The Leather Watch

Currently craving: brown leather watches. They offer a classic, polished, more casual look. Here are my picks!

1, 2, 3, 4

I think I'm between 1 & 3, however I'd want to try them on. What are your thoughts? Have you been eyeing leather watches?

Mint!

Emerald may be the color of the year, but mint is emerald's baby sister and she is everywhere! I love it!

1. Honeycomb knit crew sweater - $25.00
2. Small square stud earring - $38.00
3. Essential short-sleeve u-neck tee - $15.00
4. Classic leather ballet flat - $125.00
5. Legacy hobo - $298.00
6. Enamel bangle - $22.00
7. Double v-neck button sleeve tee - $24.90
8. Essie mint candy apple - $4.79
9. Tulips-and-dots gauze scarf - $12.94
10. Rockstar pop-color cords - $12.97
11. Clean leather belt - $24.95

We had a really relaxing weekend here! We had freezing rain all day on Sunday so we ran out to the store before it hit to stock up on food and redbox! We watched Pitch Perfect and Dark Knight Rises! I really enjoyed both! Hope you had a great weekend!

3 Holiday Outfits

The holidays are upon us (Happy Hanukkah!) and Christmas is right around the corner, which means it's time to plan the perfect holiday party outfit!

To me, nothing says the holidays like lace, sequins and shiny fabrics! Today I've styled three outfits, perfect for that holiday get together - or just a fancy night in with the family! Who says you can't wear sequins and play a mean round of Catch Phrase? :)

earrings, nail polish, ring, dress, clutch, shoes

skirt, necklace, clutch, top, shoes, earrings

earrings, stockings, clutch, bracelet 1 & 2, shoes, dress

Hope your holiday season is off to a great start!

2013 Color of the Year: Emerald

A few days ago, Pantone announced the 2013 color of the year: Emerald! Not only is this a beautiful color, more universally flattering than 2012's Tangerine Tango, but it's my birth stone!! I'm pumped. Here's to emerald!

1. Emerald Cushion Cut Studs - $40 - 25% off today only with code HOLIDAY25

2. OPI Jade is the New Black - $5.35

3. Suzanne Cocktail Ring - $39

4. Driving Moccasins - $49.95

5. Cashmere Tippi Sweater - $168

6. Perfect Shirt Mini-Gingham - $49.99

7. Packable Tour - $135

8. Emerald Pashmina - $54

9. Legacy Leather Penny Shoulder Purse - $198

10. Always Skinny Cords - $69.95

jcp

I went to the mall yesterday to try and finish up my Christmas shopping. I stopped in jcp (ya know, the revamped JC Penny) and was actually very impressed by the remodeling and changes that have happened! I love the new way it is organized  -much less claustrophobic feeling! These tops caught my eye.

1. Cable Cardigan - $40 - the only top I tried on! Feels and looks great!
2. Intarsia Sweater - $35 -Best buy! Great looking J Crew-esque sweater!
3. Button Front Denim Shirt - $40
4. Pattern Pullover Sweater - $22
5. Colorblock Sleeve Sweater - $45
6. Cashmere Pullover Sweater - $60 - so soft and a great price for cashmere!
7. Oversized Sweater - $35
8. Dolman Sleeve Long Tee - $22

Can you tell that I'm loving slouchy sweaters right now? I'm so tall that I haven't been able to find the right sweater that is long enough to cover my butt so I can wear it with leggings and boots, but I think 7 & 8 might work! I also perused their accessories.

1. Round Stone Necklace - $16

2. Black & Goldtone Chandelier Earrings - $20

3. Fashion Necklace - $18

4. Oversized Solid Twill Fringe Scarf - $10 - makes a perfect gift!

5. Green Stone Necklace - $28

6. Retroactive Tote - $30 - this has a Coach inspired feel to me.

7. Sabrina Leather Ballet Flat - $37

8. Tablet Case - $12

Have you been to jcp lately? What were your thoughts?

Gifts under $25

Happy December! We started decorating for the holidays last week and today during half time of the football game (Roll Tide!) we are going to decorate our tree! It's officially Christmas time!!

Here are a few things I'm loving that would make perfect stocking stuffers or small gift for a friend. All are under $25!

