Transition into Fall

Well, the weather is starting to signal that fall is near.  Its usually hot as hell this time of year but right now we are seeing the 70s which feels to me like fall.  Although I am sad to see summer go, one of the best things about the fall (besides football!) is fashion!  I just got all my September magazines this week and they are huge.  By far the best issues of the year.  I can't wait to see all the outfit inspirations in them.  But to start with, I thought I would share a great outfit for this pre-fall cool down in the weather.  I love that its all white but the shades and textures are all a little different.  The layering here is perfect for this time of year too.

Sweaters are always tough for me.  I don't like wool fabrics because they itch unless you always wear long sleeves underneath.  But I find that the good quality sweaters are always very expensive.  I really like the one I bought at the J.Crew Outlet.  It was only $20 and its J.Crew so the quality is great.  Its a great store for good sweaters at good prices.  Jessica's sweater is extra cool because of the leather elbow patches.  But those are very hard to find!  I found a really nice one from Banana Republic for $60.  Its not cream like this picture but its more of a tan.  

The white button up underneath is easy.  You can find those anywhere right now because they are perfect for fall.  I wear mine under blazers and sweaters, or alone with jeans for that classic look.  My new favorite is to do the half tuck in the front.  It takes it from preppy to cool so easily.  The Gap is a great place for basics like these.  This button down shirt is $50.  

And these khakis also from the Gap are $32 in off-white.  

I found this hat on Piperlime by Brixton Capistrano for $50.  Hats are kinda tricky to buy online.  Make sure the return policy is easy if you do buy online.  Otherwise, Aldo Accessories and Target are good places to shop for hats.  

I found a great scarf on Amazon for only $30...and its cashmere!  Its by Charter Club.  Considering that you wrap it around your neck, the softness of cashmere is perfect.  It also adds a luxurious touch to your outfit.  And you will wear this with so many other outfits.

And how perfect are these Guess pumps?  They are on Endless by Amazon for $38, and they offer free shipping and free returns so its risk free.  If you don't love these, first you are nuts!  But this site has a lot of options for cream pumps. 

One last note..I definitely do not follow the 'no white after labor day' rule.  If you wear it like this, with multiple textures and shades, you can wear it all year!

Skin Care

The last month of my life has been one filled with skin care frustrations.  I tried to switch things up and go the all out organic route.  My skin said...NO WAY!  And ever since then its been all uphill.  So after many new products and money spent, I am back to the tried and true Arbonne products I was using before.  Plus a few helpers added in.  Arbonne is very close to organic and many of the ingredients are 100% natural.  And it seems to really work the best for my skin.  But ladies, seriously, how frustrating it is to figure out skin care?  I thought I was doing the right thing by going all organic, and what do I get for that?  Not looking good that's for sure!  There are so many products out there and so much information about what works best for what skin type.  But really, its all relative to your skin.  I really just need to stay off the internet cause its nothing but trouble!  Today I went to get a facial from my lady Ivetta  and begged her to help me fix my face.  She scolded me for "experimenting" with new products.  "Skin care is what I do" she told me.  And she's right!  No more experimenting for me!  She told me that from now on I should consult her before trying something new.  Yes ma'am!!!  I highly recommend everyone get a facial lady like my Ivetta.  She has been my go to for eyebrows and facials for 4 years now and she really knows my skin.  Having a professional who knows your skin is priceless...albeit kinda expensive for the wallet.  But totally worth it in my book!

Now what I use may not be the best choice for you all, but I will share what I have used and liked the best.  I have super sensitive skin and clearly new products do not go well!  And I also have some breakout issues. My go to is Arbonne because its not made with harsh chemicals that are bad for you.  I like the FC5 Purifying Cleanser + Toner.  It really helps with oiliness.  I also like the Oil Absorbing Day Lotion SPF20.  It seems a lot of lotions clog my pores and this doesn't.  And the best shine control product ever is the Mattifying Powder.  Sue and I swear by this...especially when we go out.

Another product I really love is by SkinCeuticals.  Its called Phyto Corrective Gel.  Its a small green liquid that you apply with a dropper.  Its anti-inflammatory and antiseptic and helps calm and soothe ittitated skin.  It also helps reduce discoloration. Its like a miracle in a little bottle!  It seems a little expensive at $60 but it lasts for months.  I found it at SkinStore.com and they always have 20% off offers if you sign up for emails so you can get a good price.

I found that with all my skin issues, sometimes I have leftover discolorations that take forever to go away.  I found this peel by skyn ICELAND on that same SkinStore.com website. Its gentle enough to use everyday and really does speed up the fading process.  Its $45 but I always buy it with the 20% off.

