xoxo, closet girl

Wednesday, April 13, 2011

2011-04-16T21:40:00.002-04:00

Cardigan: The Limited

Tank: Old Navy

Jeans: Express

Shoes: Payless Shoes

Necklace: Ann Taylor Loft

This was my last day of work for the company I was contracting with. YAY for new jobs and moving on up!

I picked up this awesome beaded necklace at ATL last week during Friends & Family, plus I had a $15 birthday coupon, so I ended up getting this $40 necklace for $13. Gotta love stores that let you combine coupons! Although it's debut wasn't too inspiring (I was running late and failed to plan ahead!), I see this necklace working into my new work wardrobe fairly often in the weeks to come.

Saturday, April 11, 2011

2011-04-11T20:13:00.004-04:00

Shirt: The Limited

Tank: Old navy

Jeans: Express

Boots: Steve Madden

Necklaces: Amy Cornwell Designs

This outfit is relatively boring but I couldn't help wanting to show off my new Steve Madden rain boots. They are hunter green with an orange striped zipper up the back - how fun is that?! Makes rainy Saturdays just a tiny bit less disappointing when I can slip these babies on!

Thursday, April 7, 2011

2011-04-07T19:02:00.004-04:00

Jacket: The Limited

Shirt: The Limited

Jeans: Express

Shoes: Steve Madden

Necklace: New York & Company

I gotta say, I'm kind of in love with this outfit today. May be my new favorite. I picked up this jacket on a trip to SC a few weeks ago and am finally getting around to wearing it before it warms up too much. It's hard to tell in the picture but the sleeves have the most adorable ruching on the arms.

I picked up this necklace over the weekend at New York & Company's 50% off sale. It's much louder than the stuff I usually wear but I'm totally digging it. Wish I had it in black and silver because I'd wear this thing out!

Tuesday, April 5, 2011

2011-04-06T21:21:00.002-04:00

Sweater: The Limited

Tank: The Limited

Jeans: Express

Shoes: Nine West

Necklace: Lia Sophia

Not sure what's up with my crazy hair at the end of the day. This is why I don't take end-of-day pictures! HA!

This cardigan is heavy weight knit so it's perfect for those Spring days that start out chilly and warm up throughout the day.

I should have taken a picture of the tank top underneath. It's a pretty watercolor that reminds me of a Monet. I have a really bad habit of pairing everything with white tank tops because it's easy, so I'm making an effort to branch out with more patterns underneath my cardigans. Definitely think this one is a win!

Saturday, April 2, 2011

2011-04-03T21:41:00.002-04:00

Cardigan: Express

Tank: Express

Jeans: The Limited

Shoes: Payless Shoes

Necklace: Ann Taylor Loft

I wasn't sold on this outfit when I snapped this picture and contemplated changing the tank top out for something else, but was too lazy to figure out what. I ran a bajillion errands and got four separate compliments on my cute outfit. Shows what I know! HA! Sometimes we are our own worst critics.

Thursday, March 31, 2011

2011-04-01T23:48:00.002-04:00

Sweater: Ann Taylor Loft

Jeans: Express

Shoes: Payless Shoes

Necklace: The Limited

I basically refuse to acknowledge the fact that we continue to have below average temperatures here. First with my short sleeves yesterday and today with my open toed booties. I am determined to simply will Spring into being. (I'll let y'all know how that works out for me!).

This sweater is the clothing equivalent of a mullet - business in the front, party in the back. I forgot to take a picture but the back has a black zipper running down the middle from neck to tail (it matches the two black shoulder embellishments). I loved it the minute I saw it at ATL and thought about it for two weeks straight before I finally gave in and bought it while we were on vacation in NYC (so I could cheat and call it a souvenir!).

Wednesday, March 30, 2011

2011-03-31T15:44:00.004-04:00

Cardigan: The Limited

Shirt: The Limited

Jeans: Express

Belt: Express

Shoes: Payless Shoes

Bracelets: Simply Irresistible

I love the print on this blouse - it's got all of my favorite colors and it just makes me smile every time I look down at it. I first pictured it with this big pink and orange necklace that I have, but after taking my first picture yesterday I realized the blousy effect of the top plus the cardigan was making me look wide, so I ran upstairs and swapped out the necklace for a belt to tie things in. So funny how things can look find in the mirror but then pictures tell a whole different story!

Tuesday, March 29, 2011

2011-03-29T17:47:00.005-04:00

Sweater: The Limited

Tank: Gap

Denim: The Limited

Shoes: Steve Madden

Bracelet: Express

Necklaces: Amy Cornwell Designs

I had another office day with the boss today. It's still in the 40's here but I'm doing my best to ignore it and pretend that it's still Spring! This sweater is the perfect transition piece for these not-so-warm days. It's three quarter length sleeves are a nod to my need not to cover up but the super thick fabric keeps the parts of me that are covered warm! Who doesn't love a good compromise?

Sunday, March 27, 2011

2011-03-28T06:04:00.000-04:00

Dress: The Limited

Tights: Hue

Shoes: Nine West via Shoe Woo in NYC

Necklaces: The Limited

Cheating a little with the sweater dress for church today. But it's warm and easy and it bought me an extra 15 minutes of sleep this cold morning!

I picked up these peep-toe heels during our last trip to New York City. I am just now getting to debut them and already I'm in love. Two compliments at church (from strangers, no less!) in the 1.5 hours I wore them. I'm thinking these babies are going to see a lot of action in the weeks to come!

Saturday, March 26, 2011

2011-03-27T17:40:00.002-04:00

Top: New York & Company

Jeggings: Banana Republic

Boots: via Endless.com

Scarf: New York & Company

I spent the day running errands and then off to small group. It was actually a little too chilly for this thin cotton shirt but I was feeling the pink scarf and just built the rest of the outfit from there. I spent half the winter looking for the perfect red plaid lumberjack button down but never could find anything I loved that fit well.

On a side note: What's up with putting pockets on the front of everything lately? What woman walks around with stuff in a breast pocket? End rant.

Thursday, March 24, 2011

2011-03-25T09:22:00.000-04:00

Cardigan: Ann Taylor Loft

Tank: Old Navy

Jeggings: Banana Republic

Boots: Rocket Dog

Necklace: Lia Sophia

Well, the break was nice while it lasted but it appears Old Man Winter has returned to my little corner of the world. We've been enjoying 60 degree weather but the high today was mid-30's and there's snow in the forecast for tomorrow. Awesome.

I'm trying to look on the bright side: I have one last chance to wear all my favorite winter pieces, like these Rocket Dog boots.

Even snow clouds have a silver lining.

Wednesday, March 23, 2011

2011-03-24T21:17:00.003-04:00

Jacket: The Limited

Skirt: The Limited

Belt: Came with the jacket

Shoes: Sam & Libby

I had a client meeting this afternoon so it gave me an excuse to dust off my favorite "Wow 'em" jacket and dress up a little bit. I love that this outfit is professional enough for the business environment but still manages to show some personality and femininity. I have a hard time finding suiting that doesn't make me look like a big old rectangle, so when I find something I love that actually works, I wear it out!

Sunday, March 20, 2011

2011-03-22T09:23:00.000-04:00

Dress: The Limited

Shoes: Aldo Shoes

Necklace: Simply Irresistible

Church this morning. We're enjoying slightly warmer weather but still chilly enough to need the sweater dress. (Of course!) I love the stripes on this dress. And who doesn't love a one piece dress that looks like it actually took some thought to put together?

Saturday, March 19, 2011

2011-03-21T09:10:00.001-04:00

Top: The Limited

Jeggings: Express

Shoes: Payless Shoes

Necklace: New York & Company

Headband: New York & Company

I had a haircut appointment on Saturday morning, so I was rocking the headband in the morning. I don't do it very often because I don't like the way they look on me, but I picked this one up for $2.00 and I actually really like it.

I am also loving this super cheap necklace I picked up this week. It's got silver 'feathers' and makes me feel kind of bad-ass. (You gotta take it where you can get it!)

