The 70/30 Rule

I have been evaluating my closet a lot lately. In December, I cleaned out my closet and got rid of items that I no longer wore or that no longer fit. I had bags upon bags of clothes. In hindsight, I should have put some of those items up on Poshmark and made some cash, but I was happy to donate it all. It really got me thinking though...when I clean out my closet those couple of times per year, I shouldn't have bags upon bags of things to get rid of.  Even though I have gotten better at shopping for myself and focusing more on classic and timeless items, I guess I still have some work to do.

On Monday, I shared with you my price per wear tip (see post here) for when you're faced with the "should I buy this?" dilemma (this applies to both the splurge and the steal, by the way).  Another rule I am trying to apply to my own closet is the 70/30 rule: 70% of your closet should be classic pieces and 30% should be trendy pieces. Try to save on trendy pieces because they have a short closet lifespan. Purchase these items for less at H&M, Target, Forever 21, Old Navy, Asos and Etsy (for jewelry). Splurge a little or go designer on classic pieces such as handbags, coats/blazers, regular denim, timeless sweaters, certain shoes and certain pieces of jewelry. My favorite places to splurge on classic pieces are J.Crew, Tory Burch, Kate Spade, Michael Kors, and Marc Jacobs. I also like to incorporate more affordable, yet still classic pieces from places like Loft, Banana Republic and Gap. Follow the sales, and you can most always get the classic investment pieces you want at a discount. And guess what? You will find that you wear those pieces the most and longer, bringing the price per wear down considerably and getting you the most bang for your buck!  I love how these rules interact!

Here are some of my favorite classic pieces worth the splurge:

 J.Crew Schoolboy Blazer / Banana Republic Fitted Shirt / J.Crew Tippi Sweater / J.Crew Pearl Necklace / J.Crew Pencil Skirt / Banana Republic Trench Coat / Tory Burch Boots / Kate Spade Gold Coast Meadow / Tory Burch Caroline Flats / Tory Burch Shelby Ballet Flat / Marc by Marc Jacobs Watch / Tory Burch Robinson Tote / J.Crew Pearl Studs

I still have some work to do to apply the 70/30 rule to my closet, but I think I am getting there. I try to be very conscious of this rule when shopping, while also applying the price per wear tactic. If only 30% of your closet consists of trendy items, then you're getting rid of less and saving money! Plus, you also have some great classic pieces that will stand the test of time. Pretty ideal for the girl on a budget, if you ask me.

What about you? Do you think your closet meets the 70/30 rule? Do you think you'll try to apply it? Let me know!

Trendsday Wednesday: Ocean Blues & Greens

It's Trendsday Wednesday! Hope everyone is having a good week so far. Unfortunately, Trendsday Wednesday will be a bit short this week, as I have been under the weather. I thought I would brighten up the day, though, with some ocean blues and greens! Can't you just feel the ocean breeze now? I wish!!

Oceanic shades are always a favorite in spring and summer, and this year is no exception. Blue and green are hot spring colors that are fresh and great for every day attire! There is just something about these shades that make me feel happier when I wear them. They are fun and easy to mix and match. It's also a bonus that they look great on everyone!

Forever 21 Blouse / Old Navy Skinny Jeans (in Baby Blue) / Forever 21 Pumps (in Mint or Blue) /  

Tory Burch Robinson Convertible Crossbody / Banana Republic Earrings / Forever 21 Cuff

I am obsessed with the blouse from Forever 21! Obviously prints are in, so it's a great way to incorporate that trend into your wardrobe at an affordable price (only $19.80!). And believe it or not, it's an extremely versatile piece. Aside from the above, you can also pair it with mint skinnies, nude flats and a denim jacket for every day wear, or pair it with a pencil skirt and pumps for work - just to name a couple options.

Do you want to know the best thing about the items above? Excluding the Tory Burch bag, you can currently get the entire look for only $98!! (Denim is currently on sale at Old Navy and Banana Republic is offering 30% off your purchase online only until February 27 - use code BRSHOP30 and get those earrings!) Amazing, right?! 

P.S. Loving that Tory Burch bag too, and I'm a firm believer that a girl has to splurge on a handbag every once in awhile ;)

The J.Crew Look for Less, Part Three

Happy Monday! I hope everyone had a great weekend! I have had a few requests for more J.Crew Look for Less posts and more Etsy finds, so this post will feature a little of each.  Going forward, I plan to make these once per month features. If you have not seen Part 1 and Part 2, be sure to check them out! I've also included one of my new go-to budget shopping tips below for when you are faced with the splurge vs. steal dilemma.