And when things are bad, such as now, I use concealer!  It is my beauty savior.  Another makeup trick I use...really play up the eye makeup and no one will notice anything but your eyes :-)

Jeans and Booties...The Perfect Match

So, I have a new fashion obsession and girl crush.  Its on Rosie Huntington-Whiteley.  She is a british (I think these brit women really know whats up in fashion) super model and she is so stylish.  I have never seen her looking anything but amazing!  So now I have set out to make myself a clone...sadly without the accent...or the whole model thing.  But, I can start using her as fashion inspiration!  My favorite looks are always the ones with jeans.  She really found a way to make jeans sexy and simple, classic and rock, all at the same time.  Here is one example I love.

I have seen so many pictures of her in these boots that I decided to start there because that must be the key. Therefore, these are a must buy for the fall.  I found a great pair on Piperlime by Sabine Jenillo for only $40! And there are actually a lot of sizes left.  I think I am gonna buy some right now!

The other key ingredient to this look is her skinny jeans.  The most important part of this is where the jeans hit you on your ankle, especially with a pair of booties.  I would even recommend bringing the boots with you to the tailor and getting them hemmed to just above the top of the boots.  Skinny jeans are everywhere and for everyone.  They come in a variety of prices and fit all types of bodies.  I have been spoiled by a few pairs of designer jeans, but they really do fit the best, as long as it fits your budget tho.  My secret advice is to go to Nordstrom and try on a few pairs and find the best ones for you...then go on ebay and try to find them for much less.  If that makes you too nervous, try Nordstrom Rack.  They have a great selection of designer jeans for half the price.  I found these J Brand jeans on ebay this week and I am so excited!  They will go perfect with my new 'Rosie Super Model' look :-)

If designer jeans are not your thing, try Guess or Gap.  I love my skinny jeans from Guess.  They fit perfect, but they aren't skin tight so they are really comfortable.  Another option is the department stores.  I like Lord and Taylor for jeans because they carry a ton of brands, which allow you to try on different fits.  They also always have sales and coupons so you can get a really good price.  These are by Guess for $89 but with the extra 15% off right now you can get them for $75.

White tees are easy to find.  I like t-shirts from the Gap and Ann Taylor Loft.  They are usually under $20 and super soft.  This one from the Gap is perfect for only $14.95.

The belt was actually pretty hard to find at a decent price.  I found an awesome one from What Goes Around Comes Around Vintage but it was almost $100 so I kept looking.  I found this one on Overstock.com for only $30.  The other option is just getting a black leather belt without the studs.  My biggest issue with belts and accessories is matching the metals.  So if you get a gold necklace and gold aviators like Rosie, make sure the belt matches.  Or if you start with the belt and it ends up being silver, get a silver necklace and aviators.

The rest of the accessories are super easy.  I just got a great pair of aviators from Norstrom for only $10!  I also always have good luck at Marshals and TJ Maxx for sunglasses.  I think any drop necklace would work with this outfit, but make sure it is simple and not bulky.  I love chunky necklaces but it would change the whole vibe of this look.  I like Target and little resale shops for fun, random jewelry at a good price.


If you like this look, but wanted to make it more dressy, replace the plain white tee with a silky top and replace the booties with some sexy high heels (pointy toe works best with skinnies).  If you go with the dressy look, you could definitely change the jewelry for something big and chunky.  It is also perfect for transitioning into fall.  Just add a blazer or jacket and scarf to the skinnies and boots and viola like this picture of Rosie below.  Fabulous!!!

Going Out Attire

Last Saturday I had a fun night out with two very fun ladies!  We had all been in the mood for some serious dancing and fun, so we dolled ourselves up and set out for in out dancing shoes.  While we were out, I found myself observing what all the other women were wearing.  Some great...some horrible!  So I decided what better than to write a blog about it.

One thing I always notice is that each city has its own style.  The big thing around here is jeans and a cute top with some killer heels.  Its my usual go-to for going out.  New York is much more exciting with all the new trends.  And Vegas is all short skirts, sequins, and slutty.  However, while out in Royal Oak, I did notice a bit of the Vegas Slut look going on.  There were some way too tight dresses and way too short skirts.  I am all about taking a risk, but lets keep it classy ladies.

Here is a real quick 'What Not to Wear' - (we actually saw quite a few looks like this!)

While I was scrolling though some pictures, I found this one from 2008 when all my college roomies and I went to Chicago for the weekend.  The first night we went out, we took this picture.  Talk about a 'going out uniform!' We all ended up wearing black tops and jeans...but we all looked hot!

Here are some fun looks that I have found for going out!