Friday, March 18, 2011

2011-03-20T20:56:00.002-04:00

Dress: Ann Taylor Loft

Sweater: The Limited

Shoes: Sam & Libby

I had a client meeting Friday morning and then another business-type meeting in the afternoon. I needed something that could easily take me from a casual business environment to one where I probably should have been wearing a suit. I was also pretty stoked to finally be able to go without tights. YAY for Spring (or at least Spring-like weather!)

Tuesday, March 8, 2011

2011-03-14T18:27:00.003-04:00

Cardigan: Old Navy

Tank: Express

Jeggings: Banana Republic

Boots: Charles David

Necklace: New York & Company

I've always had a love affair with stripes and the fact that they are 'in' this season has only exacerbated the problem. And if it's black and white stripes? Forgetaboutit. That baby's coming home with me!

I was hooked the minute I saw this grandpa cardigan at Old Navy. I've worn it at least once a week since I bought it back in February. And if you know me, you know that's not normal. That's true love.

Sunday, February 13, 2011

2011-02-15T10:06:00.005-05:00

Top: The Limited

Jeggings: Express

Boots: Rocket Dog via Macy's

Necklace: Lia Sophia

So, um, about that two month ~~abandonment~~ absence? Let's just forget that ever happened, okay? Can we still be friends if I promise to do better?

Sunday I had a ton of errands to run in the beautiful sunshine. We finally hit 40F here and I'm pretty sure our entire town was out enjoying the sunshine!

When I first heard of jeggings I thought it was the most ridiculous idea I'd ever heard. Well, maybe second only to bringing back neon and shoulder pads last season, but I digress.....I didn't think I'd ever set ~~foot~~ leg inside a jegging - boy was I wrong. I found a pair on clearance at Express in December and I have been wearing them out ever since! Jeggings are to boots what peanut butter is to jelly. I am in love. Now my only regret is waiting so long to try them (and not buying two pairs while they were on sale!).

Sunday, December 19, 2010

2010-12-22T07:48:00.000-05:00

Top: The Limited

Skirt: Ann Taylor Loft

Tights: Hue

Booties: Payless Shoes

Necklace: Forever 21

Bracelet: Ann Taylor Loft

My new company had a Christmas/New Client celebration dinner last night, so it was night #2 in a row of dressing up. YAY for busy, dressed up weekends! As much as I love working at home most days, I definitely miss getting dressed up every day.

I am not normally a black-and-navy combo kind of girl but I'm liking this one. The tweed skirt is navy with black shot through it, so it's a good baby step in the black and navy mixing direction!

Saturday, December 18, 2010

2010-12-21T07:29:00.004-05:00

Cardigan: Banana Republic

Tank: GAP

Shorts: Express

Tights: Hue

Booties: Payless Shoes

Necklaces: The Limited

Ring: The Limited

We had a super busy weekend. Saturday night we went out for sushi and to see the musical Wicked with friends. I love getting dressed up for nights out and was so happy the weather finally cooperated so that I could wear these shorts!

The shorts-and-tights combo was something I always loved on other people in magazines. I wasn't so sure that I could pull it off. But I think I finally found exactly the right pair of shorts to make it work for me.

As a side note: when did it become acceptable to attend a theater performance in jeans and a sweatshirt? I was completely shocked at how casually a lot of my fellow theater-goers were dressed. Are we really that lazy that we can't even put on a dress or slacks for a night out? Kind of takes away a little of the magic of a theater night when you look like you could be equally comfortable sitting on your couch watching Eastbound and Down.

Wednesday, December 15, 2010

2010-12-17T20:26:00.004-05:00

Cardigan: Old Navy

Tank: Gap

Denim: Express

Boots: Steve Madden

It's been a cold, wet week here in Indy. Four straight days of snowy, icy weather make me so happy to be working from home again this winter!

I went out Wednesday night to do a little Christmas shopping and have dinner with friends. there was only one requirement for my wardrobe: STAY AS WARM AS POSSIBLE.

Knee socks? Check.

Faux fur lined boots? Check.

Double-knit cardigan? Check.

Mission accomplished.

Sunday, December 12, 2010

2010-12-13T13:40:00.003-05:00

Cardigan: Ann Taylor Loft

T-shirt: Victoria's Secret NFL Collection

Pants: Express

Boots: Charles David

I'm back home after a wonderful week with my loved ones in SC. I've been a bit spoiled seeing my family twice in November, all last week and again in just 9 days! I will be one sad girl in January when all the fun is over.

We had a busy day out and about yesterday despite the yucky weather. After a full morning, we met my bestie and her husband at a sports bar to watch the Steelers/Bengals game. Lucky for me, the Colts played on Thursday night so I didn't feel too bad supporting Nate's team in my Steelers tee. Although I did manage to cover it up just a tiny bit! HA! Can't be too unfaithful to my boys in Blue.

Saturday, December 4, 2010

2010-12-04T20:59:00.003-05:00

Dress: Old Navy

Tights: Hue

Boots: Charles David

Necklace: The Limited

Ring: The Limited

We had our small group Christmas dinner at a Brazilian restaurant downtown tonight. For weeks now I've been planning to try out my new sparkly tweed Express shorts with tights. Imagine my immense disappointment when I woke up this morning to driving snow that just never quit. Four inches of snow and four inch heels just don't mix. Boo.

So it was on to Plan B. Slightly less dressy but much warmer and less dangerous! Turns out Plan B was a blessing in disguise - the roomy dress came in very handy when I ate my weight in cheddar cheese puff biscuits at dinner!

I was also debuting my new blunt bangs. I went in for a trim this morning and decided there was no time like the present to give them a try. Don't know how long they'll last but at least I can finally say I gave them a go!

Thursday, December 2, 2010

2010-12-03T09:15:00.000-05:00

Sweater: New York & Company

Top: Gifted (by Micayla!)

Denim: The Limited

Necklace: Amy Cornwell Designs

I always see button down shirts paired with sweaters in the store and love the look but can rarely stand to actually wear the combination in real life. Every time I try it I end up feeling either: 1. lumpy and bumpy or 2. all twisted up.

But I really wanted to pair this yellow sweater with this flowered top, so I sucked it up and made it work. It took me probably 15 minutes to get the top smoothed out under the sweater enough to not annoy me. That's way too much effort, in my opinion!

Is there a look you see in stores that you wish you were more comfortable wearing? Do you wear long sleeves under sweaters? How do you make it work? I'm open to suggestions!

Wednesday, December 1, 2010

2010-12-02T21:06:00.003-05:00

Sweater: The Limited

Shirt: Old Navy

Pants: Express

Boots: Steve Madden

Necklace: Gifted

Rings: The Limited

Happy December! Indy rang in the new month with it's first accumulation of snow. Not a lot but enough to keep me bundled up when I had to run out for a bit. It's days like yesterday that make me glad I work from home again!

My favorite thing about the winter months is that I get to start layering again! I look through my closet and I'm positively giddy with the excitement of winter layering. Oh the possibilities!

What's your favorite thing about winter clothing?

Saturday, November 27, 2010

2010-11-28T20:13:00.004-05:00

Sweater: The Limited

Pants: Express

Boots: Aldo Shoes

Necklace: Amy Cornwell Designs

We had a low key day around here. My family left to go back to SC (BOO!) and I started the Christmas decorating to distract myself from being left behind. We attended small group last night and I just had to wear orange to celebrate the Vols' victory over the Kentucky ~~Wildcats~~ Kittens yesterday afternoon.

I am also debuting my newest Amy Cornwell necklace. She recently announced that she was discontinuing this style and since I'd had my eye on it for awhile, I had to snap one up! It is a perfect reminder of all that I have to be thankful for in my life right now. I am definitely blessed.

And if you want your own ACD necklace or need to order a Christmas gift, check out Amy's Cyber Monday deals here. Promotions end tonight!

Friday, November 26, 2010

2010-11-26T21:51:00.002-05:00

T-shirt: Old Navy

Oh yes, boys and girls, it is that time of year again - time for cheesy holiday tees! My Grinch t-shirt is the perfect choice for Black Friday shopping today. It definitely made people smile all day!

