April 5, 2012: Impromptu Girls Night Out

Today is my Friday and I am so excited! What are my big plans for tomorrow? O, nothing just hanging out because my office is closed! I have some personal errands to run but, it’s ok because there is all the time in the world all day to take care of them. Did I mention my excitement? Yeah… The temptation to wear skinny pants and a comfy, flowy shirt was overwhelming but, I resisted. After all, I am trying to be the most professional me that I can be!

What I was most excited for was 5:00. I have been doing things after work pretty much every night this week so far and am excited to head home and take it easy! What ended up happening was something totally different but, isn't that always the way? Some of my co-workers were meeting up at a place really close to my house so I decided to join them for a bit which turned into longer... good times! Do you have any fun plans for this holiday weekend?

• Top: aqua dolman sleeve top, Old Navy with a tank top underneath for the modesty; black safari jacket, LOFT (same jacket different color here, here, here, here, here, here, here, here and here )
• Bottom: gray pants, New York & Company
• Shoes & Accessories: black pointy toe flats, Audrey Brooke via DSW; gray shell earrings, gift from BF’s parents; silver watch, Fossil; Neverfull GM, Louis Vuitton/gift from BF

Items from this outfit are previously seen and remixed 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? 

FBFF: Spring Trends

 What are the top 5 Spring trends that you are looking forward to seeing/sporting this season?

1. Wide Leg Pants - I have learned to appreciate skinny pants and jeggings as much as the next girl but, my first love is a wide leg pant! This is definitely the trend that I am most excited for.
2. Animal Print - I feel like animal prints are one of the spot on trends every other season which in my mind makes them more classic than anything else.
3. Longer Skirts - I wasn't sure that maxi dresses would work for me but, I have found ways to make that happen and they are so comfortable and easy I don't know why I ever questioned it.
4. Bright Colors - This is one trend that I am more excited to see other people wear although, I'm sure I could rock the coral color that everyone is loving!
5. Stripes - I feel the same way about stripes that I do about animal prints, you hear about them every other season especially with all the nautical stuff that was going on last spring and before that... classic!

I think it might be time for another "You've Got This" Week... What spring trend are you most excited about?

February 15/16 2011: What's Black and White and Red All Over?

The past two days have been a whirlwind! Acclimating to this new job and lengthier commute while incorporating the things that I would normally have on my schedule is definitely taking some getting used to. And based on my clean laundry situation it has been really difficult not to fall into the "city uniform" situation each day so far. It's something that I am definitely aware of so, I will try not to do so for the rest of the week, I need some color in my life...

• Top: white button down shirt, New York & Company; gray jewel drapey top, LOFT; black pinstripe blazer, Calvin Klein via SYMS 
• Bottom: black really skinny pants, GAP
• Shoes & Accessories: red patent flat American Eagle, Payless; silver and garnet earrings made by an old co-worker; silver bag, L.A.M.B via Loehmanns 

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

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• Top: black and white sweater shirt combo, August Silk via Mom's closet purge 
• Bottom: gray pants, New York and Company
• Shoes & Accessories: red patent flat American Eagle, Payless; leopard headband, Target; floral wire earrings, MOMA/gift from an old friend; silver bag, L.A.M.B via Loehmanns

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

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Don't forget to enter the Shopbop Giveaway!

"You've Got This!" Week - Fall 2010

I have a confession... I have been SUPER tempted to buy things for fall. I know, it's the complete opposite of what I should be doing given my personal style challenge but, nevertheless I have been making a mental shopping list (ivory lace shirt anyone?) and popping into a few favorite stores to look for some new "must have" trendy items on the cheap. That is, until I realized that I already have so many of these things in my closet already and it would be a shame for me not to utilize them! Enter, "You've Got This!" Week - Fall 2010!!

We've been here before but, I'll go over it again. Basically, the theme of this coming week for anyone who wants to join me is to form trendy outfits with things you already have in your closet. No buying anything new! I a little nervous about this one because although it was getting cool things are starting to warm up again. I have this awesome camel sweater that will not work at all in 80° weather but, I hope am sure I'll figure it out. It just seemed so apropos to announce this challenge on the first day of autumn tepid temps or not but, I digress... If you are interested in joining me please leave a comment with your name and a link to your blog, I will compile a list of all participants for the first post on Monday, September 27, 2010. Also, please grab the banner and link back to 260 Days, No Repeats,

Here are some Fall 2010 trends we can be inspired by:

• leather (or faux) jackets
• faux (or real) fur 
• animal prints
• camel (as the new neutral)
• military chic
• lace
• jewel tones
• longer skirts
• capes/ponchos
• chunky knits
• pants suits
• menswear inspired
• minimalism
• layers
• skinny pants/jeans
• pearls

September 16, 2010: Stripes and Stripes

In this impromptu pattern mixing theme week I have tried polka dots, stripes, florals, and plaid. I think it's been going well! Each day I get a little more comfortable putting together outfits that I would normally consider out of that zone. You know... the one of comfort? Anyway, one thing that I have realized (and maybe I'm the last one) is that stripes are the universal pattern mixer, they go with EVERYTHING!! Originally, I was thinking of pairing this navy and white shirt with a polka dot skirt but, it's another early day and these pants are super comfy. Which left me with a new connundrum: what pattern to mix with this top? How about more stripes? I think it works perfectly, don't you?

• Top: navy and white striped hoodie, GAP outlet; navy tank top with silver stripes (for the modesty), GAP
• Bottom: black really skinny pants, GAP/gift from BF
• Shoes & Accessories: silver cut-out flats, Merona for Target (similar and on sale here); my abuela's vintage silver hoop earrings; yellow alley bag

Items from this outfit are previously seen and remixed here:

Night Out: The High Life

I'm, not sure what other people do when they become (f)unemployed but, I had a massage and a delicious steak dinner courtesy of BF. While that is not necessarily the most practical thing, I didn't really have a choice and I wasn't going to complain about it. I highly recommend taking moments for yourself when you find yourself in similar situations or just in general. Perhaps if I had been more adamant about taking time for myself at work I would have seen that the job wasn't a great fit sooner. Similarly, taking time now is helping me stay focused on what it is I think my strengths are and what I am interested in focusing on in my next position. How do you treat yourself on a regular basis?

• Top: yellow ruffle collar shirt, LOFT; black and white pinstripe blazer, Calvin Klein via SYMS (part of this suit)
• Bottom: gray really skinny pants, GAP
• Shoes & Accessories: black ballet flats, Mossimo via Target; silver bead earrings, Tiffany & Co.; Glitz Knot Ring, courtesy of Amy O Jewelry; violet Clea Clutch, Katherine Kwei/won at Blogger's Night Out (not pictured)

February 15, 2012: Escape From The Office

For the first time in a long time I went to a job fair! In my new company there was not an established college recruitment program that is, until I came... Now it is growing and there might be more job fairs in my future, we shall see. I would have been happy to schlep to work yesterday in skinny pants a comfy top but, that is not appropriate attire to meet and greet potential employees so, I got it together.

I'm glad that I did because as I was meeting students their ensembles were consistently well dressed; Like full suit, clean shaven (for boys), natural makeup (for girls, fresh mani (for all)... it was very impressive! I would have felt so out of place if I, as an employer, were not equally dressed to impress.

• Top: yellow ruffle collar shirt, LOFT; black pinstripe blazer, Calvin Klein via SYMS (part of this suit)
• Bottom: black pencil skirt (with pockets), Old Navy
• Shoes & Accessories: black pumps, Nine West;  pearl earrings, birthday gift from Mom via Macy's; Neverfull GM, Louis Vuitton/gift from BF 

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

Don't forget to enter the giveaway for a Shopbop giftcard!! 

December 7, 2011: Do Nothing Day

In the grand scheme of December this past Wednesday was really low key and I was feeling it from the moment I woke up... I have lots of things on my social calendar but, that night was spent hanging out at home after work (the daily routine) and getting a jump start on Christmas cards. Exciting I know!

• Top: yellow ruffle collar blouse, LOFT; brown houndstooth jacket, LOFT
• Bottom: gray really skinny pants, GAP 
• Shoes & Accessories: brown/black snake embossed ballet flats, Xhiliration for Target; blue gemstone drop earrings, V'ta Jewelry; dusty mauve butterfly tote, GAP

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

Don't forget to enter the $100 Shopbop Gift Card Giveaway!

September 8/9, 2011: KO'd

Sorry for the blip in posting. I have actually been slightly sick since Monday (fooled you didn't I?) and burning that candle at both ends while experiencing persistent symptoms (fever, sore throat, ridic congestion) was not a good idea. I completely crashed Thursday night when I got home in the early evening. Yes, that's right I missed all the FNO events... it's ok, I will survive. Fighting throngs of people for free manis or hair styling just didn't seem like as much fun as sleeping.

