Fashion: Tips for Bargain Shopping

I recently discovered the BEST bargain shopping location ever. Sadly, it's all the way in Arizona (for those of you who live there RUN to Last Chance). When Jay and I were visiting my mom and step-dad she took us to her new favorite place to score a major deal. I was in awe of all of the super low prices however, it wasn't easy to find things I wanted to buy. Here's the thing, when you go to a bargain store, you're usually hunting through racks of clothes and shoes and you might walk away with an item or two if you're lucky. You need to have lot of patience and time but trust me, it's well worth it! 

I usually ask myself if there is anything missing from my wardrobe or if there is anything I've been wanting to add to my collection. During this visit, I wanted some new dresses for the summer and my honeymoon so I went to that section first. I found a ton of dresses to try on (including a wedding dress!) and was excited about the possible options I had. 

Make sure to check ALL of the racks. Even the ones that say they are for a specific size. I found most of my favorite items on the wrong rack! If I didn't take the time to look, I would have never found these great items. A lot of shoppers will find something, walk away from the rack it actually belongs on and for one reason or another put it back. However, they usually put it in the wrong place -- so make sure to check all of the racks! 

It's so worth your time and energy to dig. I found four amazing dresses that cost $12.97 each! I would have never been able to buy these full price at the department store and I couldn't be happier with the ones I found. The black dress on the bottom was previously a contender as a bridesmaids dress (in coral). It was around $150 and we decided to go with different ones. I can't believe I found the exact dress in black for so cheap! And even though the wedding dress that I found would have only been $60, it didn't seem worth it to ship, get altered and cleaned to only wear a few hours during my reception. My original dress is beautiful on its own. :) 

See -- told you it was worth it! Some of my other favorite bargain stores for fashion and beauty products are TJ Maxx, Ross, Marshalls and of course outlet stores. 

Do you like bargain shopping? Do you have any other favorite stores or tips to share? Leave them in the comments! 

Swimsuit Season is Coming!

I don’t know about you guys, but I LOVE summer. When everyone is complaining about the humidity and 95 degree temperatures, I am soaking it in and enjoying every minute. The weather has been just plain ugly this spring. We’ve had two or three nice days, but other than that it’s been chilly, cloudy and rainy. 

I’m currently out of town visiting family and the trip couldn’t have come at a better time. I’ve been ready for heat and sun since last fall. I’ve been really looking forward to summer and recently bought a new bikini that I can’t wait to wear. 

My go-to sources for swimsuits have been places like Old Navy or Target—where you don’t have to spend a crazy amount of money. I’ve always liked what I purchased, but wanted to do a little upgrade. This year I decided to invest a little more in a swimsuit and purchased a bikini from Victoria’s Secret. I’ve never purchased a swimsuit from VS, but am really excited about what I got:

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There are a few reasons I like and chose this swimsuit:

• The bottom piece is extremely comfortable! It doesn’t feel revealing like some bikini bottoms do.
• The top didn’t come in small, medium or large. It was available by bra size so you’re sure to get something that fits you really well.
• With the top, I’ve got the option for it to be strapless or I can add straps that tie around my neck.
• Mix and match! This is the first time I’ve chosen a different colored top and bottom. I love the combo. There are tons of other color options on VS and they’ve got several other options for the style of the tops and bottoms. I also tried on pink/black and pink/teal as a combo.

Here’s hoping the rain stays away and I can wear my suit to the beach for the first time! Do you have your swimsuit picked out for this summer?

What to Wear to a Bridal/Baby Shower

Summer is typically known as wedding season. And that definitely rings true on our end because Amanda is getting married in June! In preparation for the big day, she’s had two bridal showers. I thought it’d be fun to share my thoughts on some cute dresses to wear to any kind of shower. 

Me, Amanda and our lovely friend Nicole

My dress: Draped Jersey Dress, The Limited, $79.90 (50% off)

I saw this dress on a mannequin and had to have it—especially when I saw it was on sale for 50% off. This dress is really comfortable and has a darling keyhole back. And, I think the color is perfect for spring. I paired this dress with blush/nude colored pumps.

Ponte Knit Sheath Dress, Express, $69.90 (30% off)

Okay, I cheated with this dress a little. I found it at 30% off and had a $25 gift card so I got it for super cheap. My favorite thing about this dress is the color. As the temperature rises (or rises and falls, then falls even more like this year!) I love breaking out clothes that are brightly colored. In addition to that, this dress is extremely comfortable. I paired this dress with cobalt blue pumps for some extra color.

Before I purchased these dresses, I tried on others at a few different stores. Here are a couple I considered:

Strapless Cotton Floral Dress, White House Black Market, $170

Chic Lilac Sheath, White House Black Market, $160

I really liked both of these dresses, but the price really held me back. I’m usually not into floral prints, but decided to give the cotton dress a try. It fit nicely and the pattern wasn’t overwhelming. The lilac dress fit like a DREAM. It seemed like it was made for my body. But, lilac isn’t usually a color I wear from head-to-toe and decided against it. In any case, these are two great possibilities to wear to a bridal shower. 

