern combo to no avail but, finally found them at one of my favorite stores which just so happens to be in Richmond, VA. A long way to travel for clothes I know but, Ashby is just that good... kidding, I have family in the area and great thrift shopping is just a bonus. Do you have any special shopping spots to hit while your on vaca?

• Top: orange button down shirt, Eddie Bauer
• Bottom: black and white printed pants, Kenar via Ashby
• Shoes & Accessories: purple Reva ballet flats, Tory Burch; pearl earrings, Macys 

I'm linking up with What I Wore, Watcha Wearing Wednesday, Style Me Wednesday, Mid-Week Muse

Grind In Style

How was your Memorial Day weekend? Good, glad to hear it! Mine was relaxing and fun but, I could still use a least five three one more days since I spent a good amount of time in transit. Next holiday weekend, I think I will make it a seven six five day weekend but, I digress... One thing about taking a vacation weekend is that there is limited (if any) time for picture taking Sundays which normally enhances my ability to blog normally throughout the week. I apologize in advance for delays, if any. 

Coming back to reality from the holiday weekend and pulling myself out of bed this morning was even more of a challenge than normal but, I'm determined to get back to my daily routine. Early morning spin? Check. Getting to work a little early? Check. That about sums up my morning but, it makes me happy when I can complete these tasks as seamlessly as possible... A simple (and stylish) outfit is a huge part of making that happen. A sweater and skirt/pants is my go to combination to accomplish this. What does your ensemble look like when you are back at work after a holiday weekend?

• Top: black cardigan, Merona
• Bottom: gray lace skirt, Tara Jarmon for Target
• Shoes & Accessories: black pumps, bflexible by Bandolino; black pearl earrings, International Gem and Jewelry Show

I'm linking up with Trend Spin, All About You, and Confident Twosdays

Happy Memorial Day

Long Weekend

I hope you are all gearing up for an epic Memorial Day weekend! You are? Phew... that could have been awkward. Today I am getting a head start on the festivities and, if you follow me on Instagram (like you should) you'll be able to check in to see how things are going... (vague) spoiler alert: it will be fun times with family and friends, what are your plans?

Weekend Wonting

Is it Friday yet? I feel like it should be, don't you? Can't you just feel the long weekend calling? No? Ok, fine... let's talk about this shirt. You all (should) know how I feel about stripes. They contribute heavily to a fashion wasteland but, sometimes I'm into it so it's no big deal. This simple navy and white striped shirt is a big deal (to me) though. I spent months (seriously) searching in thrift/regular stores to find the most classic of striped shirts to no avail.

I finally caved and started searching online and wasn't having significantly different luck... After a few tries perusing Google Shopping I came across the website for Christopher & Banks and they had exactly what I wanted (finally) it so I ordered it based on the size chart and waiting with bated breathe for it to arrive. When the shirt came it was HUGE, I should have just ordered a few sizes to try on because that is the story of my life but, I digress... when I went back on the website almost all the sizes were sold out in almost all the colors and I (still) had no idea what size I am was so, I took a chance and ordered the smallest size based on my experience trying on the first shirt and it fits well... who knew?

• Top: navy and white striped shirt, Christopher & Banks
• Bottom: khaki green capris, Not Your Daughter's Jeans via Marshalls
• Shoes & Accessories: nude flats, Coach; pearl earrings, Macys; vintage pearl necklace, my grandmother's jewelry box 

Tweed Day

If you didn't already know, I have a thing for tweed. I will wear it whatever the season and don't necessarily limit it to clothing items (see shoes.) I'm not sure where the attraction comes from but, that's ok. Maybe it's the way that tweed can squeeze lots of colors into one item of clothing or how classic it is (two words: Chanel Suit.) Whatever the reason I have come to terms with my strong affinity for looking like a librarian or a professor. I'll draw the line at shoulder patches but, I digress...

When I saw this tweed blazer on the sale rack at ReDress in Brooklyn many moons ago, before they closed, I was instantly drawn to it (shocker.) To my surprise the blazer had a matching skirt (AKA a suit) but, in all years since I purchased it I haven't ever worn it. It's a shame since both pieces were a little tight when I bought them and are a little lot loose now... I'm not sure how much longer I'm going to be able to pull both pieces off because wearing things that are too big on you is similarly awkward to wearing things that are too small., life lessons.