J.Crew Liberty Perfect Shirt in Margaret Annie Floral / Old Navy Lightweight Patterned Shirt

These two shirts are very, very similar in pattern and in color.  The big difference between the two is the PRICE. At the time of this post, the Old Navy shirt costs 84% less than the J.Crew version. Now, I know the J.Crew shirt is higher quality, but the quality of the Old Navy shirt is nice as well. The colors are vibrant, and the weight of the cotton is decent and not flimsy. If you're still undecided, one of my go-to budget shopping tips is to determine the price per wear. Think about how often you will wear the item. For instance, if the $150 J.Crew shirt is worn 20 times, then its price per wear is $7.50, which is pretty high. Is it worth it? Determining the price per wear is a new tactic for me. I think it's important to consider because we often focus only on the price of an item, which leads to impulse purchases because something "is such a good deal" or "so cheap." Our judgment is often clouded, and we don't consider how often we will actually wear the item, which then results in a closet filled with clothes barely worn. Been there, done that. For me, I know I wouldn't wear the J.Crew shirt enough to make the purchase worth it. I also know I'd probably layer it with sweaters and blazers, so purchasing the Old Navy version would work for me. 

Next up - I am sure many of you have seen the J.Crew pavé heart bracelet. A couple of weeks ago, reader Victoria B. emailed me with a version she found on Etsy for significantly less. Such a great find, so of course I wanted to blog about it! Shortly after that, my friend and fellow blogger, Renee at Style with a Story, posted a photo on Instagram of her look for less pavé heart bracelet that she recently purchased on Etsy for $100 less than the J.Crew version! As you know, I love to find a budget-friendly solution, and now, I've found two! Renee was kind enough to provide us with a review of her bracelet - see below.

(Left) J.Crew Pavé Heart Bracelet (photo credit: J.Crew)
(Right) HauteandSoul1 Gold Pavé Heart Bracelet via Etsy (photo credit: Instagram @reneestern)

"I was thrilled to receive my J.Crew look-a-like from the Etsy shop Haute and Soul1. It has five beautifully crafted pavé hearts on a chain link bracelet. The sparkles will be sure to catch everyone's eye!  It also includes a chain extender, so you can fit it to your wrist no matter the size. If you'd like the J.Crew look, but are living on a budget, this is the perfect solution!" --Renee, Style with a Story

You can check out Victoria's similar find at Apple of My Eye Jewelry on Etsy. Also, don't forget to check out Renee's blog, Style with a Story! It is one of my daily reads, and Renee has great style! Thank you, Renee, for the review!

What do you think of the looks for less above? Will you consider the price per wear when you're shopping?  It really works if you apply it. I challenge you to determine what your price per wear goal is and see if you can stick to it. Then, come back and tell me how it's going!

Have a great start to the week!

My Weekend Uniform

Happy Friday, everyone! I don't know about you, but I am definitely ready for the weekend! It has been such a long week! I am ready to ditch the business casual and RELAX! On the weekends, I pretty much live in chambray. I am obsessed. It is just so comfortable and can be mixed and matched in so many different ways. I love that it is easy to throw on and style. It also transitions well into every season. It is a must have piece for your wardrobe. I think that every single time I put it on, I style it a little differently. Don't you just love when you find an item like that?

Unfortunately, winter is in full blast here in Michigan, and we are covered in snow, AGAIN. I am ready to ditch the boots, but it looks like I'll living in my Hunters, again, this weekend. At least I get to wear my cozy, sweater socks, though! My weekend uniform has definitely become some sort of combination of chambray and Hunter boots.  Here are a couple ways I like to style my weekend look, featuring chambray:

J.Crew Chambray Shirt (see more chambray options here) / LOFT Ponte Knit Pants / Free People Sweater Socks / Hunter Boots / Target Merona Crossbody / J.Crew Factory Crystal Necklace / Target Fish Bangle / Gigglosophy Pave Link Bracelet and Spike Bracelet / Forever 21 Polka Dot Sweater and Heart Chain Necklace / ASOS Scallop Crossbody / Nordstrom Leather Wrap Bracelet / Kenneth Cole Gold Flats 

I am excited to transition my chambray weekend look into spring. One way I will mix it up is to add the polka dot chambray shirt to my wardrobe.  Here is a little spring inspiration featuring chambray:

J.Crew Polka Dot Chambray / LOFT Color Pop Skinny Jeans and Pink Stone Necklace /  Target Merona Tote / Marc by Marc Jacobs Watch / Gap Pointy Toed Flats / J.Crew Chambray Shirt / J.Crew Factory Linen Cotton Mini / FOREVER 21 Lacquered Nautical Studs / Ray Ban Sunglasses / J.Crew Factory Gold Link Bracelet / Marc by Marc Jacobs Watch / Target Merona Canvas Wedges

Although it's busy season for us accountants, Justin and I are able to get away this weekend and go to Chicago to visit my best friend, Stacey. I am looking forward to spending time in one of my favorite cities with my best friend and just having a good time. I will say that I had planned different outfits for the weekend until I found out there was a forecasted snowstorm. Ugh, I am SO ready for spring! All these cute clothes are such a tease right now! I do know that chambray will continue to be a part of my weekend uniform into spring.

What about you?  Do you have a weekend uniform?

Have a Great Weekend!

P.S. I have teamed up with some fashion bloggers, and we have made a group Pinterest board! Several different fashion bloggers will be pinning to it, so there will be a lot of great style advice all in one! Click here to follow us! More fun collaboration to come! :)

The Luxe Craving Andante Necklace

A couple of weeks ago I won my first blog giveaway! Stephanie from Inherited Jeans was giving away this stunning Andante necklace from Luxe Craving. As soon as I saw it, I knew I had to have it. The necklace is absolutely gorgeous and is a perfect match to a previous J.Crew piece. What I also love about it is that at only $40, it is affordable for the average girl living on a budget. One of the requirements to enter the giveaway was to tell Stephanie how you would style the necklace. It was easy to come up with many different ways to style this necklace. For my submission, I ended up going with a simple and casual look - a basic white tee with bright colored denim. I wanted to let the necklace to do the talking.

Needless to say, I was thrilled when my package arrived! I love this necklace so much already that I want to purchase it in the mint color as well (it also comes in red)! Even though the necklace is a little "blingy", it very versatile and can easily be incorporated in your everyday attire. Here are a few of the ways I plan to style this necklace in my everyday casual and work attire, including the look that I envisioned during the giveaway:

Outfit #1: 

J.Crew Chambray Shirt (see similar chambray options in this post) / Loft Floral Skirt / 

Target Merona Yellow Chiffon Crossbody / J.Crew Gold Bangle Set / J.Crew Emery Flat 

Outfit #2:

 J.Crew Factory Stripe Boatneck Tee (similar at JCPenney) / Gap Skinny Mini Skimmer Khakis / 

Target Le Mer Triple Wrap Watch / Tory Burch Caroline Flat 

Outfit #3: 

Target Mossimo Denim Jacket / Target Merona V-Neck Tee / Rebecca Minkoff Floral Mini MAC  / 

 Loft Color Pop Skinny Jeans / J.Crew Factory Classic Crystal Bracelet / 

Gap Printed Pointy Toe Flats (similar at Target and Madewell)

Outfit #1: 
J.Crew Factory Tailored Boy Blazer / J.Crew Factory Polka Dot Popover (similar at Forever 21) / Loft Marisa Tapered Straight Leg Pants  /
Target Mossimo Flap Satchel Bag / Nine West Pumps / Marc by Marc Jacobs Henry Watch
Outfit #2:
Banana Republic Fitted Shirt / J.Crew Factory Frayed Tweed Jacket / BR Monogram Pleated Crop / Zara Everyday Shopper Tote  / 
Michael Kors Twist Runway Watch / Asos Scala High Heels 

It was hard to narrow down the ways that I could style this necklace! If you've been reading my blog or following me on Instagram, you probably know that I like to have a balance between affordable pieces and expensive pieces in my everyday look. I accomplish this with a good watch, a nice pair of shoes, a classic blazer or a handbag. I usually have one to two expensive pieces in my attire and then offset that with more affordable pieces.  This is what I have done with my outfits above.  I think the balance is important in creating a quality look without breaking the bank. There are certain pieces that are worth the investment and then others that are not.  The balance between the two creates a look that appears to be more high end than it really may be. Also, if you've been following me, you know that I very rarely buy items at full price, which is a key strategy for the budget fashionista in achieving any desired look for less.  The Luxe Craving Andante necklace is one of those pieces that looks much more expensive than it really is, and I am excited to incorporate it into my everyday attire.  

Thank you to Stephanie and Luxe Craving for the amazing giveaway!

How would you style the Andante necklace?

Trendsday Wednesday: Put a Bow on It (for Less)!