Will you be attending any bridal or baby showers this summer? What do you plan to wear? 

Fashion: 10 Affordable Spring Jackets You'll Love

Spring is finally in the air --well April fools on us in Chicago - it's only 30 degrees today -- but it was nicer out over the weekend and I was finally able to bust out two spring jackets! I have been waiting what feels like forever to wear spring jackets again and I was on cloud nine this weekend. Sadly, my winter jacket is back on today -- hopefully it warms up again soon! 

I've been keeping my eyes out for some new  jackets to add to my collection this season and fell in love with the ones below. The best news? All of them are from Forever 21 so you can get these for a steal! I have had some hit or miss luck when it comes to clothing from Forever 21, but jackets seem to always hold up very well for me. What do you think of the jackets below?

1. Forever 21 Essential Double-Breasted Jacket - $27.80

2. Forever 21 Spiked Trim Faux Leather Jacket - $39.80

3. Forever 21 Faux Leather Peplum Jacket - $37.80

4. Forever 21 Faux Leather Trim Tweed Jacket - $29.80

5. Forever 21 Denim Jacket - $29.80

6. Forever 21 Distressed Racer Jacket - $29.80

7. Forever 21 Wavy Paneled Quilted Jacket - $39.80

8. Forever 21 Scuba Peplum Jacket - $32.80

9. Forever 21 Essential Drawstring Jacket - $37.80

10. Forever 21 Lace Moto Jacket - $24.80

So what do you think of the jackets above? Any must haves? I'm LOVING numbers 3, 6 and 7! 

Have you found any cute affordable spring jackets this season? Share the links in the comments!

Accessories: Five Bags for Spring

Spring arrives THIS WEEK! So exciting! I can’t wait warmer weather and spring fashion. In order to help you get your wardrobe ready, check out my purse picks for this season:

Jolica HT065, $99

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Kate Spade Rumor Straw Bow Tote, $143

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Nine West Zipster Crossbody, $49.99

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Pistachio Green Tote Bag, $135

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Dooney & Burke Retro Leather Satchel Handbag, $298

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What purse will you be sporting this spring?

Fashion: New Spring Ballet Flats We Love

Spring is right around the corner and I can't help but dream about light jackets, shoes without socks or tights, dresses and less layers. Don't get me wrong, I love fall fashion but I'm ready to embrace the warmer weather and the trends that are soon to follow. 

I've been eying flats lately and can't wait to scoop up a pair or two soon to wear this spring. There are so many cute styles and patterns out there already,  I can't imagine what's going to be available once it's officially spring. Some of my current favorites are below: 

1. LC Lauren Conrad for Kohl's Ballet Flats - on sale $34.99

2. Gap Printed pointy flats - $49.95

3. Target Merona® Madge Ballet Flat - $19.99

4. DSW GC Shoes Classy Flat - $34.95

5. DSW Tahari Veronica Color Block Flat $59.95

6. Banana Republic Scotty ballet flat - $98

7. Urban Outfitters Kimchi Blue Fatale Peep-Toe Skimmer- $29

8. J. Crew Collection Cece Liberty floral ballet flats - $198

What do you think of these shoes? Do you have any that you're eying for this spring?

Fashion Trend: Graphic Sweaters

I've been seeing graphic sweaters everywhere lately! They are so much fun and I really like how you can make such a statement without saying anything. This look is easy to throw together and gives everyone a sprinkle of your personality. Here are some favorites of mine that I've seen around lately. I really want one of those mustache sweaters (shocking, I know) and how cute would that kiss print sweater be to wear for Valentine's Day? 

1. Forever 21 Polka Dot Sweater - $17.50

2. Forever 21 Mustache Graphic Sweater - $19.50

3. Forever 21 I Heart Mustaches Sweater - $19.80

4. Forever 21 Kiss Print Sweater - $22.80

5. LC Lauren Conrad Lurex Heart Sweater - $20.00 on sale!

6. J. Crew Take a Bow Sweater - $98.00

7. Zara Oversize Zebra Sweater - $59.90

8. Zara MOI ET TOI Sweater - $49.90

I obviously am a huge fan of this trend -- I've been wearing my LC Lauren Conrad heart sweater that Jay got me for Christmas a ton lately!  

What are some of your favorite ways to rock this trend? Do think this look will stick around through spring?

Fashion Trend: Leather Jackets

I love the look of leather jackets. They add a little edge to any outfit and I always feel like a rock star when I wear mine. I have a fake leather one from Forever 21 and it's held up for several years (shocking I know). I don't think I could splurge for a real leather jacket but there are several imitation ones out there that look and feel like the real deal. Here are some of my favorite ways I've seen this look pulled off.

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So what do you think? Do you like this look? 

I'm thinking light caramel and blush colored leather jackets are on my list this year for spring!