Tuesday, November 22, 2010

2010-11-25T18:44:00.003-05:00

Cardigan: Banana Republic

Tank: Old Navy

Pants: The Limited

Shoes: Baker's Shoes

Necklaces: The Limited

Another client meeting on Tuesday. I had about a two hour drive to and from my meeting so I wanted something comfortable and warm for the trip.

Funny story about these pants. I bought them about three weeks ago when it was still pretty warm. I just hung them in the closet until the weather was a little more appropriate for heavy tweed. Then I completely forgot about them. Until last weekend, when I bought the exact same pants again. I only realized it when I got home and went to hang them next to my other new pants - the exact same pair! Apparently I really like these pants. HA!

Monday, November 22, 2010

2010-11-25T18:26:00.006-05:00

Dress: The Limited

Necklaces: Express & The Limited

Tights: Hue

Booties: Aldo Shoes

Jacket: Paris (2002 trip!)

I had a client meeting on Monday. I always try to play it a little safe the first time I meet a new client. There's nothing safer or easier than a simple sweater dress. This one is super soft gray and one of my winter staples.

I bought this hounds tooth trapeze jacket on a trip to Europe in 2002. I still love it now as much as the day I bought it. It's super easy to throw it on over just about anything for a pulled together look. It will be a sad day in my closet when this one finally bites the dust!

Sunday, November 21, 2010

2010-11-21T21:25:00.002-05:00

Dress: The Limited

Tights: We Love Colors

Socks: New York & Company

Boots: Steve Madden

Bracelet: The Limited

It was a tiny bit warmer today (upper 50's) but still overcast and gray, so it was the perfect weather to pull out this new sweater dress. I originally planned to belt it but then I realized it's kind of short and belting it made it a little too scandalous for church! So I nixed the belt idea.

I opted to try knee socks under my boots and I gotta say, I kind of like it. I wasn't so sure at first but it really grew on me! Definitely a good option for the really cold weather to come later this week!

Friday, November 19, 2010

2010-11-19T18:18:00.003-05:00

Sweater: Gap

T-shirt: The Limited

Pants: Express

Booties: Payless Shoes

Ring: Simply Irresistible

I've had a quiet week at home after a weekend away and haven't been out and about much. I've got a busy weekend ahead though and I can't wait to start layering up for the winter weather!

I visited a craft fair with a friend this afternoon and am heading over to another friend's house for dinner and drinks tonight. She's got two young children and I know they'll be all over me like white on rice, which calls for easy pieces I can throw in the laundry when I get home! I love the giant fold over collar on this cable-knit sweater. I can't get away with oversized clothes very often so when I find something that works, I'm always super excited!

I'm still enjoying playing around with my new haircut. I'm even toying with the idea of cutting the bangs shorter and going blunt (a la Jessica at What I Wore) for a few weeks. Jury is still out on that one though. I've got two votes for and one against (and a one 'whatever' from the hubby).

Today's my first experiment in going with my natural wave. I think I like it!

Monday, November 8, 2010

2010-11-08T18:43:00.004-05:00

Sweater: The Limited

Tank: New York & Company

Skirt: Banana Republic

Shoes: Kohl's

Necklaces: Amy Cornwell Designs

Today was my last day of client meetings at the office and now it's straight work from home the rest of the week. YAY!

I took advantage of the warmer temperatures today to wear my new Candies heels from Kohls. These are probably my best steal ever - $49.99 shoes that I got for....{drumroll, please}.....$.97. Yes, you read that right, I paid less than a dollar. Gotta love clearance prices + Kohls cash. Best score ever!

Saturday, November 6, 2010

2010-11-07T20:44:00.002-05:00

Top: The Limited

Jeans: Express

Boots: Aldo

Necklace: Premier Designs

Bracelet: Express

Hat: Express

I spent the better part of today at one of my favorite places - the salon. Nothing like letting someone play with your hair for three hours on a Saturday. I know that weirds some people out but I love every minute of it!

I've been lacking in my support of the Vols this season, so I decided to sport some orange in honor of their game with Memphis last night (Go Big Orange!). I literally rolled out of bed and left for my appointment, so 'ease' was the word of the day. Nothing beats slouchy boots and a knit cap for making you look put together when, truth be told, you're really lucky you even match today!

The end result of three hours at the salon. Here's hoping I can duplicate this myself tomorrow!

Friday, October 5, 2010

2010-11-05T20:45:00.002-04:00

Sweater: The Limited

Turtleneck: Express

Skirt: Ann Taylor Loft

Necklace: Simply Irresistible

Tights: Hue

Booties: Payless Shoes

Today was the second of my three days of client meetings. It was business casual Friday at their office, so we got to dress down a tiny bit. I layered up again for the long day and boy was I glad I did - we had snow flurries this afternoon! Holy winter weather, Batman. I am so not ready for this! But if I can't be warm and cozy at home, at least I can keep warm in this plaid flannel skirt and cuddly sweater.

Thursday, November 4, 2010

2010-11-04T21:28:00.002-04:00

Jacket: The Limited

Top: Gifted

Pants: Banana Republic

Booties: Payless Shoes

I had my first client meeting today for the new job. There office is business professional so it gave me a good excuse to wear one of my favorite suit jackets. I own several full suits but I rarely wearing the matching pieces together. I prefer to mix and match them like I'm doing today.

I wore a three quarter length sleeve striped shirt underneath so I had a whole separate outfit if I chose to remove the jacket. I was so thankful I'd thought ahead because our conference room got super hot when they turned on the heat half way through the day.

Love #10

2010-11-03T17:57:00.003-04:00

I need more shoes like I need a hole in the head, but these boots from Ann Taylor Loft are practically begging to come home with me. Blonde? Suede? Over the knee? Yes, please!

Tuesday, November 2, 2010

2010-11-02T20:04:00.003-04:00

Dress: The Limited

Shoes: Vera Wang for Kohl's

Bracelet: Loft

Necklace: Amy Cornwell Designs

This dress may be slightly seasonally inappropriate but I don't even care. I was feeling extra cheerful this morning, if a tad bit lazy, and wanted something to match my mood.

I know I should be wearing all my favorite things during my last few occasions to dress up but there's just something so easy about reaching for a shift dress. It's almost like cheating.

What item do you reach for when you're feeling lazy?

Monday, November 1, 2010

2010-11-01T20:37:00.004-04:00

Sweater: The Limited

Skirt: Express

Belt: The Limited

Shoes: Steve Madden

Today was my first day at the new job. Normally I'll work from home but today I got a crash course in my new company. It made for a very long day so I wanted to be comfortable. It's getting pretty chilly here so this is probably one of my last few bare-legged days. Sad day.

Thursday, October 28, 2010

2010-10-30T16:59:00.002-04:00

Top: Express

Skirt: The Limited

Belt: Came with another dress

Shoes: Aldo Shoes

Bracelet: New York & Company

Necklace: Amy Cornwell Designs

I'm feeling very Carolina Herrera in this outfit today. All I need is a chignon, a strand of pearls and a little collar pop!

I used to have a very bad habit of confusing 'dressed up' with 'dressed only in black and white'. Thankfully I've learned to embrace color in my wardrobe, but there's still just something that draws me to black and white time and again.

Tuesday, October 26, 2010

2010-10-26T18:04:00.004-04:00

Top: GAP

Vest: Banana Republic

Skirt: Loft

Shoes: Steve Madden

Necklace: New York & Company

One of the only bad things about my new job is the fact that I no longer have an excuse to dress up every day for work. It's been tough getting dressed this week, knowing that I only have a few more days to wear all of my favorite things!

Unfortunately I made a bad fashion choice this morning! We had a huge storm this morning, accompanied by a tornado warning at 60 MPH wind gusts - not exactly skirt weather. Note to self: check more than just the temperature before getting dressed in the morning.

Monday, October 25, 2010

2010-10-25T20:05:00.000-04:00

Sweater: The Limited

Skirt: The Limited

Shoes: Shii

Bracelet: Simply Irresistible

Do I look stressed in this picture? Yeah, I thought so. The day started out a bit rough, but quickly started looking up. My last few days of work are wrapping up nicely and I even got to leave work early to hear Laura Bush speak at a nearby convention center.