1. Bliss Hand Cream - $18.00 

2. Gold Polka Dot PJs - $24.99

3. Black and Crystal Bangle - $20.00

4. Orly Luxe Nail Polish - $5.38 - Recently picked this up - it's a great gold!

5. OPI Skyfall Nail Polish - $8.00

6. Slipper Socks - $15.00 - an updated version on my favorite!

7. Minted Rose Lip Balm - $7.00 - This has been on my wish list for awhile!!

8. Personalized Chevron Note Cards - $10.00

9. Tartan Scarf - $14.99 - What a great price for such a classic piece!

Amazing Ily Couture Offer!!

Confession. I was basically over the bubble statement necklaces that have been everywhere because for one, they are everywhere and two, they cost $50 (or $150 @ J Crew!)!! Not gonna happen.

That is UNTIL I check my email this morning and see that MMandLShow uploaded a new video offering these Ily Couture necklaces for $15!! Shut the front door. No really! This is crazy!!

You have to like Michelle's page on facebook and enter the offer code and voila! Check out the video for more details.

So yeah. Maybe you're not completely over these either? It's just too good of an offer not to share! Good luck deciding on a color! So many options!!

P.S. If you haven't been watching MMandL yet, you need to! Not only are they hilarious but they offer great beauty tips!

In other news my husband and I bought a car this weekend!! I'm so relieved to not have to pay more money to the rental car company!! Today I work 10am-9pm. It could quite possibly be killer, but they needed staff to cover some appointments so I volunteered to go in early... At least I get to leave early on Friday which is perfect because my parents come to visit Friday!!! YAY! Have a great Tuesday y'all!

Fall 2012 wish list

The humidity here in Iowa has calmed down a little bit  so it doesn't feel as awful! Even though we are still in the middle of summer, it's typically around this time that I start craving some fall weather and fashion! Here are a few things I'm obsessing over right now.

1. Leopard print infinity scarf - $14.94

2. Twisted Silver Karma necklace - $50

3. Terry arch logo sweatshirt - $44.95 - I'm usually not attracted to the Gap logo sweatshirts but this one caught my eye!

4. Fossil 'Carson' leather flap crossbody - $99.99

5. Frye 'Carson Lug' Boot - $398

6. Metallic sage leather bangles - $23

7. Relic Gia rose gold tone and silver watch - $90

8. Monogram pendant - medium - $105

Are you ready for fall? What is on your wish list? Share below in the comments!

More Scarves

If you saw my post on Sunday, you know I'm pining for spring scarves. Here are some other beauties I've found!

1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11

It occurred to me that I created a similar post last year - flower scarves! What can I say - I love scarves! And spring!! Have a great day!!

Outfit inspiration: Spring Scarves

My current spring craving is soft, flowy scarves! I have some pashmina type scarves from travelling abroad but I don't have many light spring weight scarves. I'm in love!

jeans, sweatshirt, shoes, earrings, scarf

earrings, shoes, top, scarf, skirt

dress, bag, earrings, scarf, shoes

What's on your spring wish list?

Stella and Dot Spring 2012

Happy Valentine's day!!

I'm a lucky girl, and so thankful my Valentine is not in Iraq this year! Yay for spending holidays together- even if it is a "Hallmark Holiday"!! He's cooking dinner for me too!! :-D

On another note, I'm in love with the Spring 2012 collection @ Stella & Dot! Thanks to shopfreak for pointing out these fab green earrings! Here are a few of my favs!

1. Serenity Stone Drops - $49 - on my wish list!!
2. Serenity Necklace - $198 - recently seen on the next Bachelorette, Emily Maynard
3. La Coco Rope Necklace - $59 - pictured with this brooch - I really like this look too!
4. Pippa Necklace - $69
5. Serenity Small Stone Drops - $34
6. Alexandria Necklace - $89

Are you familiar with Stella & Dot? What do you think of their spring line?