Wedding: Bridesmaids Dresses

 

I have 5 amazing ladies that have agreed to stand up with me on my big day. I can't thank them enough for all that they have done for me! My sister Jess is the maid of honor and my future sister-in-law Jill, and friends Lauren, Adrianne (yes, Adrianne from this blog!) and Cassandra have all agreed to be my bridesmaids.

 

I wanted them all to be comfortable with what they are wearing on my wedding day. That's not always easy when you have 5 very different personalities. After trying on some dresses at a few places we all decided that J. Crew was the best option for everyone. I left it up to them to pick out the style and fabric they wanted in the coral color. It was a lot of fun watching them all try on the dresses. I know every bride always says this, but I really hope they can wear these dresses again.

 

It ended up that they all have different dresses (how fun!) and they look so good together. Jess and Jill went with the silk chiffon fabric and Lauren, Adrianne and Cassandra chose the cotton. Each dress looks fantastic on all of them and I know we're going to be one hot bridal party ;)

 

 

 

I can't wait to see how they continue to make each look unique with different shoes, accessories, hair and makeup.

What do you think of the mismatched bridesmaid look? Would you like that if you were a bridesmaid?

 

 

Fashion: Tips for Organizing your Closet

If your like me you've got a lot of clothes and shoes with limited space. If things are not organized correctly, they take up more space than they should and you run the risk of not knowing what great items you already own. Here are some of my simple tips for organizing your closet: 

1. Buy better hangers: I used to have the cheap plastic hangers but they took up so much unnecessary space. My future mother-in-law gave Jay and I some thin felt hangers for Christmas last year and it's amazing how much more room we now have in our closets. Worth every penny. 

2. Organize your clothes by color and type: I can't say this enough. By organizing your closet by type -- tank tops, short sleeve shirts, long sleeve, sweaters, etc. -- you can easily see what you have available. I then organize each section by color so if I'm looking for a short sleeved black shirt I can find it right away. This also helped me see how many duplicates and similar items I had (oops) and lets you see what you're missing.

3. Go through your closet and drawers each season: This is a hard one for me that I need to get better at. By going through your closet and eliminating items you haven't worn in the past season you can get rid of a lot of unworn items to make room for new items you'll actually wear. Stop at each item and ask yourself "when did I last wear this?" if the answer is more than 6 months or you can't remember it's time to pitch it. 

4. Check items for stains, holes and other signs of wear: Fix items that you can to ensure continued use. If it's beyond repair it's time to toss it and replace it with a new item. It sometimes is hard to let go of your favorite sweater but think about how much better you'll look with a new one. 

5. Check items for fit: Try items you're unsure about on and ask yourself how you feel while wearing the item. Is it flattering? Does it make you feel good? If not don't let it take up unnecessary space in your closet. If you're waiting to lose some weight before you can wear the jeans that have been in the back of your closet for years it may be time to toss them and get a good pair that fit now. You want to invest in pieces that make you feel great. 

6. Make sure your clothes are facing the same way and are not inside out: This seems like a silly tip but it makes all of the difference. It can be a pain to set up your closet this way but when you're quickly searching for a shirt the last thing you want is to have it facing the wrong way or not have the right side out. It will make for quicker dressing, too! 

These are just a few tips I use to maximize the space in my closet to ensure I have a current wardrobe that I love. It not only eliminates clutter but makes picking out outfits much easier knowing everything in my closet fits great and is in good condition.

Do you have any tips for streamlining your closet? We'd love to hear them! 

Fashion: Patterned & Colored Tights

Now that it's getting colder out I've had to be more creative on how I can still wear my skirts, shorts and dresses into the fall and winter seasons. Colored and patterned tights are back again and I couldn't be more excited. My mom bought me a pair of purple ones last year that I love to wear. I also purchased a pair of black polka dot ones that are perfect with my black shorts. I feel sassy when I wear them. It's time to stock up on some more pairs for this season.

1. H&M Cable-knit tights- $9.95

2. H&M 80 Denier Tights - $5.95

3. Nordstrom 'Best Present' Tights - $15

4. Frenchi® 'Dot' Tights - $14

5. Urban Outfitters Embellished Jewel Tight - $18 or 2 for $20

6. Forever 21 20 Denier Floral Tights - $6.80

7. DKNY Pinstripe Lace Tights - $20

8. HUE Two Tone Floral Net Tights - $18

9. Pretty Polly Suspender Tights - $25

10. Kensie Crazy Crisscross Tights - $22

What do you think of this trend? Do you own any patterned or colored tights?
 

Five Great Winter Coats

Though I don’t like the cold weather, I love buying coats and accessories to help me stay warm. Here are five winter coats that I’d love to add to my collection:

Quilted Faux Leather Bomber Jacket, TheLimited.com

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Wool Cotton-Blend Pea Coat - Mango.com

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 Anne Klein Women's Pea Coat, Amazon.com

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Wool Jacket, HM.com

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Bengen Winter Short Women's Fashion Casual Hooded Down, Amazon.com

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What coats are you lusting after for winter?