Over the weekend, Justin and I went to Kohl's because we had a 30% off coupon to take advantage of. Justin is always able to find fantastic deals at Kohl's. Me, not nearly as much. However, this past weekend I did walk away with a couple of items. One of them being this bow sweater that I wore on Monday.

Outfit photo via my Instagram
Elle Lace Wool Sweater via Kohl's

I found this sweater by chance on the clearance rack, and I am obsessed with it. It was already 70% off, and then with my additional 30% off, I took this sweater home for only $10.50! I know that I will only get a little bit of wear out of it before spring, but it is super cute and a total J. Crew look for less. At the price, I couldn't pass it up. Kohl's website has it listed for $20 (still a steal), but it is $15 in the store. They also have an oatmeal color that wasn't in my store. I probably would have bought both!

Long story short, this sweater inspired me to do a little "Trendsday Wednesday" post featuring the ever-popular bow. Who do you think of when you think of the bow? Well, Kate Spade, of course! Oh, how I love Kate Spade! The new spring arrivals do not disappoint and are all about the well-placed bow. No one does the bow better than Kate. I had some fun online and found some Kate Spade-insprired bow pieces to help you achieve the look for less.

Kate Spade Bow Terrace Bradshaw / ASOS Bow Smart Bag / ALDO bow handbag/ Kate Spade Bow Shoppe studs / 

Forever 21 bow studs / Kate Spade Black Tie Optional Necklace / ASOS Bow Link Necklace / ASOS Bow Necklace 

I also love to keep a look out on sites like Gilt and Rue La La for Kate Spade items. Last year, I scored these All Wrapped Up Pavé Stud earrings and the matching ring for 50% off on Rue La La. But, my favorite bow ring of all only cost me $17.99! My last piece of bow inspiration for you is the Hello Fab Diamonds & Bow Ring! Seriously, I love this ring, and the price is fantastic! It's the perfect little bow accent for your everyday look.

Well-placed bows are stealing the spotlight this spring, but they are also classic and timeless. I love that there are so many ways to incorporate a bow into our looks.  The bow can be prim and proper or it can also be elegantly edgy. How many different ways will you incorporate the well-placed bow into your looks this spring?

Six Months Since We Said, "I Do"

February 18 was our six month wedding anniversary! I cannot believe it has already been six months! It seems like yesterday that Justin proposed in Mexico, and now, we are already half way to our first anniversary! We didn't even finalize our wedding album until a few weeks ago. I know, slackers...but I am telling you, time flies when you're having fun! I am in LOVE with our wedding album. It is gorgeous! We should be getting it any day now, along with a CD of our images, and I cannot wait to flip through it and re-live the day (and share more photos). Investing in a great photographer was one of the best decisions we made planning the wedding - it is not a place you want to pinch some pennies! In fact, we actually switched our photographer a few months before our wedding, and I am so happy we did. There are so many other places in a wedding budget that are flexible, but photography is just not one of them. The day flies by so fast, and you are left with amazing memories. I am so glad I have photos of those memories that I absolutely love.

Our wedding day was everything we dreamed it to be. It was the perfect August day - clear blue skies and 75 degrees. Our reception was held at the beautiful and historic Dearborn Inn, founded by Henry Ford.  We danced the night away with family and friends to a fantastic band, and our beloved Michigan State University mascot, Sparty, surprised our guests! The food was delicious, the decor was perfect and everything fell right into place - thanks to our amazing vendors. We had FUN! It was the perfect, storybook wedding. The best part of all, though, was marrying my best friend.

Given that it is a Monday and still "busy season" for us accountants, we did not do much to celebrate the half way mark. We just spent time together at home relaxing with some wine and our pup, Charlie, which was pretty much the best way to spend it.

Happy Six Month Anniversary to the Best Husband in the World!

All Things Black and White

I have always been a black and white girl. Black and white is a classic and timeless color combination. I am loving that it is a very present trend for spring. I am so excited to pair black and white with pops of color, especially with some of the coral and mint purchases that I featured in a recent blog post.  I thought I would share some of my recent black and white purchases, as well as some other items I am currently coveting.  I purchased all of the items below (except those from Target) at 35%-50% off. Sales and promos pop up so often that I rarely find a reason to pay full price for something! I also love how the Loft and Banana Republic items below transition so well between work attire and casual wear. I am imagining so many different outfit combinations, so I know I will get my money's worth!

