Diamond in the Rough

I would love to say that commuting and work have gotten smoother but, that would be a bold faced lie which I'm sure you could determine since we are getting a bit off schedule. Let's not talk about that, let's instead talk about this amazing blouse that I dug up at H&M. When H&M opened it's first store in New York City I was like any other high school girl at the time and flocked there for the quirky items and "deals" that everyone, from my peer group to iconic magazines, were raving about. I had no problem digging though the racks to snag fairly basic items but, be extremely excited about them because they were something new and popular; also, let's face it... high school.

When I shop now H&M is not a store that I normally frequent because I have found the time spent searching for something I like, that is good quality, the fits my body type, etc. not worth it having had so few shopping successes. This shirt is an exception to all that. As I was quickly breezing through my local H&M this shirt caught my eye. The color is one my favorites, the delicate details are spot on, and I needed clothing for work. The only negative thing (for me) was a humongous rhinestone right at the collar but, I decided to try it on anyway. We should all be happy I did because it looked is really cute, as you can see. Where is the rhinestone now? Excised.

• Top: mustard pintuck blouse, H&M; black blazer, Juicy Couture via Ashby 
• Bottom: black and white leopard pencil skirt, LOFT 
• Shoes & Accessories: black t-strap sandals, LOFT; black pearl earrings, International Gem and Jewelry Show 

I most recently wore this blazer here.

Function Over Form

Today's outfit was born from necessity. After the mini tornado yesterday (hail, no joke,) non-stop torrential down pour overnight, and ongoing showers this morning things are pretty gross. Despite the fact that on Mondays I try to like to keep things positive there is no way around that statement, it's a fact. Fortunately, that doesn't mean I can't motivate and make it work; I'm channeling a "storm" outfit (that's what boots and skinny pants are for after all) which is appropriate for what the forecast suggested.

You would assume that skinny pants were something readily available to me but, you would be mistaken. I recovered these from the tailoring pile because they needed hemming. Also, these pants are a size (or three two) too big. I'm hanging on them because they are stretchy and they work for now. Also, I'm tired of having to replace clothes but, I digress... I'm not sure how much longer these pants (and other items I'm too stubborn to let go of) will last. 

• Top: navy boatneck sweater, LOFT 
• Bottom: gray skinny pants, Mossimo
• Shoes & Accessories: black motorcycle rain boots, c/o Cougar AND leopard print flats, Seychelles (not pictured;) vintage silver earrings, my Abuela 

I'm linking up with Style to Inspire, Mix It Mondays, Let It Shine, How I Spring, Monday Mingle, Creative Mondays, 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. 

February 24, 2011: Out Of Practice

I love my BF. I wouldn't bother listing all the reasons why but, I know there's alot of evidence to support that fact. One which only came to light last night when I came home after work and set up my tripod to take an outfit picture (picture taking Sunday really needs to happen this week, for serious!) I snapped 5 or 6 pictures but, after a long day of work/commuting I figured I had gotten the shot and wrapped it up. After viewing the results I have to say it is official, I have lost my touch! Where would I be without my BF? I would be subjecting you to months of me figuring it all out again in my hallway. No, you're right we'll just wait for BF...

• Top: pink rosette embellished t-shirt, LOFT (same shirt different color here, here, and here); black safari jacket, LOFT
• Bottom: dark gray Hudson Wide Leg Pant, New York and Company/new job gift from Mom
• Shoes & Accessories: black ruffle embellished flats, Audrey Brooke via DSW; black and gray leopard print headband, 75% off $1.00 bin at Target; silver bead earrings, Tiffany & Co.; black Spy Bag, Fendi

Also, The Fuzz says "Hi!" Actually he's probably saying, "What's that over there?"

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

Powered by GoodWidgets.com

January 31, 2011: Dress For Success

Monday I went to work on a mission, I was going to give my two weeks notice. No, not on a whim; I got a new job! I have actually been look for a while sporadically but, recently it took a turn for the serious and within a week or two I was going on first and second round interviews and apparently acing them. More on that later though...

I was super nervous about giving my notice for a whole bunch of reasons like what if my boss gets mad at me or what is he offers me more money to stay (which wouldn't work) or what if he gets super sad? More importantly though, what if he gets mad at me? I was still hoping for a recommendation on top of the fact that I genuinely like my boss and want to stay BFF4L!