I rarely ever buy a head to toe outfit but I loved this skirt from the minute I saw it. I knew it would be tough to match so I broke my own rules (such a rebel!) and bought the matching sweater. I feel very 1950's secretary in this outfit with my ponytail!

Sunday, October 24, 1010

2010-10-24T20:16:00.003-04:00

Dress: The Limited

Belt: Loft

Shoes: Baker's Shoes

Earrings: The Limited

I didn't take a picture of my outfit today because I was a hot mess after church this morning. This is a dress I wore ~~when I was much tanner~~ during my little summer hiatus but never got around to posting.

I love this electric blue color and find it really interesting paired with the olive and black - kind of an unexpected combination but it works. The dress came with a tie belt but I switched it out for this faux croc belt instead.

Man, I miss that tan!

Friday, October 22, 2010

2010-10-23T16:15:00.002-04:00

Top: The Limited

Pants: Express

Shoes: Baker's Shoes

Necklace: New York & Company

Bracelet: New York & Company

We went to dinner with friends last night. It was a little chilly so I took the opportunity to try out this new Victorian slouch sleeve top. It's the perfect lightweight cotton for a fall date night.

Looking at the picture really makes me wish I had a (faux!) fur vest to pull over this. I've been on the hunt for one for weeks now but they never seem to work on me. I might need to give up the chase. Some trends just don't work no matter how badly you wish they did.

Is there a trend you really want to try but just can't seem to manage?

Thursday, October 21, 2010

2010-10-22T13:18:00.004-04:00

Top: The Limited

Skirt: Loft

Shoes: Aldo

Belt: [came with another dress]

Necklaces: The Limited

I wish I had taken a close-up shot of the print on this skirt. It's got a fun leopard print with these funky metallic threads running through the black spots. I could only find it in a size too big but I really wanted it. So I bought it when it finally hit clearance and just hoped my tailor could do something with it. He did an amazing job because it now fits beautifully. A good tailor is a girl's very best friend!

Tuesday, October 19, 2010

2010-10-22T13:08:00.002-04:00

Cardigan: Banana Republic

Top: The Limited

Pants: Banana Republic

Shoes: BCBGirls

Necklaces: Amy Cornwell Designs

I had a business trip this week so I've gotten a bit behind on posting these. I spent the day in the office and then had to drive three hours down to Kentucky for a meeting, so I needed to be super comfortable.

I absolutely love this cashmere boyfriend cardigan from Banana Republic and I'm kicking myself for not buying it in every available color.

I'm also loving my new Amy Cornwell Family Tree necklace. I absolutely love being able to personalize my jewelry to be meaningful to me! I couldn't get a good picture of it today but I'll try again over the weekend.

Monday, October 17, 2010

2010-10-18T17:35:00.000-04:00

Dress: The Limited

Belt: New York & Company

Shoes: Payless Shoes

Bracelets: Simply Irresistible

This is another dress that I pulled from the depths of my closet over the weekend. I love a simple shift dress for fall. It looks great on it's own but isn't too bulky under a cardigan to ward off the morning chill. Think I might keep this one out for the winter and see how it does with black tights and a blue or green cardigan too.

Sunday, October 17, 2010

2010-10-17T17:19:00.004-04:00

Cardigan: The Limited

Tank: New York & Company

Skirt: Banana Republic

Shoes: Aldo Shoes

I cleaned out my closet yesterday and ran across several items that I'd completely forgotten about. Now I've got outfits for the whole week planned!

First up was this tank top. When I bought it, I envisioned wearing it with a coral cardigan, to bring out the fun oranges in the top. However when I started styling it yesterday, I realized that when you put on long sleeves, it covers every bit of the pretty coral color. Boo.

So I got adventurous and mixed brown and gray. I've never tried that before and I think I'm kind of liking it. Although looking at the picture now, I kind of wish I'd added a belt over the skirt.

Friday, October 15, 2010

2010-10-16T17:44:00.004-04:00

Top: Loft

Pants: The Limited

Shoes: Alfani

Bracelet: The Limited

The lighting is this picture does not do the color of this top justice. It's an iridescent citrus-y green that I absolutely fell in love with. The pants are actually brown, despite how black they look in this picture. Boo for poorly lit pictures!

Thought I'd combine the funky color with something unexpected - leopard print. I mean, who doesn't love a little leopard on a Friday, right?

Thursday, October 14, 2010

2010-10-14T20:42:00.003-04:00

Dress: The Limited

Cardigan: Banana Republic

Shoes: Payless Shoes

Necklace: The Limited

Ring: Premier Designs

We had a big thunderstorm yesterday that brought some cooler weather. My first thought this morning after tearing myself from my warm cozy bed was cashmere. If I can't stay in bed on this chilly morning, I must make it worth the effort!

I love the graphic print of this dress. Earlier this year I wore it pretty plain with a giant black pendant. This time I belted it up with a cashmere cardi and piled on the necklaces.

I'm on the lookout for a black tissue turtleneck to layer under it next time. If you see one, give a girl a shout, would you? And if you find one in cashmere? I'll (heart) you forever.

Tuesday, October 12, 2010

2010-10-12T20:14:00.003-04:00

Dress: The Limited

Belt: The Limited

Shoes: Baker's Shoes

Bracelet: Express

I was flipping through my closet last night, looking desperately for some fashion inspiration when I ran across this dress which I haven't worn since last April. The Kelley green is a little spring-y but it's one of my all time favorite colors to wear, so I figured what the heck. We've got about two more days of 80-degree weather before Fall returns and I better make the most of it!

This dress actually came with a much darker brown belt. I prefer swapping it out for this thinner toffee colored one. Plus it gives me a perfect excuse to wear these cage sandals one more time this year!

Monday, October 11, 2010

2010-10-11T17:52:00.003-04:00

Dress: The Limited

Shoes: Alfani

Bracelets: Simply Irresistible

Necklaces: Amy Cornwell Designs

This is quite possibly my new favorite dress. There's nothing like an easy LBD to get you through a Monday morning. And if that little black beauty happens to be soft-as-pajamas cotton? So much the better.

This dress needed very little added to it. The wrap part gathers in the front in a pretty feminine way and the tulip skirt is to die for. I felt very girl-y today.

Throw in my favorite zebra heels and suddenly Monday's not looking so bad after all.

Sunday, October 10, 2010

2010-10-10T17:42:00.004-04:00

Dress: Express

Shoes: Guess

Necklace: New York & Company

Another lovely day in the I-N-D. Wishing I was at the game to cheer on the boys in blue!

I love this dress because it fits like a glove, but when I sit down, it's scarily short. It's no good for work, so what's a girl to do? Wear it to church, course!

Okay, so I took a sweater and covered my knees with it. Figured I could get away with that for the 2 hours we were in church. I just can't bring myself to get rid of the dress altogether. A perfectly tailored dress is hard to find, y'all!

Do you hang onto clothes you know you probably shouldn't?

Love #9

2010-10-09T20:59:00.004-04:00

I've been on the lookout for a pair of wellies for the last two winters. These olive green beauties from Steve Madden? Well worth the wait.

Business in the front:
Party in the back:
I might be head over (rubber) heels.

Saturday, October 9, 2010

2010-10-09T17:56:00.004-04:00

Top: New York & Company

Tank: Old Navy

Shorts: Express

Shoes: Loft

Necklace: Express

Ring: The Limited

It's Indian Summer here in Indy - high 80's after a beautiful week of 60's and 70's. As much as I love the cooler temperatures, I know I'll be begging for sunshine again in only a few weeks time! So I soaked up the sunshine as I ran about 10 million errands today - a not so fun side effect of 6 straight weekends of goofing off! I made the most of it though and got a lot accomplished.

This was the perfect outfit for running around town. The cotton tee kept me covered until it warmed up but wasn't unbearably hot for the mid-afternoon temps. My new statement necklace and big green ring really popped against the plain white tee. Funny how $15 worth of accessories can jazz up a plain jane outfit.

What's your favorite accessory when your outfit needs a little pick-me-up?

