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!

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!

Fashion: Official Color of 2013

 

I love when a color is named as the offical color of the New Year. What color is it this year for 2013? Emerald green. I loovveeee this color. Sadly I don't own anything in this color (yet) but what better push to find something than now?

 

1. Fitted Dress with Frill Shoulders from Zara - $59.99

2. Layering Shell from The Limited - $39.90

3. Collection Cashmere Mini-cable Sweater by J.Crew - $178

4. Sloan Pencil Skirt by Banana Republic - $ 79.50

5. Emerald Island Earrings by ModCloth - $7.99

6. 1969 Legging Skimmer Jeans by Gap - $36.99

7. Women's Chunky Sweater-Knit Gloves by Old Navy - $3.97

8. Tulle Double Breasted Cocoon Coat by Piperlime - $78.99

9. Sole Society 'Ophelia' Sandal by Nordstrom - $59.95

10. The Cambridge Satchen Company Large Classic Satchel by Urban Outfitters - $178

 

What do you think? Do you own anything emerald green? Do you plan on wearing it this year?

 

 

Crazy Beauty Trends

Have you ever looked at someone’s hair, outfit or makeup and thought “what on earth were they thinking” only to see the next day that the craziness you saw is now a trend? Me too! I love all things beauty and fashion, but there are plenty of trends I don’t dare try because quite frankly, they’re terrible. I thought it’d be fun to share some of the beauty trends that make me cringe.

Pointy nails

Why would someone ever want their nails shaped like this? It’s impractical and it doesn’t even look good! Nails shaped like this are incredibly unnatural and I’m guessing the women who sport them have probably accidentally scratched themselves more times than they can count.

Yikes!!!

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Temporary lip tattoos

I suppose I can understand the theory behind this trend, because lipstick is the one product that needs more reapplication than any other. But aside from Halloween, why would you want your lips to look like this?

Hmm...

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Too dark brows

If you’re going to fill in your brows, you should try to match the color that they are or go a shade or two lighter for a natural effect. I can forgive heavy dark brows seen on the runways because the intention is to be eye-catching and dramatic, but this is definitely not a trend you should copy.

This poor girl.

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Crazy nail art

I get it. People can do amazing art on their nails. Some of it is very cool and I can’t imagine how much skill and patience it takes to pull off, but this is --what's the word I'm looking for-- excessive, no, RIDICULOUS.

What the what....

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“Caviar” lips

Playing off the “caviar” nail trend, this is one that makes me scratch my head. Sure, it’s cool in an editorial shoot, but it’s not something that’s practical or that would even look good if you’re just heading out for the night. How the heck are you supposed to eat or drink anything?

Have fun picking up the little pieces when they fall off!

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Duck face

Okay, so this is not technically a beauty trend. But seriously though, are you guilty of making this face in pictures? If you're trying to look sexy, please avoid the urge to duck face. Just smile -- people find that much more attractive.

Say no to duck face, or get hit on by Donald.

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What else would you add to this list?

Fashion: Trending -- Printed Pants

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Lately in blogland I've seen the printed pant craze EVERYWHERE. It started in the fashion world and months ago I saw several celebs sporting the trend. I didn't know if it would catch on with the mainstream population but here it is!

 

I love a bold print more than anyone but I’m not sure how I feel about it for pants. For me, my legs, hips and thighs are correctly proportioned for my body shape but they are curvier. I don’t think adding a bold print to that area would be very flattering on my shape. However, if you’ve got some thin legs or feel comfortable accentuating that part of your body these bold prints would be great on you!

 

I haven’t tried on any printed pants yet but plan on it next time I’m out on a shopping trip. I may be eating my words once I see for myself what this craze is all about.

How do you feel about this trend? Would you rock this look?

 

 

Fall 2012 Makeup Trends

New seasons always bring new colors and trends, and this fall is no exception. You’ve heard us talk about fall color trends for nails and clothes, but what about makeup? Try out some of these makeup colors and looks to help welcome fall:

Black Cherry Lips

As we transition to fall, the bright pink lips go away and the berry tones are very in. Try out a black cherry lipstick or stain like this one:

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Smoky Brown Eyes

This sophisticated look using several shades of brown embodies fall -- and it's perfect for day or night.

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Cobalt Blue Eyeshadow and/or Liner

This might be an extreme example of cobalt blue liner, but how pretty is this color? If you're wearing more muted tones for fall, try this liner or shadow for an unexpected punch of color.

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Black Eyeshadow

You can never go wrong with black, right? This fall, try out a very muted and soft black.

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Green and Gold Eyeshadow Combo

Green is always in for fall, but pairing it with gold this season will take your look to the next level. Gold shadow will brighten up your entire makeup look.

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Pink Cheeks

As temperatures drop and cooler weather blows in, mimic the lovely pink hue cheeks get by using a soft pink blush on your cheeks. It will give you a natural-looking, healthy glow.

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What do you think of these makeup trends for fall?

Top Five Color Trends for Fall 2012

Can you believe it’s almost Labor Day? Me either. Fall is quickly approaching and before we know it, it will be time to bust out the boots, scarves and chunky sweaters.

What do you think of when it comes to fall color? I think of rich browns, forest greens and dark reds. To help get your wardrobe ready for fall, check out five trendy colors for this upcoming season that might surprise you – in a good way:

Tangerine: Remember the bright orange that was all the rage this summer? It’s sticking around for fall – how fun! Try a tangerine sweater, or a scarf for just a hint of color.

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Bright Blue: It’s not the aqua blue that’s usually in season for summer and it’s not deep blue that you might see during winter, it’s something unique and totally versatile for this fall. 

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Muted Purple: This color is perfect for so many fall items – sweaters, coats, scarves and other accessories. It’s an unexpected pop of color.

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Rose: I usually don’t think of anything pink-toned for fall, which makes the rose trend so great. Sweaters are perfect in this warm color, or you could try a pair of rose-colored jeans if you’re feeling extra daring.

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Chartreuse: Instead of sticking with the typical greens usually on trend for fall, try out a bag or scarf in this yellowy-green. 

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What do you think of these colors for fall? 

Hair: Fishtail Braid Tutorial

Fishtail braids are all the rage in this summer heat. They look so much harder to do then they really are - I promise! Follow these simple steps and with some practice you can sport this look too.

1. Brush your hair to one side and make two equal sections of hair.

2. Pull a thin strand of hair from the outside of the back section. Pull it over the top of the back section, and grasp it under the front section. Put simply: the strand of hair has gone over the back section and finishes under the front section.

3. Repeat Step 2 on the other side. Pull a skinny strand of hair from the outside of the front section, pull it over the front section, then weave it under the back section.

4 & 5. Keep alternating sides, weaving over and under, until you reach the bottom of the braid.

6. Secure with a hair tie or elastic.

7. Gently pull small sections of the braid to loosen it up for a more relaxed look.

And you're done! Told you it was easy.

Do you think you'll try this look? What are some other hairstyles you've been wanting to try for the summer?