• Top: ivory tank top, LOFT; greed tweed blazer, H&M via ReDress
• Bottom: black pencil skirt, Old Navy
• Shoes & Accessories: black pumps, bflexible by Bandolino; mother of pearl earrings, Elizabeth Showers Vintage

I'm linking up with What I Wore, Watcha Wearing Wednesdays, What I Wore, Style Me Wednesday, Mid-Week Muse.

Pattern Mixing Redux

When I first started blogging my fashion stylings were a little "vanilla." Then, as time progressed, I got more comfortable with the "institution" of fashion blogging I began trying new things and experimenting with bolder pairings. I can't say they were all amazing ensembles but, they were different, fun, and helped me accomplish my goal of one year, no repeats to work. One of the tools that I kept/keep coming back to when putting together outfits is pattern mixing but, as I drifted away from fashion blogging pattern mixing wasn't a thing anymore. I have a feeling it might be experiencing a come back... polka dots and snake print that's cray cray. How do you put together creative, fun outfits?

• Top: ivory ruffle embellished tank top, Ralph Lauren Sport via Current Consignment; brown blazer, LOFT
• Bottom: yellow and brown polka dot skirt, Merona
• Shoes & Accessories: snake print pumps, Nine West; pearl earrings, Macys 

I most recently wore this blazer here.

I'm linking up with Trend Spin, Style Swap Tuesdays, All About You, and Confident Twosdays

Basic Black "Suit"

This weekend we moved picture taking Sunday to a different part of the lawn where the sun was not trying to blind me (awkward face.) I guess later in the day would be better next time but, I digress... at least we got it done unlike last week. Like last Monday I am all about getting down to business can't you tell form my serious face? No, fine... good thing I'm wearing this "suit" to convey the serious and professional nature of my attitude. Also, I'm presenting today so my ensemble needs to be in line with that and we've I've leaned separates are the best when you are in between suits.  

Let's talk about this shirt for a moment. Have you ever found something while perusing a store that just seemed too good to be true? That was this shirt... While combing through the clearance rack at a local consignment store the bold pattern caught my eye. When I picked it up I realized, after the double take, that it was Missoni, real Missoni (yay) for 75% off the already reduced price (more yay.) After I tried it on and it fit how could I not buy it? There was no way, it was meant to be. What have been some of your greatest shopping "steals?"

• Top: orange striped tank top, Missoni via Current Consignment; black blazer, Ann Taylor
• Bottom: black slacks, Ann Taylor via Goodwill
• Shoes & Accessories: black pumps, Nine West; pearl earrings, Macys 

I most recently wore this blazer here.

I'm linking up with Style to Inspire, Mix It Mondays, Visible Monday, Let It Shine, How I Spring, Monday Mingle, Creative Mondays, Two Birds, and Personal Style Monday

Casual (Non-Denim) Friday

After my introspective "to jean or not to jean" question last Friday it was still on my mind as casual Friday rolled around again. As I planned my (last minute) outfit  I considered all the valid points from the article I tweeted that were made in support of skipping denim like:

• Is the traditional practice really in the best interest of the unstoppable, career-driven women of today. 
• The idea wasn't created with women’s fashions in mind...  What’s the female equivalent of skipping the tie and jacket?
• Female leaders, whether we like it or not, have long been relying on style to help gain respect, influence or power in ways in which men frankly have not had to
• While there is still a clear uniform for men, women instead have endless options, and each possible choice invites its own scrutiny from others

So, despite my true desires, I decided not to wear jeans on Fridays. While my actions were contrary to how I normally feel they were made much easier compounded by the fact that I was giving a formal performance evaluation to someone. In that moment, when your entire interaction is imbued with corporate structure and formality, it made sense. We'll see about next Friday... 

• Top: blue gray ruffle embellished cardigan, Merona 
• Bottom: black capri pants, Lands End
• Shoes & Accessories: leopard print flats, Seychelles; silver bead earrings, Tiffany & Co. 

Pencil Skirt For The Win

Wednesday night was the last night of my certification/professional development test prep class (yay?) I enjoyed being back in the classroom enhancing my knowledge of things but, it wasn't all "message in a dry erase pen on the door" and frat party fun. I have a whole new respect for people who work full time while going back to school. It is exhausting. Thankfully, now that the class has come to an end I can get back to normal life (crazy work, house stuff, blogging) while continuing to study on my own time for the test in June. 

I more impressed with the fact that I pulled off a more polished outfit than last week. That's not to say that capris and a sweater are unprofessional (they're not) but, a pencil skirt and sweater trumps the former in professional style points every time, don't you think? My picture location (dressing room) is just another reminder that planning ahead for blogging things it better than winging it throughout the busy work week. Lesson learned...