Friday, October 8, 2010

2010-10-08T17:42:00.006-04:00

Top: New York & Company

Jeans: Express

Shoes: Aldo

Cuff: New York & Company

I worked from home today and managed to squeeze in a few errands during my lunch break. We've been traveling like crazy lately and I've neglected just about every household duty, so this weekend is dedicated to running errands like nobody's business.

This t-shirt doesn't quite fall into the cheesy tee category, but it's pretty close. I was shopping with a friend when she pointed it out to me, laughing about how the girl kind of looked like me. Not quite, but close enough to make me laugh every time I look at it. Is it bad to admit I'm totally jealous of the volume in t-shirt girl's hair?

Tuesday, October 5, 2010

2010-10-05T21:10:00.000-04:00

Dress: LOFT

Cape-let: The Limited

Shoes: Baker's Shoes

Ring: New York & Company

Watch: Premier Designs

I picked up this dress at LOFT for a steal recently and I'm excited about moving into fall with it. I wanted to try it out bare-legged with a little cape-let first but I can totally picture it with black tights and booties later this winter.

I'm trying to make the most of what are probably the last few days of bare-legged, open-toed weather. I love fall, but hate the part that comes after - and usually comes much much too fast for my liking.

What's your favorite season? Is there one you really don't look forward to?

Monday, October 4, 2010

2010-10-05T06:52:00.001-04:00

Cardigan: The Limited

Tank: Express

Pants: The Limited

Shoes: Sam & Libby

Necklace: New York & Company

After a long weekend away with very little sleep, the last thing I wanted to do last night was plan my outfit for today. Especially when I saw that the temperature this morning was in the mid-30's! Holy this-is-not-fall-weather, Batman!

So this is what you get when you don't plan ahead and you don't really want to be getting dressed at all - basic black and random pattern mixing.

Friday, October 1, 2010

2010-10-04T20:28:00.003-04:00

Cardigan: Express

Tank: Old Navy

Jeans: Express

Boots: Aldo

Necklace: LOFT

Bracelet: New York & Company

We spent this weekend in Gatlinburg, TN with some college friends. Friday was traveling day - a seven hour drive! - so I needed layers that I could peel off and on as Nate and I fought over the temperature of the car. :)

I've also learned a valuable lesson in other previous road trips - Pomeranian toe nails are hell on bare legs. So I always wear pants on road trips. And take socks, regardless of the outside temperature, because my feet are always cold.

I also have rules for dressing for the airport. Do you have traveling outfit rules? Or am I just a neurotic mess when traveling?

Thursday, September 30, 2010

2010-09-30T06:10:00.006-04:00

Top: New York & Company

Skirt: The Limited

Belt: The Limited

Shoes: Baker's Shoes

Bracelet: Express

Necklace: Amy Cornwell Designs

I have a business dinner after work tonight that might result in some consulting work for me. YAY! I wanted to look stylish and polished but still business appropriate. I think this animal print top (which I also topped with a little black cardi to ward off the fall chill) strikes just the right balance.

I am also loving the mix of black and brown. That's not something I've ever played around with before. I dig it.

Tuesday, September 28, 2010

2010-09-29T08:04:00.003-04:00

Cardigan: The Limited

Dress: The Limited

Shoes: Aldo

Necklace: The Limited

Ring: New York & Company

I think maybe I should stop shopping at The Limited for awhile, no? I usually try not to be head-to-toe one store, but sometimes it just happens.

It's hard to see in the big picture, but this dress has pleated tiers all the way from the best to the hemline. It is quite a little statement dress but the color makes it more than appropriate for work.

In honor of our fourth day of cool morning temperatures, I busted out these new fold-over peep-toe booties from Aldo. I'm not quite ready to commit to tights yet, but I couldn't resist the booties any longer!

Monday, September 27, 2010

2010-09-27T18:54:00.000-04:00

Dress: The Limited

Vest: New York & Company

Shoes: Payless Shoes

Belt: New York & Company

Bracelets: ?

It finally feels like fall here and it makes me want to layer my little heart out! Layers are my favorite thing about fall. Well, my favorite right after leaves, fire pits, apple cider, boots and tights. :)

Although it's chilly in the mornings, I knew it would heat up by mid-day, so I kept the sleeves short and the layer light. But it's a teeny tiny baby step toward all out fall fashion! YAY!

Thursday, September 23, 2010

2010-09-26T18:49:00.003-04:00

Dress: LOFT

Tank: New York & Company

Belt: New York & Company

Shoes: Payless Shoes

Bracelets: Simply Irresistible

Necklace: Amy Cornwell Designs

I picked this dress up on clearance earlier this week and wanted to get at least one wearing in before it's no longer seasonally appropriate. Unfortunately I chose the windiest day Indy has had in weeks to wear it! Needless to say, I was not strutting my stuff down the street - more like hobbling along with my hands around my knees trying not to give any one a free peepshow! Note to self: Check weather before wearing floaty chiffon dress again.

Tuesday, September 21, 2010

2010-09-22T10:19:00.004-04:00

Cardigan: Loft

Tank: Gap

Pants: Express

Shoes: Baker's Shoes

Scarf: The Traveling Scarf

Today I am participating in Fab Finds Under $50's Sisterhood of the Traveling Scarf - such a fun idea and I'm thrilled to have a part in it! Kimberly has two identical scarves traveling the country for 20 lovely ladies to style it up.

As soon as I saw it, I knew I wanted to play with the yellow in the pattern. I knew a scarf would be the perfect accessory for the jewelry party I was attending last night - I looked cute when I arrived but the scarf was easily removed when it was time to try on all the pretty sparkly things!

The scarf was a bit long for me, so I just wound it up and then knotted the ends until I was happy with the shape and size in the front - then voila! Party perfect.

Thanks, Kimberly, for hosting the traveling scarf and for letting me participate.

Monday, September 20, 2010

2010-09-20T21:04:00.002-04:00

Top: The Limited

Pants: Express

Shoes: Alfani

Belt: Goody's

Bracelets: The Limited

I stayed up way too late last night watching the Boys in Blue whoop up on the Giants. Even though it was safe to hit the hay at bed time (17-0!), I was having too much fun watching Peyton & Co charge down the field like a well-oiled machine!

What wasn't working like a well-oiled machine this morning? That would me. After Weekend #3 out of town, this chick is dragging tail in a major way. Hence the simple I-don't-want-to-think-about-matching-palettes outfit today. Basic neutrals + ruffles + animal print = good enough for me today.

Friday, September 17, 2010

2010-09-17T09:55:00.004-04:00

Top: Express

Pants: The Limited

Shoes: Aldo Shoes

Bracelet: The Limited

I am working from home today before I head off to the great city of Knoxville for the Tennessee v. Florida game tomorrow afternoon! Go Vols!

I love the combination of gold studs on this olive green tank. I am really digging olive and khaki for fall, which is funny because I actually wear very little khaki in real life! Probably means I won't actually jump on that trend wagon, but I like to look at it in the fashion magazines. But olive? That's a trend I can definitely get behind!

Thursday, September 16, 2010

2010-09-16T21:01:00.000-04:00

Dress: Loft

Belt: New York & Company

Shoes: Aldo Shoes

Necklace: Amy Cornwell

Ring: Express

Does this ever happen to you? You go on vacation, intending to take pictures of all the cute outfits you so laboriously packed for your trip, and then you fail to actually take a single shot of anything from the neck down?

Yeah, that never happens to me either.

I wore this dress to a Broadway show when we were in New York City earlier this week and fell completely in love with the whole look. It might be a tiny bit short, but I decided it was close enough and deemed it appropriate for work as well. Who doesn't love a dress that can pull double duty for a night out or a day at the office?

Friday, September 10, 2010

2010-09-10T17:13:00.001-04:00

Dress: Target

Shoes: Shii

Necklace: New York & Company

Bracelet: New York & Company

I completely forgot about this dress hanging in the back of my closet until I ran across it last night while packing for New York City. It's a little too summery to wear much longer, so I knew I had to bust it out ASAP.

I was immediately drawn to the unusual color combination - my favorite color (orange!) and my current color obsession (purple!). It was a complete accident that I happened to have jewelry that matched so perfectly. I paired it with a cute purple cardigan this morning for the dash into work.