Aqua Pencil Skirt

My sweet mother in law got me this skirt for Christmas! I wore it to the annual family new year's day party but haven't had a chance to wear it again. Here are 3 ways I would like to wear it!

blouse, bag, earrings, scarf, shoes, belt, skirt

cardigan, earrings, top, shoes, belt, skirt

earrings, belt, clutch, top, shoes, skirt

Currently Loving & Wanting

Hello!! I have a 4 day weekend and I couldn't be happier! I've been working extra hours so I was able to flex off on Friday! I've been so exhausted I seriously have been going to bed between 8-9:00 at night! Pathetic!

This weekend has been great and lazy! We saw The Girl With The Dragon Tattoo on Friday! After reading all 3 books I was super eager to see the movie! I honestly think if I hadn't read the book I would have been confused! Did you see the movie? What were your thoughts? 

I've been meaning to share a few things I'm loving and wanting right now! Hope you're having a great weekend!

1. Sugar Passion Lip Treatment

2. Mossimo Wide Neck Sweatshirt

3. Chandelier Earrings- currently sold out online in the US

4. Tree Jewelry Stand

5. Monsoon Striped Bangles

6. OPI Serving Up Sparkle

7. OPI Senorita Rose-Alita

Winter Shimmer

Happy belated Thanksgiving!!

It has been such a great long weekend - despite being sick and getting my husband sick. I think we're on the mend and are going to put up a few Christmas decorations - maybe even the tree if we get real inspired. DayQuil will make you do crazy things!

This winter it's hard to resist the sparkle! Shimmer! Metallic! Yum!

1. Pink pearlized bangle set - $29.50
2. Sequin front tank - $39.90
3. Knit opera gloves - $29.50
4. Metallic drape front shell - $54.50
5. Large pave stud earrings - $29.50
6. OPI I only drink champagne - $4.40
7. Chelsea metallic cardigan - $15.00

What's on the top of your wish list?

Gift Guide: Accessories

OK I know it's still November.. and in our house we can't start celebrating until AFTER Thanksgiving and AFTER my husband's birthday. However, the rest of the world and retailers seem to think differently (husband found the Christmas station on the radio. Yikes). Really though there's no harm in getting a jump start on shopping so once I can celebrate the holiday, shopping is taken care of - or at least somewhat in order!!

1. Rustic Plaid Scarf - $39.50 - just so happens to go with my new teals cords... ;)
2. Ribbed Slipper Sock - $9.50 - these are the most wonderful socks - ever. Promise.
3. Hearthstone Glittens - $28
4. Sateen Slipper - $25
5. Fair Isle Gloves - $29.50 - hard to see but these gloves have a slight sparkle!
6. OPI Crown Me Already - $4.50 - glitter, glitter, sparkle, sparkle
7. Mixed Stitch Infinity Loop Scarf - $34.50

Make a Statement

I got this necklace awhile ago and have been itching to find an outfit to wear it with, but to be honest I've struggled a little bit! I don't own any bold statement necklaces (at least not like this!) so I was a bit intimated, but for the price (yay for Mimi's! I actually found it through Pinterest, but Mimi's had it cheaper!) knew I had to have it! I decided to keep the rest of my accessories minimal so it wasn't so overpowering! I got a few compliments at work, so hopefully I pulled it off!? 

The details - cardigan: Express a few years ago, dress: Gap more than a few years ago, shoes: Toms, belt: Limited, necklace: Mimi's

Say to hello to a different part of my apartment! I'm so sick of my little entry way background! The lighting isn't as wonderful here, but I had to switch it up! Fortunately husband will be home soon (YAY!) and I won't have to rely on my tripod pile (one of these days I will take a picture of how I take my own pictures!).

Social work note: I had the realization that I would have been unable to wear this necklace when I worked on the acute psychiatric unit - hello chocking hazard! Not that I was ever in one of those situations during my short 4-5 month internship (thank goodness!) but it would have been against the rules for sure!

Shirt: Khols, Belt: Banana Rep. Outlet, Skirt: Ecuador, Leggings: Old Navy, Shoes: Target

Claire's turn!  I chose to wear an awesome bracelet (see close up version below) I got from Portland, OR.  The bracelet is made of recycled leather materials.  The center is a recycled button.  The woman that made them even sized mine to my itty bitty wrist!   I found it at the Portland Saturday Market is a fun outdoor market.  If you are ever in Portland, go!  Has anyone ever been there before?  I was there for a social work conference last October and the market was a nice break.