I recently bought something similar to this shirt on ebay for the fall and I am so excited about it!  This tank is so cool and funky.  Its from Nordstrom for $58. You can pair it with some colored or patterned denim to really take the rock look up a notch (like in the photo below).  Or, you can pair it with some blue skinny jeans for a less intense look.  It would also be great for day time with skinny jeans, a blazer and motorcycle boots. Plus, who doesn't love a tiger!

Now if you are the more girly type and like to go out in dresses...try a LWD (little white dress) to switch it up from the usual LBD.  I love BCBG dresses, but they can get expensive.  Macy's has a great selection of the BCBGeneration line, which is more funky than the original BCBG line.  And you can almost always get them on sale and use a coupon for great deals.  Lord and Taylor always has these on their clearance racks too so you can score these at great prices.  I found this dress at Macy's for $53.99 right now.  It usually sells for $128!  Its from the BCBGeneration line.  Spice up the girly feel with some chunky heels for a total look!

Another really fun idea for going out is the jumpsuit.  A few years ago while out shopping, I picked one up to try on and all my girlfriends were like "uh no!"  But once I tried it on, everyone loved it!  They are so flattering...if you get the right fit.  They have fitted ones and flowy ones.  ASOS has a ton of different styles at a range of prices.  I have owned both the jersey jumpsuit and a fitted one.  And I love them both!  Its so easy for a night out, just throw it on and add some platforms and you are ready to go.  No coordinating necessary!  This one from ASOS is so cool and rocks a few trends all at once...wide leg pants and cutouts all in one jumpsuit.  The only accessory you need here is a cool pair of earrings.  And maybe a brightly colored clutch.

And it can't be a going out blog without some awesome shoes!  Here are just a few pairs...

Jessica Simpson on Piperlime for $89.  Love the sequins!

Kelsi Dagger on Piperlime for $79.  Cap toes are huge for the fall too.

Guess on Endless.com for $47.50.  I own these in brown snakeskin and LOVE them!

Happy dancing if you hit the clubs!

Slim-Cut Trousers

I was feeling pretty blah last week.  Everywhere I looked, I saw super cute outfits and I have been so boring.  I think I have a case of closet envy because I have been on a thrifty shopping freeze.  Its been great for the bank account, but sad for me when I see things I want!  So I decided that #1, this blog is going to be colorful and bright.  But also #2, I am going to make it something that can work for summer and easily transition into fall.  Therefore, saving money!  Well...after you shop first :-)

I saw an article recently for slim-cut pants vs wide leg trousers.  While I am all about wide leg pants, I was really drawn to the slim cut pants more.  This is the picture that really sucked me in...its from the Milly Spring 2012 Collection.

These exact pants were on sale at Neiman Marcus for $87...but it says no longer available now :-(  I found a similar pair, without the high waist, at J. Crew for $90.  They only come in aqua or black tho.

I also found a pair with the high waist, which is going to be big this fall, from ASOS.  They are bright blue (or black if you prefer) and only $36.45.  The other great thing about ASOS is that they also have ASOS CURVE for those who have some curves and don't think super skinny pants would look great.  They also have a petite line and a maternity line.

For the shirt, you can really wear a ton of different styles.  You can go simple and do a white button down dress shirt...roll the cuffs up and half tuck it in for a more relaxed, modern feel.  You can also do a tank top...plain like the above picture.  Or you can go with a patterned one like this one by Ark & Co. for $47.99.  I also love the tie neck on this blouse!  You can look for one that has the same color as your pants, or you can color block like this red blouse with the above blue pants!  This is great for summer...and then when it gets cooler out, add a matching red cardigan.  Or really dress it up with a blazer!

And for a look similar to the Milly runway look, try a printed blouse.  There are some great options on ebay, but you have to have some time to browse and know your size.  I love ebay but not everyone does.  I had alot of luck on ASOS too with the prints.  I love this paisley print and I think it goes with a few different color pants and is only $58.  The department stores had a few styles but most of them are over $100.  They have a ton to choose from if this it too loud for you!

I think the most important accessory here is the sunglasses.  My favorite place to shop for these is TJ Maxx and Marshalls.  They always have a ton of options.   Make sure you get some that are a little bit retro to complete the look.  I think its very cool that her bag matches the pants, but I don't think that is necessary.  And for shoes...the best shoe for skinny trousers is always the pointy toe pump.  Try to pick a color that is represented in your ensemble for a cohesive look.

Here is hoping that this week I am better inspired by my own clothes!  Girls night on Wed so that should be fun to pick out clothes for! Stay tuned...

