Lululemon

This past week lululemon has received quite a bit of buzz. I'm new to lululemon but absolutely love the few pieces I have. I never really saw the point in investing in workout clothes, but I can really notice the difference and think it's worth saving for, especially the pants! I get so tired of having to pull my yoga pants up! That's not a problem with lululemon pants - they stay in place! Amazing! I'm loving the colors they have right now.. here are my picks in fresh teal & pop orange!

1. Flow and Go Tank II (front)

2. Cool Racerback

3. Free to Be Bra

4. Flow and Go Tank II (back)

5. Forme Jacket

6. Embody Crop

The Portofino Shirt

Currently craving: The Portofino Shirt

This shirt comes in a variety of colors and styles - color block, studded, and even polka dots!

Professional for work, and pretty enough for date night!

And today only you can take $25 off your $75 purchase with code 1110.

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!

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!

Wrap Sweaters for Fall

Ever since I saw Emily Maynard in this sweater posted by Possessionista (first sweater on the left) it's been in the back of my mind. It just seems easy to wear and cozy! Two of my favorites! These are some similar styles.

1. 2. 3. 4. 5.

I especially love the fourth one from Urban Outfitters! Kinda goes along with the Navajo trend. What are your thoughts?

Feeling Fall

Happy Friday and happy belated October! I can't believe it is already October!

I have to work this Saturday at our residential facility so I have today off! I've been thinking about doing a fall wishes blog post for awhile now, so it's finally time!!

1. Tunic Sweater - $24.99 - I have this and love it! So cozy and easy to wear!
2. Cable Sweater - $39.99
3. Fur-Trim Puffer Vest - $79.95
4. V-Neck Sweater - $24.94
5. Bailey Button - $165
6. Striped Turtleneck - $22.95
7. Frienzzi Leather Boot - $139 - I'm not in the market for leather boots, but these caught my eye!
8. Marisa Straight Leg Corduroys - $59.50 - I love my teal ones from last year - plus this is an easy way to be in style with the popular burgundy trend!

Check back later for a fall nail polish post!

Old Navy picks

I was running errands the other day and stopped into Old Navy to check out this scarf that I've been admiring online. Turns out it's even better in person! It's super soft and is long enough to wrap 3 times if desired, although personally I like the loose look of just twice.

Of course I had to browse to see what else was going on + try on a few items.. I left empty handed, but believe me, I'll be watching for a sale and I'll be back! :)

1. Boat-neck sweater - $24.94 - loved the fit and feel of this in person! (see a pic of me in it here)

2. Crepe sleeveless shirt - $24.94 - I did not try this on but I think it's so cute!

3. Vintage split-neck baseball tee - $12.50

4. Vintage style v-neck - $9.50 - comes in so many colors and gets great reviews!

5. Printed ballet flats - $19.94 - didn't try these on either, but I've been on the hunt since last year!

6. Vintage style v-neck - $9.50

My biggest dilemma is with the polka dot sweater. I do love polka dots (typically much smaller in size), but this sweater is super popular in the blog world because it's a good look-for-less for this J Crew sweater. I'm just wondering how I'll feel about it next year? I prefer this bright color combo (also comes in white with blank and camel with black) but apart from jeans I'm not sure what else I would wear it with. The white with black feels too summery, and the camel and black just isn't as fun, but perhaps more wearable? I probably wouldn't tire of it as quickly either... Oh fashion dilemmas! Input appreciated as always! :)

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!

Gap stripe love

There are times when I look at gap.com and just fall in love. Now is one of those times! I'm not really sure when I fell so head over heals for horizontal stripes (since aren't those supposed to be a fashion no no?) but my goodness I'd have no qualms about owning many of these pieces! I think it's because they are so versatile!

1. Striped button shoulder t - $22.95

2. Colorblock dolman-sleeve top - $24.95 *probably my favorite!

3. Striped crewneck top - $29.95 - looks great layered!

4. Striped elbow-sleeve t - $24.95

5. Luxe jersey striped henley - $29.95

6. Striped jersey tank - $12.99 on sale!

What do you think?

P.S. Happy Olympics!

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?

J Crew outlet: Spring

Yesterday husband and I went to the outlet mall to walk around and get some fresh air! It was chilly and windy but nice to be out of the apartment!

We stopped in J Crew, but I didn't make any purchases. It feels somewhat strange buying spring stuff when it is so chilly outside! Give me another week or two and I'm sure I'll be ready!

If you follow me on Pinterest you saw some of these lovely pieces I have my eye on! Pretty, pretty!

1. Short Sleeve Eyelet Blouse - $39.50
2. Perfect Camp Shirt in Indian Voile - $34.50
3. Perfect Shirt in Suckered Gingham - $59.50
4. Button Shoulder V-neck Sweater - $34.50
5. Tube Scarf with Bubble Trim - $29.50
6. Thandie Sweater - $49.50
7. Tissue V-neck Classic Tee - $18.50
8. Sun-Drenched Sweatshirt - $54.50
9. Short Sleeve Pocket Top - $59.50

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?

Shopping Trip!

Husband was away for an Army weekend so Saturday I took care of some errands! After a yummy breakfast with the in laws I went to the mall. I had a return to make and intended to simply explore the other stores. ;)

Instead I came home with a couple of bags..