Thankfully the R&R gave me enough strength to power through yesterday and work plus the fun stuff in the evening. I got to go to a fun event last night thanks to an invite Katy from Modly Chic (thanks!) and after that I attended Blogger's Night Out (so much fun!) I will put a post up about all my Fashion Week shenanigans once I have wrapped them all up; No, I'm not finished but, let's talk what I wore.

September 8, 2011:

• Top: olive and pumpkin striped tee, Mossimo for Target; khaki safari jacket, LOFT (same jacket different color here, here, here, here, and here)
• Bottom: gray slacks, New York & Company
• Shoes & Accessories: black sneaker/shoes Rocket Dog; my abuela's vintage silver hoop earrings; gray and black Ashley shoulder bag, Pietro Alessandro

September 9, 2011:

• Top: yellow floral patterned sweater, Dana Buchman for Kohl's
• Bottom: black really skinny pants, GAP
• Shoes & Accessories: turquoise peep toe flats, Xhiliration via Target; silver and gold teardrop earrings, V'ta Jewelry; silver knotted necklace, gift from my dear friend; gray and black Ashley shoulder bag, Pietro Alessandro

August 27, 2011: State of Anticipation

So first it was an earthquake and now it's a hurricane! What's next, Earth? When I was getting ready in the morning I was very focused on taking advantage of the second to last summer Friday (meaning we get out early) that I have left and wearing something that was a testament to the quickly ending summer season and less to the potential "impending doom" that is on the way hence, white linen...

The way the the city (both government and occupants) have been talking about Irene I was mostly concerned about getting home before the "storm of the century" hit. I am planning on camping out in my apartment with good DVR and a small stack of September Issues. Are you going to have to deal with Hurricane Irene? What are you doing to weather the storm?

• Top: white short sleeve sweater, LOFT (same shirt different color here and here); white linen blazer, Bitten via Steve & Barry's
• Bottom: black really skinny pants, GAP
• Shoes & Accessories: silver cutout flats, Corso Como via DSW; pink rhodochrosite and mother of pearl necklace, Gem Cove/birthday gift from Mom; pink rhodochrosite and mother of pearl earrings,  Gem Cove/birthday gift from Mom; gray and black purse, Pietro Alessandro   

Here is my Stella & Dot pick:

Carnival Necklace

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

May 4, 2011: One Point For The Weatherman

Let me start of by saying, please ignore my bad hair day. You would think it was the rain but, it wasn't, my blow dryer and I had a disagreement we're not speaking at the moment but, I digress...

Yesterday I listened to the weather forecast and they got it right so I'm glad that I did. It started pouring while I was on my way to the train station. I even remembered my umbrella, GO ME! Ok, so maybe ballet flats weren't the most practical shoe but, I didn't feel like tucking my skinnies into boots! It isn't winter after all...

• Top: purple and white polka dot shirt, Old Navy (same shirt different color here and here); blue tweed blazer, K Studio via Unique Thrift Store (same with this dress)
• Bottom: black really skinny pants, GAP
• Shoes & Accessories: black ballet flats, Xhiliration for Target; black reversible headband, Mandees; pearl earrings, birthday gift from Mom via Macy's; gray and black purse, Pietro Alessandro (not pictured)

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

Don't forget to enter the giveaway for a pair of Tiffany style silver earrings like mine!

Giveaway: Silver Bead Earrings

Having completed one year with no repeats I want to celebrate with you! I thought there could be no better way than gifting you with one of my most utilized wardrobe items. I'm sure if you are a regular reader you have a few ideas of what it could be. Don't worry, I won't send you a pair of skinny pants. That's right the title gave it away... I am going to send you a pair of 10mm wide silver bead earrings like the ones I wear all the time from Tiffany's. I couldn't afford the real deal but, these should be just as nice even thought the picture is a little wonky...

This giveaway will be until May 15, 2011 and is open to ALL readers in the USA! 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 your favorite thing about 260 Days, No Repeats is. 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.
• 2 bonus entry - Follow me on weardrobe. Leave another comment with your username.
• 2 bonus entry - Follow me on Chictopia. Leave another comment letting me know you did. 
• 2 bonus entry - Follow me on Chicisimo. Leave another comment letting me know you did.
• 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.

February 4, 2011: Support The Cause

As I mentioned in my FBFF post I will be taking part in raising awareness about heart disease this month by joining these lovely ladies in wearing red on Fridays in February. Heart disease is the number one killer of women in the United States. It is also a leading cause of disability among women so we need to be aware of it and stay healthy! I'm talking to you hips... 