Thursday, September 9, 2010

2010-09-09T19:05:00.004-04:00

Top: Banana Republic

Jacket: The Limited

Pants: Banana Republic

Shoes: BCBGirls

Earrings: Simply Irresistible

Bracelets: New York & Company

It's officially fall weather here. It was 41 degrees this morning on my walk to work - just the way I like it!

Of course it's still climbing into the upper 70's during the day, so layers are a must. A sleeveless silk top paired with a three-quarter length jacket is the perfect transition combination.

Thursday, September 2, 2010

2010-09-03T08:12:00.003-04:00

Dress: LOFT

Shoes: Baker's Shoes

Necklace: Express

Ring: The Limited

Another long day at the office this week. I feel like I'm copping out a bit by wearing dresses every day, but I just don't have the time or energy to be messing with separates this week.

I originally planned to belt this dress but I couldn't find a belt that I was happy with in my closet this morning. Most were the wrong shade of brown and the only one that was the 'right' shade was too big for my waist - it's more of a hip belt. Don't you hate when you just can't seem to make anything work? So I threw on a statement necklace instead and added 'tan leather belt' to my shopping list!

Tuesday, August 31, 2010

2010-08-31T19:45:00.003-04:00

Dress: The Limited

Shoes: Shii

Necklace: New York & Company

Bracelet: Express

It's a busy week at work for me - four hours of training daily Tuesday through Thursday. Ugh. Shoot me now.

I knew I wanted to be as comfortable as possible for this afternoon's session. This cotton dress was just the ticket. No need to worry about bits or pieces coming un-tucked or gaping or anything. Easy peasy. Too bad I can't wear it three days in a row!

Monday, August 30, 2010

2010-08-30T18:39:00.004-04:00

Sweater: The Limited

Tank: Old Navy

Skirt: Banana Republic

Shoes: Steve Madden

Bracelet: New York & Company

Necklace: Amy Cornwell Designs

The color of this sweater is completely not something I would normally choose. While browsing at The Limited, I was immediately drawn to the button detailing on the shoulder line and found myself automatically reaching for the other color they had available - gray. Basic. Neutral. Mix and match. Boring.

Don't get me wrong, I love gray, but I have nasty habit of always buying sweaters in gray. Or black. Or white. Because I figure they go with everything. Which kind of makes for a boring wardrobe. So I stepped out of my neutral colored rut and forced myself to grab the sea foam instead. Now that I've got it home and paired it with (what else?) gray - I'm definitely digging it!

Wednesday, August 25, 2010

2010-08-26T17:43:00.002-04:00

Top: New York & Company

Skirt: Loft

Belt: New York & Company

Necklaces: Forever 21

Shoes: ?

It's been a wee bit cooler here the last two days and you know what that means? It's almost football time!

I can't wait to sport the Volunteer Orange every weekend from now until December, so I decided to start the party a little bit early by pairing this white and brown giraffe print skirt with some orange. The bold combination is a bit out of my comfort zone, but I'm pleased with how it turned out!

Tuesday, August 24, 2010

2010-08-24T19:57:00.004-04:00

Dress: The Limited

Shoes: Baker's Shoes

Necklace: Amy Cornwell Designs

It was finally just a teeny, tiny bit cooler today - in the eighties instead of well into the nineties - but I took full advantage of it and busted out my transition-to-fall shoes. I absolutely love these shoes: suede! hardware! straps! And they are actually comfortable, no lie.

Know what else is comfortable? This dress. 100% cotton - it's like wearing pajamas to work. Except with bling. Because, you know, who doesn't want bling on their ~~pajamas~~ work clothes?

Monday, August 23, 2010

2010-08-23T20:55:00.002-04:00

Top: The Limited

Pants: The Limited

Shoes: Payless Shoes

Belt: Express

Necklace: Lia Sophia

I'd been on the hunt for the perfect pair of white slacks for most of the summer. I found these on super clearance at The Limited and had to sneak in at least one good wear before Labor Day. Truth is, I like them so much I might *gasp* wear them again after Labor Day. That old don't-wear-white-after-Labor-Day rule is so 2008. HA!

I also figured I'd get in on the jewel tone trend. Green is one of my favorite colors yet I'm pretty sure I don't have this shade anywhere else in my closet. I'm definitely digging it.

I thought the black belt and peep toes were a nice and unexpected contrast to the white pants. What do you think?

Saturday, August 21, 2010

2010-08-21T10:27:00.004-04:00

Top: The Limited

Shorts: Express

Shoes: Nine West

Bracelets: Simply Irresistible

Earrings: The Limited

It's a rainy day here, so it's just going to be sitting around the house and catching up on housework for me today.

However, a few Saturdays ago during my bloggy hiatus it was sunny and beautiful and I took full advantage with a day of shopping and lunch with a girlfriend. I couldn't let a cute top like this go to waste by never posting it! I'm a sucker for black and white prints of almost any kind. Paired with some fun silk shorts and a little bit of arm candy and the memory of this fun outfit is almost enough to brighten today's dreary forecast!

Let them eat cake buy shoes

2010-08-18T05:31:00.000-04:00

If God had wanted us to wear flats, He wouldn't have invented Manolo Blahnik.

- Alexandra Shulman

After my recent post on how many pairs of jeans the average girl owns, several people wondered how many pairs of shoes wear in the same gal's closet. I can't remember where I read it a few months ago (People Style? In Style?) but I think the average number was 27 pairs.

Once again, I am well above average. In fact, I have a rotating seasonal closet of shoes: the current season shoes stay in the master bedroom closet and the off-season shoes get moved to one of the guest room closets. At last count when we moved in three years ago, I had well over 75 pairs. While I purge regularly, the plethora of amazing choices in the last few seasons have probably pushed me into the triple digits recently.

What can I say? I just L.O.V.E. a pretty pair of shoes.

How many pairs do you own? Do you keep it in the single digits or could you give me a run for my money?

Tuesday, August 17, 2010

2010-08-17T06:54:00.000-04:00

Top: LOFT

Pants: The Limited

Bracelet: The Limited

Belt: New York & Company

Shoes: ?

We all know I'm all about the animal print and this giraffe print at LOFT was calling my name in a loud, insistent voice! I held out until it was on super clearance and I'm so glad they still had my size!

Once again, giving the belted look a try. I liked it a lot last time, but not too sure about this go round. I feel like my hips look wider in these brown slacks. But it was worth giving it a shot again and getting out of my comfort zone!

Monday, August 16, 2010

2010-08-16T18:01:00.003-04:00

Dress: The Limited

Shoes: Payless Shoes

Bracelet: LOFT

Necklace: Amy Cornwell Designs

I had a big meeting at work today with some higher ups, so I kept things simple and understated - well, as understated as you can be while wearing a fire engine red dress, I guess. I thought the dress made enough of a statement in it's own right!

Friday, August 13, 2010

2010-08-15T18:47:00.005-04:00

Top: The Limited

Pants: The Limited

Bracelet: New York & Company

Shoes: Payless Shoes

Whew-ee! I am so over this heat and humidity around here. I never thought I'd say it, but I'm darn near over wearing dresses too. I love a great dress, but in my efforts not to die of heat stroke, I feel like that's all I've been wearing lately!

Friday morning I'd ~~been too lazy to shave my legs~~ had enough and decided to wear pants - heat be damned.

Yeah, I regretted that decision about a block into my walk to the office. But whatever. This is one of my all time favorite tops and I wanted to rock it at least once before the summer is over.

See Sara Shop: Football Edition

2010-08-13T05:29:00.003-04:00

Know what time it is? Football time!

Well, not quite yet, but pretty darn close. It's pre-season time, which is close enough for me to get excited!

And close enough for me to start shopping for this season's football gear. I've already got a decent collection of Volunteer orange, but there's always room for more - especially when it's this cute!

Behold, Victoria's Secret's new line of college and NFL football gear!