Neon...Big or Small

Well, sadly the Fourth of July has passed, which means summer is in full swing.  And that means color should be a staple in your wardrobe by now.  And by color, I mean brights!  Enter...the neon trend!!!  The reason I love adding neon is how easy it is to do.  You can go full on with tops and pants, or subtle with a fun shoe or bag.  Here are a few of my favorites and some ideas on how to work em.

I have been wanting to get a pair of neon skinny jeans since spring and just have't spring for them yet.  But most of them are on sale right now so this may be the perfect time!  I love this picture of Jessica Alba in pink skinnies.  The vest and studded flats are the coolest way to tone down a neon color.

I found a great deal at Guess for only $58.80 right now.  They come in pink, yellow, and orange.

And here is another picture of her with the same vest and flats, but a more subtle way to wear neon.

Here is a fun, soft neon tee from Gap for $22.  The look above can be worked with any neon color combo.

Another perfect way to wear neon is bags. There are so many styles out there right now.  A big one this season is satchels.  I love the whole look here on Alessandra Ambrosio.  The look is so easy and laid back, but the bag adds just the right amount of funk.  (P.S. I love the braided hair and how it adds to the look.)

Her bag is by the Cambridge Satchel Company, found on shopbop.com for $155.  Here it is in pink neon.

I found this one on Lulu's for $41...and couldn't resist the color combo :-)  Go Blue (in neon) !

Last, but never least...neon shoes! This part was easy. And it might be the easiest way to wear neon.  White tee + skinny jeans + neon pumps = AMAZING! I love these pumps by BCBGeneration found at Nordstrom for $88.95.  The come in yellow, orange, and pink.

If you would rather go with a flat, try these sandals by DV by Dolce Vita from Piperlime. The neon pink are on sale for $44.99.

And just because of my recent fall getting off a boat...some neon boat shoes!  You can be on trend and save your legs from some injury all at the same time!  These Sperry's are on sale on Piperlime for $89.99.

Happy July everyone!!!

Maxi Skirts = Figure Flattering

I don't know about you all, but it is hot here in Michigan already.  Summer is in full swing and that means some adjustments to the wardrobe.  I get so uncomfortable in the summer if my clothes are too tight, but sundresses don't always feel like an appropriate choice.  And lets face it...mini skirts are not for everyone. Enter the maxi skirt.  I bought one a year ago from Bebe and it is one of my favorite pieces of clothing.  I have worn it with a tank top and belt, a t-shirt and long necklace, and a long sleeve silk top for colder days.  It is so versatile, even with the snakeskin print that I bought mine in.  So I thought, why don't I own more of these???  And the bonus here is that besides being fashionably versatile, it is also flattering to all shapes and sizes.  I found a couple examples online of really cool maxi skirt looks.  These are all printed skirts too!

So I went searching for the coolest maxi shirts I could find!  I am a little behind on the summer shopping, so if you can get your size, you might get it on sale too.  I found this really pretty blue print skirt from Asos for $85.85.  That might seem like a lot, but you can get year round use out of this item.  Look above at how Olivia (far right) pairs hers with a leather jacket.  Add some booties instead of sandals, viola!  Colder weather outfit!  This blue skirt can be worn with a plain white tee or tank for an easy summer outfit (like Malin has in the middle photo).  If you feel like pushing the envelope, try a colored tank like the pink in the picture.  And belts are always a welcome addition to maxi skirts!

After much searching, I found this skirt at Bloomingdales that looks a bit like my snakeskin one.  This one is by Michael Kors for $120.  Yes, snakeskin prints are not for everyone, but this one is subtle enough for most.  And I like that its a neutral color print so you don't feel quite as 'check out my new skirt' like the brighter blue print above.  You can wear this one higher, like at your real waistline, belted or not.  You can also pull it down closer to your hips and have it graze the floor for a more relaxed feel.  For a curvier frame, I would recommend the higher waist to give you that hourglass shape.  Only those straight up and down folks should try the lower option.

If you like the idea of a maxi, but can't quite get on board with the prints, try this plain black one from Nordstrom by Halogen.  It is simple, but the material is dressy enough that you can still take it from day to night, flats to heels.  And you can always try a bold colored top with it for more fun!  And black and white together is always very chic...you can never go wrong there.

Now...for one last look...the really dressed up maxi skirt!  I found this picture of Cat Deeley and had to post it!  How amazing does she look???  I know...this is not the easiest look to pull off.  But if you can find the pieces and have the guts, this is awesome!  And if you do...the red lips are a must!

I found a similar style skirt on Bluefly.com for $105 by Love Sam.

I found the perfect top on ebay...but they say there are multiple sizes available.  Either way, ebay is a great place to go for outfits like this because you can always find something unique.  Here is the top I found.

Happy Summer Shopping!!!