I have a confession to make. I didn't get to my reservation on Wednesday... BF is having some dental stuff done that is interfering with eating but, we are going tonight! I got Restaurant Week reservations at a nice steakhouse in midtown (hence no jeans) and I would like to take the opportunity to celebrate some of the good things that have been happening. 

• Top: gray turtleneck sweater, GAP
• Bottom: black really skinny pants, GAP
• Shoes & Acessories: red patent flat American Eagle, Payless;  silver bead earrings, Tiffany & Co.; black Spy Bag, Fendi

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

Don't forget to enter the giveaway! 

January 25, 2011: Everybody, Everywhere Loves Stripes

Breton Stripes to be more specific! Here's a little history on that if you are unfamiliar. And here's a little history on stripes and myself: I love stripes but, was always told that more voluptuous ladies (like myself) should avoid them like the plague, "They will make you look broader, more masculine, wider, fatter, etc..." I get it but, I still love them. Lesson over...

If you are nervous about those well known pitfalls a small, thin stripe works better than a bold, wide one. Also adding accessories, like a chunky necklace or fun scarf, can break up the line that the stripes create. Lastly they don't always have to be black or navy. You could wear a brighter color (yellow, red, etc.) and since the contrast is not as stark the horizontal line is less noticeable. How do you like to wear your stripes?

• Top: black and white striped long sleeved t-shirt, Proenza Schouler for Target
• Bottom: gray really skinny pants, GAP
• Shoes & Accessories: black Ringo Star snow boot, courtesy of Cougar; black and silver scarf, Old Navy/gift from BF's family; silver coin pearl necklace, V'ta; silver bead earrings, Tiffany & Co.; silver bag, L.A.M.B via Loehmanns
  

 

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

 

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:

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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:

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September 21, 2010: Getting Back To It

Mondays are the worst and this Tuesday isn't feeling much better! I'll admit it: I am so burnt out from work (and life in general) that I am going to go insane if I don't get a vacation (hence some down time yesterday)! Thankfully BF and I will be going away in less than three weeks!! Part of me thinks that sounds a million years away but, when I check back into reality I know I have alot of things to get done in that short while. Ominous much? Perhaps...

Today I was feeling like wearing PJ's to work so I picked the next best thing: skinnies and an oversized sweater. I'm telling you, this picture does not do the sweater justice. It looks so much better in person AKA like a slouchy sweater not a potato sack... The outfit also works for the Young Professional's Committee (YPC) meeting I have to go to after work in the city. Speaking of work...

• Top: gray jewel drapey top, LOFT (now on sale)/birthday gift from mom
• Bottom: black really skinny pants, GAP/gift from BF
• Shoes & Accessories: silver cut-out flats, Merona for Target (similar and on sale here); silver bead earrings, Tiffany & Co.; purple tote bag, Coach outlet

Items from this outfit are previously seen here and here:

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Night Out: Fashion's Night Out

This past Friday was Fashion's Night Out, as I'm sure you know, and there were so many options for events to attend/places to shop! Did you attend any of the festivities? I opted to avoid the sheer insanity of the Manhattan events and instead attended Re/Dress NYC's Count My Curves Event in Brooklyn! If you didn't know, Re/Dress is is a premiere vintage & resale clothing boutique specializing in sizes 14+ (vintage: 10+). It’s also a buy/sell/trade establishment allowing women to sell clothing for cash or store credit, which is an environmental and recession friendly way to refresh a wardrobe.

I thought of wearing an outfit in the morning that might transition well from day to evening but, because everything has been so hectic at work I figured a clean slate for the night was in order! There's no fun to be had when you are feeling grimy or reminded of the stresses of the day...

• Top: silver color block tank top, Simply Vera by Vera Wang via Kohl's; gray flyaway cardigan, New York and Company
• Bottom: black really skinny pants, GAP/gift from BF
• Shoes and Accessories: black pumps, Candies via Kohl's; my abuela's vintage silver hoop earrings; silver sequins embellished clutch, French Connection UK

Here are some more pictures of the evening and the goody bag swag! Please excuse the crappy quality they were taken with my Droid:

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Re/Dress was offering 10% off your purchase when you filled out a card petitioning some select big name designers to start making clothing for the average woman so I couldn't help but, take advantage and pick something out... The clothing selection was immense but, I ended up with this adorable pair of teal flats originally from ALDO. It was the color that initally attracted me to them but, the comfort that made me pick them up! It's like walking on clouds... I found the same shoes in black for more than 3x what I paid so I'm feeling pretty good about that!