They've got super cute hoodies, tees and sweats for 50+ college teams and about a dozen NFL teams. Sadly, no Indianapolis Colts gear (what's up with that, Victoria's Secret?) but they do have my Vols and when Nate found out they had Steelers gear? It was over. It pained me to say it, but that's probably the only time in my life that I will tell him I really don't want to own one of everything! HA!

Thursday, August 12, 2010

2010-08-12T19:42:00.004-04:00

Shirt: New York & Company

Skirt: LOFT

Shoes: Aldo

Necklace: LOFT

I'm not usually much of a pink girl, but I fell immediately for this purple and pink polka-dot skirt at LOFT. I rarely buy an entire outfit but I knew this skirt would be hard to match, so I bought the cardigan that they had it paired with on the mannequin. I couldn't wait to wear it, though, so I went on a little closet hunt to see what I could come up with. The answer? Not much. This skirt is definitely NOT a mix and match piece - it's the oddest shades of pink and purple. I was a little unsure of the top when I left the house this morning but just decided to go with it. Glad I did, because I got three compliments on the whole ensemble! Just goes to show that I should be more confident in my mix-and-match abilities!

Tuesday, August 10, 2010

2010-08-10T19:50:00.004-04:00

Dress: White House Black Market

Shoes: Steve Madden

Bracelet: LOFT

Ever have one of those days when you feel like a million bucks? I hope you do because every girl should have one every now and then.

I heart a really great LBD - probably explains why I own at least 10. This one is for sure my new favorite, though. I felt long, lean and powerful in this little number today. And anything that can make me feel tall is a keeper in my book.

I briefly toyed with a big necklace and then some tough studded kicks, but ultimately decided to keep it classic this time. I have a feeling I'll have plenty of opportunities to mix and match this one up in the future!

Monday, August 9, 2010

2010-08-09T18:28:00.006-04:00

Dress: LOFT

Tank: Old Navy

Shoes: Charlotte Russe

Necklace: New York & Company

Bracelet: New York & Company

Holy short skirt, Batman! I didn't realize how short this dress was until I got home and saw these pictures. I got dressed in the dark this morning because Nate was sleeping in; otherwise I probably wouldn't have worn this to work. Eek!

That said, this dress was a fabulous deal! An $80 dress for get this - $3! It was final sale for $4.99 at LOFT plus an additional Friends & Family discount on top of that. I half expected to get it to the register and find out I was getting Punked!

Friday, August 6, 2010

2010-08-06T06:25:00.000-04:00

Top: LOFT

Skirt: LOFT

Shoes: Steve Madden

Necklace: New York & Company

Bracelet: New York & Company

I feel super girlie in this outfit today. Gauzy ruffle sleeves and the bell shaped skirt make me feel like a ballerina (which I used to be, many moons ago!). I feel like twirling my way through the day today.

Since I don't wear a ton of navy, I wasn't sure how much use I'd get out of this skirt. So I was pleasantly surprised to find at least four tops to pair with it as I was getting dressed today. I'm actually kind of excited to wear it again very soon!

Wednesday, August 4, 2010

2010-08-04T20:14:00.003-04:00

Top: New York & Company

Skirt: LOFT

Shoes: Steve Madden

Bracelet: New York & Company

Necklace: The Limited

Notice how my list up there says 'Necklace'? And how I'm actually not wearing one in the picture?

Yeah, about that. When I left the house this morning I was wearing my favorite necklace (the same one I wore here last Monday). I don't usually get all crazy over jewelry, but the minute I saw that big chunky black beauty, it was love at first sight. It's my #1 go to piece in my closet, clothes included. It just seems to go with everything.

So I'm rocking it today, in a meeting with my entire department - 40 people in a conference room, including the company's CPO (my boss's boss's boss). When suddenly, there is the sound of two dozen ginormous black beads hitting the table, hitting the chair and finally hitting floor. My beautiful necklace busted in half, leaving black pieces all over the floor and some strange white powder all over my black shirt. Can you say mortified? All I eyes turned in my direction, as I frantically grabbed for what was left of my necklace and began scrounging up beads off the floor (no small feat in a pencil skirt and four inch heels). Ugh. Guess everyone knows the new girl's name now, huh?

Denim Jungle

2010-08-02T06:11:00.000-04:00

The August 2010 issue of People StyleWatch says that the average woman owns 7 pairs of denim. That was news to me - apparently I am way above average in the Denim Ownership class.

I love denim. Skinny denim. Whiskered denim. Trouser cut denim. Dark denim. Colored denim. Flap pocket denim. With heels denim. Casual denim. Evening denim.

I love it all.

Which is why I can't possibly imagine narrowing my fabulous denim closet down to just seven pairs. Que horror! I couldn't do it. Because sometimes a girl just needs options.

How many pairs of jeans do you have in your closet? Could you narrow it down to just seven?

{image found here}

Monday, August 2, 2010

2010-08-02T06:10:00.000-04:00

Dress: The Limited

Belt: New York & Company

Shoes: Baker's Shoes

Bracelets: New York & Company

Necklace: Thrifted

I have a very bad habit of always buying shoes in black. A pair will catch my eye in red, or blue, or buttery caramel, but the moment I find out they're available in black - it's over. No matter how much I like the red/blue/whatever, the practical part of me says I'll wear them way more often in black.

Which, of course, is completely not true. I own about 15 pairs of black shoes which means I wear each pair less often than all my other shoes.

These lovelies were no different. They first caught my eye in taupe, but as soon as I saw them in black, I knew the black ones were coming home with me. Lucky for me, when I went back to the store recently, the taupe ones were on sale for $15. So those came home with me too. :)

Sunday, August 1, 2010

2010-08-01T20:45:00.003-04:00

Top: The Limited

Capris: The Limited

Shoes: Payless Shoes

Bracelets: New York & Company

My love affair with four-inch heels is a symptom of my serious case of Short Girl Syndrome. I'd love to be 5'9'', with lovely long gazelle legs. Instead, I'm the shortest of all my sisters (5'4'') and somehow ended up with a long torso, which of course means there's not much leg on me. We all want what we can't have, right?

Which is why I find this t-shirt so funny. I teeny-tiny chihuahua with a lot of attitude. I'd say that's just how it should be.

Friday, July 30, 2010

2010-07-30T06:52:00.001-04:00

Dress: Ann Taylor Loft

Necklace: Express

Shoes: Sam & Libby

One thing I don't so much care for at my new job? No casual Fridays. I think tailored denim can work really well for a business casual look, but I don't get to exercise my denim muscle very often anymore. Sad.

The company released their quarterly earnings earlier in the week, which means we have a mandatory meeting with the CFO this afternoon. This is my first time meeting with any of the execs, so I wanted to be polished yet understated. And not die of heat exhaustion from covering up too much either. I thought this summer tweed dress was a nice compromise. It has enough details in the dress that I could keep the accessories low key and minimal too.

Thursday, July 29, 2010

2010-07-29T11:31:00.002-04:00

My mom got me this shirt from my favorite hometown bakery. I'd like to frame it and hang it in my office at work. The office coffee pot is, shall we say, seriously lacking in the brewing department. If you can see straight through it, you can't call it coffee.

Luckily I'm working from home after a short work trip to Ohio the last two days. All the coffee my little heart desires. And possibly a second trip to Starbucks this afternoon to use my treat receipt.

If my coffee consumption is any indication, today should be a productive day.

Monday, July 26, 2010

2010-07-29T11:24:00.004-04:00

Dress: The Limited

Necklace: The Limited

Shoes: Payless Shoes

Bracelet: New York & Company

Monday was our 7th wedding anniversary. I knew that I had a long day at work and it was questionable whether I'd make it home in time to change before dinner, so I wanted something I could feel good in from work straight through dinner at Ruth's Chris.

I fell for this black and white graphic print the moment I saw it at The Limited. It's hard to see in the head to toe shot, but the bodice has beautiful gathers right around where the statement necklace falls. No belt or unnecessary accessories needed! Gotta love a simply shift dress for summer.

See Sara Shop: Christmas in July

2010-07-26T06:38:00.002-04:00

My love affair with personalized necklaces is no secret, so it should come as no surprise that I added another piece a few weeks ago. I wear my mega washer necklace at least twice a week and I found myself wishing I had a gold one too. I couldn't think of anything in particular I wanted for our anniversary, so I talked Nate into letting me get this one for our anniversary (7 years today - WOW!).