1. Fresh Sugar Passion Tinted Lip Treatment - this had been on my wish list for sometime. It does not disappoint! And you know I'm a self-proclaimed lip junkie!
2. Nars Blush: Orgasm - I was just about out of this! Btw it really is worth all the hype! A beautiful color that is known to look great on all skin tones and still looks great at the end of the day!
3. Chambray Shirt - I picked up a chambray shirt at Target (worn here- sold out online), but sadly it's just not the right fit. I like it ok with my trouser jeans, but somehow it's just off. I think my torso is too long or something! This one is darker (in case that was the problem) and it's longer in length!
4. Yellow Belt - I've been on the hunt! Love the price (compared to this look-a-like)! Sold out in yellow online, but check your Old Navy store!
5. Bath & Body Works Wallflowers - these are on special 4 for $20! I purchased White Palm, Spring, Lilac Blossom, and Sunrise Lagoon! I picked White Palm to try first as it's pretty neutral and not too spring-y. I'm saving Lilac Blossom for the bedroom when our current one runs out! It's lovely!

Did you make any purchases this weekend?

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

Fall Boots

My current shopping craving for fall? brown riding boots. Here are a couple of beautiful options I've found!

1. Nine West News Flash Boots - $159

2. Tahari Bryant Riding Boots - $229

3. Lauren by Ralph Lauren Raeanne Boots - $269

4. Frye Melissa Button Extended Boots - $318

5. Lucky Brand Aida Boots - $199

6. Sofft Barinas Boots - $190

7. Nine West Nettle Boots - $179

8. Franco Sarto Profile Boots - $199

Do you have riding boots? They seem so wonderfully versatile!!

Time Management and My Fall Wishlist!

 I'm back!  I have not forgotten SWC!  Thank for picking up my slack, Tina :)  My workload has tripled and I have been working from home trying to catch up on documentation.  A co-worker told me to stop immediately because it will start to take over my life, hence no blogging.  Is anyone else guilty of chronically working at home?  I thought I had set good boundaries, but I guess I am still working on it. We had staff development on Thursday and were discussing ways to help with time management.  One co-worker shared this amazing idea called "Power Hour."  It is when you take an hour out of your day and finish everything you need to.  You do this by shutting your door, getting out of your email, putting your phone on do not disturb and putting your cell on silent.  I may put a sign on my door as well.  Is this not the most brilliant idea?!  Do y'all do this?  Am I the last one to know about this little nugget of joy?  I was off on Friday and am starting tomorrow.  Things tend to come up in this type of work, but I feel like I can accomplish this goal.  I think this is a tip that can work with any profession.  Try it out and let me know what you think!

So this is my first weekend of being work-free and it feels great.  I have been back playing on pinterest and awaiting the arrival of fall.  Many of the blogs I regularly ready have created fall wish lists and I thought I would follow.  Some are more practical than others, it's a wish list, right!? Here it is:

1.Monogram necklace- This necklace (to me) is the new version of the "Carrie" necklace that SJP wore during SATC.  Also I'm a lover of a monogram.  When I pinned it in pinterest I labeled it "Always need another monogram."

2. Lace top-  It will be a nice fall addition to the wardrobe. 

3. Gingham button-up shirt-  I love the way it can be layered.

4. Red Pants- Ask anyone- I have been hunting for them for months.  I can't find any that fit or are somewhat casual, oh and that don't break the bank.  I can also wear them to Alabama Football games!  

5. Women's Angelfish Slip-On Boat Shoe in Leopard- I have loved these since they came out last year.  I have a secret love of Leopard print.  My phone cover is purple leopard print, which says it all.  I will probably ask the husband for these during holiday time :)

6. Remington T-Studio Pearl Ceramic Curling Wand- Target had this on sale for $21.99 last week and I indulged yesterday, before the sale was over.  I wasn't going to, but it got awesome reviews on amazon.  I'm going to practice on myself today so I can wear my hair wavy to work tomorrow. Pics to come when I can perfect the curls!

7.  The Louis Vuitton Speedy 30-  I assume I will not get this anytime soon!  My grandmother had a Louis exactly like this when I was growing up and I just see this purse as a classic and timeless piece.  Sadly my grandmother's Louis has disappeared :(  I should put this on my long-term wish list!

8.  OPI- You Don't Know Jacques- I have lusted over this interesting neutral polish for a whole year.  Why?  My local Ulta runs out within 3 days of getting the shipment.  I was so wanting this polish that I was going to buy it on Amazon.  I decided to give Ulta one more chance and low and behold there was one left!  Yay, I crossed 2 off my list!

What's on your fall wish list??

Wild Thing

... You make my heart sing!

I'm on the hunt for animal print flats (pretty sure I've mentioned this before)! This is what I've found. Now I just have to try them on and find one that meets my comfort level standard!

The under $60s:

1. Bandolino Holden Flats - $54.99
2. Material Girl Cooper Flats - $29.95
3. Mossimo Vitia Snip Bow Flat - $24.99
4. G by GUESS Mermaide Flats - $49
5. Mossimo Odell Ballet Flats - $12.99
6. Crocs Wiona Leopard Flats - $34.99
7. Steve Madden Koool-L Flats - $49.99 - Still love these!!
8. Lucky Brand Emmie Flats - $59 - A possible contender!

Over $60:

1. Kelsi Dagger Jordi Flats - $99 - I love these!
2. Naturalizer Cabaret Flats - $69
3. Anne Klein Iylia iFlex Flats -$79
4. Carlos by Carlos Santana Girly Flats - $69
5. Calvin Klein Pritah Flats - $109
6. Fossil Maddox Flats - $68
7. Lauren by RL Abria Flats - $79
8. BCBGeneration Ely Flats - $79

Does your heart sing for animal print??

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