• Top: purple sweater, Sonoma 
• Bottom: ivory and black animal print pencil skirt, LOFT
• Shoes & Accessories: black pumps, bflexible by Bandolino; black pearl earrings, International Gem and Jewelry Show

New (Stripe) Perspective

Stripes are everywhere! Who knew that the shopping world would be overflowing with an influx of the simplest patterns known to humans, stripes and polka dots... While I find myself frustrated with the lack of other options, when shopping, I still find myself drawn to them. That is true even despite the fact that as a curvier person I was always warned of all they ways they would negatively enhance my appearance. When I saw this dress on the sale rack in one of my favorite thrift stores I gravitated towards it immediately. It must have been the original pattern, black and tan stripes, revolutionary! Then things got cray cray. 

I was a initially deterred by the "small" size but, decided it couldn't hurt to try it on. I was pleasantly surprised to discover that my body dysmorphia concern about the size was mostly unwarranted, the dress fit. Beyond that, it looked lovely and extremely professional after I paired it with a blazer. Other people said so too! However, wearing this dress to work (even with super SPANX) was a different story. Everything was out there! Not in an inappropriate way just in a "closer to my body than I am used to" way with the added bonus of stripes to highlight all the things or not...

• Top: black and tan striped dress, Spense via Ashby; black blazer, Ann Taylor
• Shoes & Accessories: black pumps, bflexible by Bandolino; black pearl earrings, International Gem and Jewelry Show

I had said before that I wanted to highlight when I had previously worn something so I'm going to try this: I most recently wore this blazer here. We'll see how that evolves if at all... 

Sick Day

I am falling apart guys! Not really but, when you normally schedule sick days and then actually get sick (pink eye maybe?) it feels a little awkward. My supervisor is totally understanding but, it stresses me out. Work doesn't get done when I'm not there and it's just waiting for me when I get back. Also, I had an awesome outfit planned. That's the real tragedy... priorities.

Motivational Monday

So last week worked really well in terms of picture taking Sunday, getting all of the awesome posts out on time, and scheduling a sprinkling of social media posting. Yup, crushed it! This weekend didn't work out the way I wanted it to. Besides Mother's Day being this weekend I find that there normally isn't enough time to do all the things I would hope to get done in a weekend. It becomes a balancing act of social obligations, chores (mulching anyone?) and other personal responsibilities. How about you?

No wonder Mondays have a bad rep! After coming out of the weekend where you may or may not have accomplished all the goals you set out for yourself it makes sense that you don't want to tear yourself out of bed and go to work. Maybe that's just me but, when you think about that how is that different that any day of the week? I multitask, as I'm sure most of you do, and run errands during lunch or after work able to get up the next morning ready to go, more or less... Maybe if we approach Mondays with a more "ass kicking" "can do" attitude  like other days of the week it will kick the proverbial case of the Mondays to the curb. So, that's what I'm going to try this week: I am super excited to get to work this morning and get things done!

• Top: purple sleeveless sweater, New York & Company; brown blazer, LOFT
• Bottom: yellow fresh bloom pencil skirt, LOFT
• Shoes & Accessories: brown pumps, Candies via Kohls; mother of pearl earrings, Elizabeth Showers Vintage

Nail Files: Expressionist

As you might have seen there was a flurry of articles this week regarding health concerns and abhorrent conditions for nail salon workers in New York City and surrounding areas. You didn't see them? Well, if you were following me on Twitter you would have. The articles definitely made me think about this industry that I have been partaking in (however irregularly) since high school in a different light and right as the pedicure season is upon us... But, do I really want to support an industry that does not properly compensate their hard workers? How about one that puts them at risk for major health problems? Not, really. How about you?

This weekend I gave myself a mani/pedi. It wasn't as intricate as last week but, thanks to Nailipop manicure strips it didn't have to be to look that way. I love all the colors in this design and putting them on was a piece of cake. Here are some things that I know to be true about putting on manicure strips:

1. Make sure your nails are super clean before you start.
2. Make sure that you hold the nail strip to your nail for at least 30 seconds so that it adheres effectively. The stickiness of the strip and the heat from your hand should help create a strong bond.
3. File the manicure strip in a DOWNWARD motion it’ll help keep the end of the strip from lifting with a small grit file to create and even/clean edge.

These tips works with every type of nail strip I have tried so far. Do you use nail strips or do you stick with polish? If so, what types of polish strips do you prefer. 