Amy is celebrating Christmas in July over at AmyCornwell.com. Through July 31st, enter the coupon code christmasinjuly and get 20% off your purchase of $25 or more. She's added a lot of awesome stuff lately so you should definitely drop by. And make sure you tell her in the Reference section that I sent you!

Friday, July 22, 2010

2010-07-23T19:49:00.000-04:00

Dress: The Limited

Shoes: Steve Madden via Macy's

Bracelet: New York & Company

The high here today was supposed to be 97, with chance of thunderstorms (translation = HUMID AS HECK). I could have sworn I left that weather behind when I vacated the South, but apparently it hunted me down and has decided to stick around.

This dress was perfect for today - light, loose and linen. I wanted as little touching my body as possible!

I've had this in my closet for awhile but hadn't worn it because I couldn't find any shoes to go with the odd shade of blue or the slightly muted red. But canvassing my shoe collection last night, I decided these gray ones looked close enough to the blue to work. I'm not crazy about the pairing, but at least I finally got to wear this super fun dress!

Thursday, July 21, 2010

2010-07-22T18:40:00.002-04:00

Top: The Limited

Pants: The Limited

Bracelet: Express

Shoes: Steve Madden via Macy's

Anyone else wondering how the heck it got to be the end of July already? I could have sworn it was just July 4th! The summer has just flown by. Not that I'm complaining, though - I'm pretty well over summer. Bring on Autumn and cooler temperatures!

I've been wearing dresses and skirts nearly every day, simply because it's too hot to wear anything else. But my laziness got the best of me this morning and I forgot to shave my legs, which of course, meant I had to wear pants.

I probably would have been fine, except I decided to walk the two blocks to the mall at lunch. By the time I made it back to work, I could have passed out from heat exhaustion. Probably the only reason I didn't is because my hair had soaked up so much humidity it was impossible to be dehydrated. Blech.

Consider this girl schooled. Lesson learned: No more pants until it hits at least 75 degrees again.

Monday, June 19, 2010

2010-07-21T11:23:00.004-04:00

Top: Banana Republic

Pants: Express (Stella Barely Bootcut)

Bracelets: LOFT

Shoes: Guess (Gifted by my friend, Jamie!)

Hello, lovelies! Oh, how I've missed you!

I'm back in the blogging business with a bangin' new laptop and two months worth of outfit pictures.

I worked from home on Monday (thank goodness for telecommuting!) and then met some girlfriends for Ladies Night Out at my favorite restaurant, The Melting Pot. If you live in Indy, you really should check them out on the third Monday of every month - $35 for cheese, wine, salad, chocolate and a spa treatment. It's a seriously good deal!

Speaking of seriously good deals, this BR shirt was a fabulous deal and few weeks ago. I was enjoying an afternoon at our local outdoor mall when I popped into BR on a whim. I love their clothes, but have a really hard time paying their retail prices (I like a good deal, what can I say?). It must have been my lucky day because they were handing out 20/30/50% off coupons - you know, the ones where you don't know what you get until you open it? And you know that 90% of the coupons are the lowest discount possible? I totally got a 50% off one - good for that day and the following Saturday and good for sale stuff! Well, I can't resist a good deal, so I shopped my little heart out. This shirt was on sale plus my 50% off - $16 for a $60 shirt. Sequins + sales make my heart sing!

See Sara [Attempt to] Shop

2010-06-20T19:55:00.003-04:00

{Image found here}

Well, I hadn't intended to take a break from blogging but it seems our desktop computer had other plans - in the form of a complete and total hard-drive meltdown.

No idea what happened. It was working one day and then emitting an ear-piercing shrieking sound the next. One of our IT guru friends took a look at it today and said we'll be lucky if we can recover anything off of the hard-drive. Bye-bye, the last six years in pictures. Bye-bye, fifteen versions of my resume. Bye-bye, our entire i-Tunes library.

Yes, I know I should have been backing those things up on an external drive. I'm not stupid.

Nope, not stupid. Just lazy.

Which is why we have nothing backed up. Literally, nothing.

Boo hiss.

I'm currently shopping for a laptop, but there are like fifty bazillion options for laptops. I am paralyzed with indecision. Since we've suffered the loss of both our desktop and my laptop in the last month, we're replacing them with a single super laptop. I am terrified to make the wrong decision and spend a thousand bucks on something that is any less than what we want. Ugh.

Mark it down in the calendar, ladies and gentlemen, this is the one time in the history of the world that Sara does not enjoy shopping.

Ooh! Look outside! I think pigs might be flying!

Thursday, June 10, 2010

2010-06-10T18:30:00.004-04:00

Dress: Paul Smith

Shoes: Steve Madden

Belt: New York & Company

Necklace: Amy Cornwell Design

Bracelets: New York & Company

I am in lurve with the graphic print and the navy/green combo on this dress. Add in the fact that it's 100% cotton and I am in heaven.

I kept the accessories low key since the dress is quite a statement in itself. However, I couldn't resist stacking two big fat bangles on my wrist. Sometimes a girl just needs to stand out!

Wednesday, June 9, 2010

2010-06-09T17:27:00.003-04:00

Cardigan: The Limited

Tank: Old Navy

Skirt: New York & Company

Shoes:

Necklace: New York & Company

Black Bracelet: Simply Irresistible

White Bracelet: New York & Company

I managed to mildly sprain my ankle by following off the sidewalk in front of our house on Monday night. Yes, it is entirely possible to fall off a sidewalk while simply standing still - but only for those of us who are incredibly talented. I know, you're jealous of my mad klutz skillz.

I thought I was all good when I woke up yesterday, so I wore my power heels with my power suit. Um, yeah. Big mistake. My ankle was killing me by the time I got to the office yesterday morning.

So flats were the order of the day today. Can I just tell you how uncomfortable I am wearing flats when I am dressed up? As in, I had to fight the urge to stand on my tiptoes while I was taking my pictures this morning. Apparently I just can't stand to look short!

Tuesday, June 8, 2010

2010-06-08T17:27:00.003-04:00

Suit: The Limited

Tank: Banana Republic

Shoes: Steve Madden

Necklace: Simply Irresistible

Bracelets: Gifted

I had a 'Welcome to the Company' introduction with the Chief Procurement Officer for my new company today, so of course I wanted to dress to impress. It was a fabulous meeting and if he's really believes half of what he espouses, he and I will get along famously.

I love the unexpected color combination in this tweed suit. It's totally outside of my normal comfort zone but I think it's a fun way to get dressed up when necessary. My closet is full of basic black suiting pieces, so it's nice to look in that section and see a bit of color now!

Monday, June 7, 2010

2010-06-07T17:36:00.003-04:00

Sweater: The Limited

Pants: Banana Republic

Shoes: Jessica Simpson

Necklace: Gifted

Bracelet: Lia Sophia

I had new employee orientation for the first four hours of the day today so I wanted to make sure that I was comfortable enough to sit through hours of boring benefits and corporate values talk.

I've been looking for dove gray slacks for a couple of weeks now and finally found these at Banana Republic over the weekend. The color is exactly what I was looking for, they are fully lined, they didn't need to be hemmed, and they were on sale PLUS I had an extra 50% off coupon. Complete perfection for $29.99. So perfect, in fact, that I bought them in black too!

Saturday, June 5, 2010

2010-06-06T08:27:00.000-04:00

Top: New York & Company

Shorts: The Limited

Shoes: Nine West

Bracelet: New York & Company

It was hot and humid yesterday, with the threat of rain all day - perfect day for getting my (frizzy, curl-prone) hair did, right? WRONG!

I had an appointment for a quick trim at Rain Salon and then did a little shopping at the outdoor mall there before I met Nate for a late afternoon showing of Get Him to the Greek.

My outfit had to work for all three activities: no collar and something washable for the haircut, something easy to change in/out of for shopping and cute enough for a date with my main man. A little bling on top with some cute shorts fit the bill perfectly.