After surveying my jewelry I came to the conclusion that I love dainty jewelry, like my small silver locket.  I realized that I have NO statement necklaces.  Sad right?  That might need to change. It's nice to have something different for a change.  I just never know what to buy when it comes to those pieces.  Any suggestions? My colleague wore this chic black dress today and a great silver and pearl statement necklace.  I told her about the challenge and that she has the perfect outfit for today.  She loved hearing that :)

I reworked this outfit since the last time I wore it.  Wore a red shirt out, added a belt and some leggings.  Can you tell it's pretty laid back at our office?  So laid back there is no dress code other than no jeans (except for "Jeans Day" once a month).  I have had a client in serious crisis the last few days and decided to be comfortable since I have been at my desk taking calls from the hospital, social workers, caregivers, and multiple family members ALLLL day.  The client seems somewhat stable now.  I'm praying it stays that way through the holiday weekend.

Recycled Leather Bracelet from Portland Market

In completely unrelated, though exciting news...I just found out that I have been chosen as a board member of the Social Work Society Alumni Board of my alma mater!  I was shocked when I found out.  I'm so excited to have this experience, but have never served on a board before.  Any tips?

Have a great evening, y'all :)

The Gold Standard

Good morning blog world! I woke up and immediately turned on the news to see what's going on with Irene. I hope all the coverage has encouraged people to take proper precautions! Be safe!!!

OK onto a happier, less heavy topic!

Source

You've probably seen a lot of hype about the Michael Kors Fall 2011 line. I'm seeing images all over Pinterest, and I'm in love, especially with this beauty (are you reading this husband?! *wink wink*):

Source

Michael Kors is such a fashion icon that if you haven't seen this stuff, you will! Here are a couple inspired by / look for less items!

1. Vince Camuto Medium Chain Link Bracelet - $45

2. Forever 21 Anchor Chain Bracelet - $10.80

3. J Crew Mini Link Bracelet - $58

4. Express Status Link Bracelet - $24.90

5. Dana Buchman Gold Hammered Square Bracelet -$18.20

6. Stella & Dot Vintage Link Bracelet - $62

7. Kenneth Cole Toggle Bracelet - $28

8. J Crew Classic Jenna Bracelet - $88

Are you drooling? :)

Vibrant Flame

The other day I shared my love for J Crew's fall line. I picked up this shirt on sale, and love the color: Vibrant Flame. It's delicious, bright, and perfect for right now, work, and fall!

As part of Work It Wednesday, I'm showing you three ways I plan to style this top!

Late summer: clutch, earrings, shoes, jeans

Work wear: purse, earrings, skirt, belt, shoes

Fabulous fall: jacket, shoes, clutch, jeans

I'm really loving the animal print flats and tan clutch!! What do you think?

Clutch

As I was preparing for this post, finding all sorts of fabulous clutches, the phrase "That's so clutch!" kept popping into my mind. Was this in a movie (I'm pretty sure I'm thinking "Fetch" -name that movie!!)? or was it a for real expression? Do you know anybody that still uses it? Hmm.

Anywho! I've seen a lot of images from fellow bloggers and on Pinterest of wonderful clutches and had to compile an assortment of Fall clutches!

Source

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Beautiful, no? I especially love how the above clutches scrunch and aren't so structured!

1. Clare Vivier Flat Clutch - $139 - 12 different colors!

2. Clare Vivier Foldover Clutch - $149 - 20 different colors!

3. Poketo Upcycled Leather Clutch - $48

4. American Apparel Carry-All Pouch - $50 - 19 colors!

5. Hobo International Effe - $70.80

6. Hobo International Rachel - $118 actually a wallet, but multi purpose!

What do you think? Do you only buy bags with handles?

P.S. This is our 100th post! Yippee! 

Urge to Shop: Accessories

Great accessories for Fall!

1. Delicate Demeanor Necklace - $24.00
2. Chandelier Earrings - $18.00
3. Plaid Infinity Scarf - $16.99
4. Urban Expressions Flap Clutch - $34.95
5. 3 Pack Belts - $12.95
6. Steve Madden 'Koool' Flat - $69.95
7. Honk If You Love OPI - $5.95