Casual Friday, With a Twist

While tweeting up a storm last week I came across an article about reasons for opting out of Casual Friday. I was intrigued, as I'm sure you are. What would possess someone to want to give up their well earned Friday comfy time? Well, after perusing the article I noted some very valid points and gave the whole idea some more consideration. It lead me to realize that many of the senior members of my department (all women) choose not to wear jeans on Friday. They might wear fun colored or patterned pants but, no jeans. Maybe it's time to give it try and do something different so today I am not wearing jeans! I am wearing a denim skirt, baby steps.

We also have to talk about my sandals. I bought these sandals in 2008 then in 2011 they died, then a few weeks ago we crossed paths again! I was wandering around Brooklyn with a friend and we stopped at an awesome local thrift store. I found these sandals (brand new with the tags) in my new skinnier shoe size... it was meant to be. The only issue was that because of how long they had been sitting around unworn the heels were falling off which I didn't notice until after I tried to wear them for the first time, awkward... Lucky for me Hubby is pretty handy at fixing things, even shoes, problem solved. Now, inquiring minds want to know: Do you think it's a good idea to opt out of casual Friday? Would you skip your office jeans time?

• Top: floral t-shirt, Simply Vera by Vera Wang for Kohls; brown blazer, LOFT
• Bottom: denim pencil skirt, Torrid
• Shoes & Accessories: silver sandals, Isaac Mizrahi for Target via Buffalo Exchange; silver wire flower earrings, MOMA

I'm linking up with Fashion Fun Friday

Be(e) Happy

We are in a whole new world! That's right, my back yard. Anyway, Wednesdays are a late night for me. As I mentioned previously I am taking a certification/professional development test prep class after work for the next few weeks and I don't get home until practically bedtime. Then, I wake up at the crack of dawn (as I did this AM) to go to spin class so,  when it comes to my outfit I am definitely looking for something low key and comfortable. Besides, it's almost Friday.

Today, I am wearing clothes (yay) but, my favorite thing about my outfit is these shoes! Although the pants are a close second. They were on consignment clearance and are a size that makes me feel really amazing about myself for arbitrary reasons. But, I digress... when the announcement was made that C Wonder was going out of business I was definitely one of the vultures shoppers who investigated the closing sales. I got a few things but, my crowning (shopping) achievement were these shoes. They are comfortable (win) and fun (bonus points.) Check out a detail shot of the shoes here. Did you get anything when C Wonder was closing?

• Top: coral sweater, GAP
• Bottom: brown plaid ankle pants, J Crew via Current Consignment 
• Shoes & Accessories: navy "bee happy" loafers, C Wonder; pearl earrings, Macys; vintage pearl necklace, my grandmother's jewelry box 

I'm linking up with What I Wore to Work, Throwback Thursday, Thursday Fashion Files, Thursday Favorite Things

Separates Attract

I know, I know, my secret is out, we Hubby took all of my outfit pictures over the weekend. It was better for me given my schedule between gym, work, and this certification/professional development test prep class I am in for the next few weeks. The only issue with advance outfit planning/pictures is that I have to rely on the weather as it is available over the weekend and as we all know meteorology can sometimes feel about as scientific and accurate as fortune telling. I was under the impression that yesterday and today were supposed to be rainy and terrible so, I went with pants and was even getting ready to tuck them into my boots on the way to work... maybe a little overkill.

If you had followed along with my foray into the world of Wordpress you might have seen the post I wrote about suit separates/faking a suit. That's the vibe I am getting from my outfit today even though that was not necessarily my intention. Although, it should have been because I have a recruitment event today but, I digress... As you read (and could probably deduce) most all of my suits don't fit me. I resemble a child playing dress up. It's frustrating to say the least, Suits don't grow on trees! But, enough about my wardrobe "problems," I'll make it work. Overall, I like the way this "suit-esque" ensemble came out even though I wasn't distinctly trying to fake a suit. What do you prefer, suits or separates?

• Top: maroon dolman sleeve blouse, Style & Co.; black blazer, Ann Taylor
• Bottom: black pinstripe pants, Ann Taylor via Goodwill
• Shoes & Accessories: black pumps, Nine West; pearl earrings, Macys

I'm linking up with I Feel Pretty, Random Wednesday, What I Wore, Mid-Week Muse, Style Me Wednesdays, Oh Hey Girl!, Trendy Wednesday, Whatcha Wearing Wednesday, The Wednesday Pants, Style Elixer

(Jump)suit

Today is my Monday this week and I am getting back to business. Can't you tell from my serious face? You're right, this isn't a serious face at all... I'll work on that. Especially since I am starting today out at the gym and my spin instructor is no joke. On another note, what do you think of the new picture location? That's our deck (squeee,) home ownership has it's perks!