So, in an effort to calm my nerves I did that thing I do... got dressed. I know we've talked about this before but, I would just like to reiterate my firm belief in the fact that when you look put together you exude more confidence and in turn feel more confident of yourself or at least I do. So animal print mixed with animal print and killer heels in the snow it was. Too bad he was on vacation yesterday.

• Top: purple v-neck sweater, H&M; leopard tank top underneath for the modesty, Express
• Bottom:  ivory and black animal print pencil skirt, LOFT/birthday gift from BF's mom
• Shoes & Accessories: black pumps, Candies via Kohl's; gray tights, We Love Colors; gray labradorite earrings, Pennyweights; silver bag, L.A.M.B via Loehmanns 

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

Powered by GoodWidgets.com

Night Out: New Years House Party

What did you end up doing for New Years? I was performing in a chorus line... no wait, that's not right. One of my friends had a house party and heading over there before the ball dropped was a no brainer. BF took this picture at 4 in the morning when we got home; I just had to bring down the house with my assorted performing arts skills but, I digress... What to wear took a little more thought. I knew I wanted to keep it casual and wear jeans but, just any old jeans wouldn't do! Thankfully I found these chic trouser jeans while I was exchanging/returning some Christmas gifts at LOFT. These pants had some weird buttons on the pockets that I removed and I hemmed them because apparently I am shrinking but, other than that perfect! I should just quit my day job and become a tailor or a dancer, decisions decisions...

I also knew even though I wasn't going to be super fancy I still wanted to shine and/or sparkle (dancer for sure.) I had this shirt waiting in the wings but, was hoping to come across something else. My fashion prayers were answered when I stopped into TJ Maxx to pick up the last part of the awesome gift my brother I and myself got our mom. Thankfully I still had a little bit of cash left over from the shopping errands I ran for my dad and this glitzy number was on super sale. Mission accomplished now let's dance!

• Top: green t-shirt with sequins embellishment, Ellen Tracy via TJ Maxx/gift from Dad; white tank top, New York and Company
• Bottom: double waistband denim trouser tailored by me, LOFT Christmas Gift
• Shoes & Accessories: leopard print flats, New York and Company; Swarovski crystal teardrop earrings, V'ta jewelry; purple tote bag, Coach (not pictured)

December 14, 2010: First Snow

When I woke up yesterday I was greeted by a layer of the white stuff on the ground. That sneaky overnight precipitation added nicely to my feeling of blah after the non-stop weekend, it was an epic battle to get out of bed and both sides suffered casualities. Snow (even if it's only a half an inch) always makes me want to crawl back under the covers, adults should have snow days too! I don't know who says it's not winter yet but, I would beg to differ. Anyway... I toughed it out (in the words of my boss) and got ready for work but, there was no room for chances. I threw on my trusty Cougar boots and a big comfy sweater to keep warm, a stylish compromise. What's your favorite way to stay stylish and keep warm?

• Top: beige cowl neck sweater, Old Navy; white tank top underneath for the modesty
• Bottom: gray really skinny pants, GAP/gift from BF
• Shoes & Accessories:  black Ringo Star snow boots, courtesy of Cougar; moonstone earrings, V'ta jewelry; leopard print headband, Target $1.00 bin (marked down to $.25!); black spy bag, Fendi 

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

Powered by GoodWidgets.com

Weekend Wear: Christmas Tree

For the first time in my life I went to a Christmas tree farm to get our tree with BF and a friend. I had always envisioned that trip to be one where I would be bundled up in my trusty coat with a hat, gloves, and crazy snow boots to combat the winter chill. That was not the case yesterday since it was unseasonably warm and raining... One thing I did stick with though was the boots because I couldn't wait to try out my new Cougar snow boots! It is taking too long for the white stuff to get here...

I have to say they are every bit as fantastic in practical use and they were when I tried them on in my apartment! They fit perfectly even though they are a half size smaller than I would normally wear. They were 100% waterproof (which I tested by sloshing around in puddles like a small child) and they kept my feet nice and toasty. I was a little apprehensive about the fur around the top of the boot when I tried them on at home because I have pretty large calves and the fur (in my opinion) made my calf look even bigger when I wore it folded down. Thankfully the extra long laces allowed me to tie the cuffs up and control the fluff! Plus, I could show of the little Cougar logo in the back. Lastly, on top of everything else they garnered lots of compliments! I would call that an awesome boot...

We also ended up getting a lovely tree! It was definitely different from driving around locally and buying a tree from some people who have set up shop outside a super market/gas station/pharmacy under the subway (which sounds like oxymoron I know but, it's not) I don't know if I would want to have to drive as far next year but, it was worth the experience plus, we got to see one of my cousin's who lives near there. Awesome boots, great tree, and fun times with family and friends sounds like an amazing trip to me!

• Top: navy and white striped hoodie, GAP outlet; yellow and leopard print tank tops (for the modesty) Proenza Schouler for Target and Express respectively
• Bottom: denim jeggings, LOFT/birthday gift from Mom
• Shoes & Accessories: black Ringo Star snow boot, courtesty of Cougar; blue goldstone earrings, mall kiosk in California; gray le-dix/motorcycle bag, Balenciaga

Weekend Wear: A Ruby Anniversary

One of my dearest friends parents (who are also very dear to me) are celebrating their 40th wedding anniversary next weekend. Congratualtions to them!! My friend, her brother, and sister-in-law are throwing them a party this weekend (to throw them off) and I was more than happy to attend and help out! In terms of what to wear and the gift I was at a loss. It was a casual affair but, still a special ocassion so... jeans? They're fancy and in italics so, that must be right. How about a shirt that "matches" the year's gift? Sounds good to me but, what is that? Plus, what do you get a couple of parents who seemingly have everything?

I'm sure everyone knows that for a 25th wedding anniversary you are supposed to buy the couple or your respective spouse silver, for the 50th anniversary it's gold and so on... but, what about the other anniversaries that are in no way less significant? Well, that's what the internet is for! The 40th wedding anniversary is the ruby anniversary so, I promptly headed out to the store to buy my friend's parents the biggest ruby I could find... then I snapped back to reality and realized I am quite cash poor and needed to find a little something that was significant without breaking the bank. Scroll down to see what I came up with... Happy Anniversary Anne and Rufus!

• Top: maroon sweater, ABStudio via Mom with a white tank top underneath for the modesty
• Bottom: denim jeggings, LOFT/birthday gift from Mom
• Shoes & Accessories: black and gray leopard print peep toe pumps, Hollywould for Target; cut steel earrings, V'ta Jewelry; gray balenciaga le-dix/motorocylce bag (not pictured)
• Gift: awesome ornament, Iris & BF... PRICELESS! 

Disclaimer: That is a heart to signify their love and anniversary-ness... I am not pregnant!
BF seemed to think this picture gave that message.

December 10, 2010: Broken Rules? Almost...

When I was day dreaming about what my Friday outfit would be on Thursday I had this great, totally unique idea... it looked something like this. Actually, it was exactly that with my trusty flyaway cardi belted over the tank with leopard print flats instead of sandals. I almost repeated an outfit, (gasp) for shame... Thankfully my groggy Friday morning self remembered wearing the zipper embellished tank top to work and put it all together before I made an egregious faux pas! (phew) I need to remember to check here so a potential disaster doesn't happen again...

Do you have any fun things planned for the weekend? I actually have quite a whirlwind ahead of me starting in about an hour and continuing into Monday but, that means potential fun weekend wear looks for you, wish me luck!

• Top: olive green rhinestone embellished tank top, New York and Company; gray flyaway cardigan, New York and Company
• Bottom: denim jeggings, LOFT/birthday gift from Mom
• Shoes & Accessories: leopard print flats, New York & Company; silver bead earrings, Tiffany & Co.; purple tote bag, Coach outlet 

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

December 2, 2010: Crack of Dawn

I know you're all curious about my fun surprise from BF. He took me to see Cirque du Soleil's Wintuk! I was a bit skeptical at first since it is a more family geared production but, it did not disappoint. If any of you are in the NYC area I would recommend getting tickets since this will be it's final season here.

Yesterday morning I had a meeting in White Plains (40+ minutes north of NYC for those of you not from around here) at 8:30 in the morning. It was hard to get out of bed so early and make it there on time after the fun night out on the town but, keeping the outfit simple definitely helped! Skinny pants are a life saver. 

You might be thinking that I wore this outfit already but, naturally you are seeing things and going crazy because I would never repeat an outfit!! Well, at least not in the time frame of this year... I did wear a similar outfit during my "You've Got This" Fall challenge. Fortunately for all of us I'm keeping track.