Now lets talk about my outfit, I got this jumpsuit about a year ago to wear during my bachelorette weekend extravaganza. My thought was that the jumpsuit would look fancy enough to go to a club (or where my bridesmaids ended up taking me) and, comfy enough to stay out all night long. I was correct, it totally was. Given the bachelorette success I have been utilizing it on other ways so, why not wear it to the office? The word suit is in the name after all, totes professional. I know that it will be a super comfy ensemble so I can catch up on anything I missed yesterday or at least that's the plan. What is your go to comfy work outfit?

• Top: black jumpsuit, Tiana B via Marshalls; black short sleeved blazer, Juicy Couture via Ashby
• Shoes & Accessories: black pumps, Nine West; signature clover chandelier earrings, Stella & Dot

Nail Files: Pool Boy Tips

Every weekend, more or less, I give myself a manicure (and possibly pedicure.) Haven't you seen them on Instagram? No, well, follow me here. Since most manicures don't last more than a week, if that, and I prefer the polished look, overall, it makes sense that a manicure would be part of my weekend routine. Why not go get my manicure done at a salon? There are a few reasons... 

• Practice makes perfect
• I am trying to work through all the goodies I currently have
• Manicures don't grow on trees

This week I couldn't get the idea of a twist on a french manicure out of my head so I went for it using Obsessive Compulsive Cosmetics Pool Boy from a past POPSUGAR Must Have box. It just screams "spring" to me, how about you? No, well get your hearing checked. I used to think that giving myself a french manicure would be impossible, especially when using my non-dominant hand, but, as you can see, practice makes perfect less messy. What kind of manicure are you rocking this week? 

I'm linking up with Trend Spin

Sick Day

I know you guys are sad that I'm not here with another (amazing) ensemble. Don't worry, I will be back tomorrow with another (awesome) outfit!

TGIF and another things

So here we are again! I am loving it aren't you? Well, you will be. Why? Because, I said so. Now that we got that awkward turtle moment out of the way we can talk about other things like my face... One thing that you might notice if you have been clicking through pictures here on 260 Days, No Repeats is my general appearance. If you have taken time to compare it to my general appearance on (the now defunct) 260 Day Redux you might notice something (substantially?) different.

That's right, there is a bit less face as of late and you would be correct in assuming that there is a bit less of all of me. I have been going to the gym in an attempt to be a healthier, happier me. There have been some positive side effects (less of me) and some less happy side effects (fewer clothing options.) My weight loss has been substantial enough that there are lots of items I can't wear anymore because they are falling off, swimming on me, allowing too much skin to show, etc. It has been truly bitter sweet to say goodbye to old clothing favorites while shopping for new clothes out of sheer necessity. It has also been challenging for me to come to terms with this new body. I am happy, don't get me wrong but, I can't remember a time when I was ever this small in my entire tween/young adult life and I am experiencing a disconnect (at times) to say the least.

Enough about my face let's talk about my clothes. It's Friday (yay) and, unlike my old company, my current company practices Casual Friday as a regular thing (thank goodness!) I have heard/read that flared jeans are the way for spring and that skinnys are a thing of the past. That's great for everyone who isn't a (physically) hippy person but, not for those of us that are. I don't mind giving the skinny jeans a rest every now and then but, I won't be trading them in for flared jeans anytime soon. Then again maybe my new body would look good in flared jeans... I might need to explore that option the next time I go shopping. What is your take on the new 70's denim vibe? Are you already in flares or are you holding on to your skinny jeans?

• Top: pink ruffle embellished t-shirt, Merona for Target; black pinstripe blazer, Calvin Klein
• Bottom: wide leg jeans, Michael Kors via Ashby
• Shoes & Accessories: silver cap toe ballet flats, Guiseppe Zanotti via Buffalo Exchange; silver bead earrings, Tiffany & Co. 

Remember when I used to post links to where wardrobe items were previously seen in an ensemble? No? Well, look at most previous posts. I'm not going to be pulling everything up from the archives but, moving forward I would like to highlight when I utilize an item more than once. Perhaps not the same way, it was extremely laborious. We'll see what I come up with when we get to that point... next week. What? Blazers don't grow on trees.