• Top: maroon sweater, ABStudio via Mom with a white tank top underneath for the modesty
• Bottom: gray really skinny pants, GAP/gift from BF
• Shoes & Accessories:  leopard print flats, New York & Company; silver and garnet tiered earrings, Pennyweights; silver bag, L.A.M.B via Loehmanns

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

Powered by GoodWidgets.com

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)

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:

Powered by GoodWidgets.com

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)

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:

Powered by GoodWidgets.com

October 28, 2010: Pajama Like

I'm getting back into the groove of things... slowly but surely. At the end of last week I was all about making it to the weekend. Surprisingly it wasn't for the normal reasons, I had plans to hang out with my fav cousin before she moves to Chicago (in a hot second.) As you might have gathered the whole thing has happened in a flash but, it is really happening so I was glad to spend some quality time with her! Are any of you from Chicago? Do you have some advice for her before she heads off? How about some fun places to check out when she gets there? Hopefully I will time this right and we will be back to the regular outfit posting schedule tomorrow... hopefully.

• Top: gray short sleeve sweater, New York & Company with a tank top underneath for the modesty
• Bottom: black really skinny pants, GAP/gift from BF
• Shoes & Accessories: leopard print flats, New York & Company; tourmaline earrings, V'ta jewelry; purple tote bag, Coach outlet (not pictured)

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

Powered by GoodWidgets.com

September 30, 2010: I've Got Camel Print

 

Camel and animal print... yeah I know, I'm so witty! Anyway, I have a job fair to go to today so, I am dressing the part of a young Human Resources professional... like every other day. Why am I trying to escape, you ask? I don't know what you are talking about! Ok fine, job fairs are mixed bag, sometimes they can be really fun but, I have a feeling that today is not going to be one of those occasions. Hopefully it will go quickly so I can get back to the office. You didn't see anything... Except for my awesome outfit, that is!

• Top: camel v-neck sweater, GAP; gray leopard tank top (for the modesty), Express/gift from BF's mom
• Bottom: ivory and black animal print pencil skirt, LOFT/birthday gift from BF's mom  
• Shoes & Accessories: black patent leather t-strap pumps, LOFT; silver bead earrings, Tiffany & Co.; black spy bag, Fendi

 

 

Items from this outfit are previously seen here:

 

September 28, 2010: I've Got Jewel Tones, Skinny Pants, and a Little Leopard!

I have another training in the city today, exciting I know! The last time I was in the city for training I was the only person who was wearing jeans. I felt a bit under dressed to say the least. I was also the youngest and most "junior" position wise so it felt even more awkward. Today I decided to dress it up a little more to avoid that but without going overboard. The trends weren't the only focus but, I still made a concerted effort to include a few. I mostly wanted to keep it casual and comfy for the commute, a long bus ride in a suit doesn't work for me. But, this comfy sweater, skinny jeans, and flats are perfect for that. I think I reached a nice middle ground, no? I'm also throwing on a khaki green jacket (not pictured) to ward off any chill which gives a little military vibe.

• Top: purple sweater, ABStudio via Mom; white embellished tank top for the modesty, LOFT
• Bottom: black really skinny pants, GAP/gift from BF
• Shoes & Accessories:  leopard print flats, New York & Company; brown fused glass earrings, craft space in Laguna Beach; black spy bag, Fendi

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

Powered by GoodWidgets.com

Weekend Wear: A Multipurpose Outfit

As I mentioned yesterday, I have a million things to do today! Well, maybe not quite that many but, half a million at least and they all involve some serious travel throughout the day. I was looking for an outfit this morning that could work for all these different events and still be comfy in the car while trekking in between and walking around once I get to the city later this evening. You know: not too fancy but, not too casual... What's a girl to do? Enter jeggings, embellished tank, and comfy cardigan! This kind of outfit (or some variation) is going to become my weekend "uniform" for the fall, I just know it!

I'll tell you a secret, I am not quite ready for the cooler weather. While many bloggers (and friends IRL) are talking about how happy they are for this season change I don't know if I am really that excited. I love the warm weather and the summer (even ones as hot as this one.) I am lamenting this one coming to a close (I only made it to the beach once!) My hope is that when I start shopping my closet (hint, hint... details to come) for fall trends I'll get more excited...

• Top: pink flutter trim blouse, LOFT/birthday gift from Mom; gray flyaway cardigan, New York & Company
• Bottom: denim jeggings, LOFT/birthday gift from Mom
• Shoes & Accessories: leopard print flats, New York & Company; silver bead earrings, Tiffany & Co.; black spy bag, Fendi