Recent Purchases

{1} Loft - Corded Dobby Striped Blazer (in Moonlight Ivory) - purchased 50% off
{2} Target Mossimo Flap Satchel Handbag and Marc by Marc Jacobs sunglasses 
{3} Banana Republic Chevron Silk Buttoned Tank - purchased 35% off
{4} Banana Republic Printed Peplum Top - purchased 35% off
{5} Target Zebra Bangle (current in stores, not available online)
{6} Banana Republic Belted Graphic Pencil Skirt - purchased 35% off

Currently Coveting

{1} Loft Petra Floral Print Pumps {2} Ann Taylor Dotted Mesh Tee {3} Target Mossimo Blazer
{4} Forever 21 Grid Pattern Georgette Shirt {5} Prabal Gurung for Target Cardigan in Meet the Parents Print
{6} Prabal Gurung for Target Ankle Strap Pump

And, I also want to mention that I am OBSESSED with these Love 21 pants that fellow blogger Emily Gemma, from The Sweetest Thing, has on!! Serious swooning going on over here. I am so sad they are not on the Forever 21 website. I need these pants in my life, so I will have to track them down at a store.  I should also mention that they are only $22 - such a steal!! Thank you, Emily, for sharing these amazing pants!

If you're interested in any of the above - Loft currently has a 30% off EVERYTHING sale going on (enter code ENJOY30 at checkout). Banana Republic is offering 30% off your purchase of $150 or more (online only - use code BRTAKE30) and 40% off one full-price item (in store only), and Ann Taylor has 30% off select full-price styles right now (use code SHOPCHIC).

How will you style the black and white trend this spring?

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Friday Finds - Target Edition

It's Friday, and I'm in love...with TARGET! 

Seriously, can we talk about how AH-MAZING Target has been lately?! I have always loved Target, but I feel like they have really stepped up their game lately. Both of the Targets near me are under a major renovation, so I know I am not even experiencing the FULL amazing-ness that is Target right now. I cannot wait see the renovated stores! When I decided to do a "Friday Finds" with Target, there was so much I wanted to talk about. Such as, the home decor and the Threshold line - IN LOVE! And of course, there is also the new Prabal Gurung line that everyone is going crazy for. But, I decided to focus this post on Target handbags. I have purchased three over the past couple of months, and I am obsessed with them! If you follow me on Instagram, you've probably caught a glimpse. I am finding myself carrying them daily and choosing them over my designer handbags - crazy! I am really loving their options right now. The quality is proving to be decent, and of course, they are affordable! When people see these bags, they cannot believe they are from Target! I love mixing affordable pieces in my looks, and it's even better when the affordable pieces look more expensive than they really are. 

Crossbodies and Clutches

Top (left to right): Merona Turnkey Crossbody in Pink, Yellow, Green and Blue
Center (left to right): Merona Blue Multi Floral Pouch Wristlet and Mossimo Envelope Handbag
Bottom (left to right): Mossimo Brown Cogniac Neon Envelope Clutch, Mossimo Whipstitch Stachel Bag,
Xhilaration Neon Chain Mini Crossbody and Merona Stripe Pouch Wristlet - Coral

Totes and Satchels

Top (left to right): Mossimo Flap Satchel // Merona Turnlock Satchel // Merona Floral Mega Tote
Bottom (left to right):  Merona Floral Laptop Tote // Merona Turnlock Satchel (coral in person)
Merona Floral Laptop Tote // Merona Tassel Satchel 

By the way, I think many of these bags look even better in person than they do online. I have purchased the Mossimo Flap Satchel (which is totally a Celine Boston Tote look for less), the Merona Tassel Satchel in black (which is now my go-to black bag over my more expensive versions), and the Merona Turnkey Crossbody in green (which is a similar style to the J.Crew Factory Whittier purse). I am loving them all! I want everything above, but I am really eyeing the Merona Turnlock Satchel in the red/coral color and the Merona Turnkey Crossbody in pink right now. Target is a dangerous place. Everything is so affordable and cute, but even affordable and cute can quickly add up and become a splurge! Which are your favorites?

Have a Great Weekend!

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Let's Make a Statement (for Less)!

I used to be afraid of accessories. I had no idea how to wear them. Now, I cannot get enough of them, and I strongly believe that they are the most important detail in putting together an outfit. I am especially loving statement necklaces. They are the perfect way to add some sparkle and flair to an otherwise simple outfit. It almost makes putting together an outfit easier. Throw on something basic and add a statement necklace, and you automatically look more put together and stylish. 

The {big} challenge with statement necklaces is the cost. They tend to be on the more expensive side, especially when your heart loves the J.Crew ones as much as I do (still hoping this beauty is my Valentine's Day or birthday gift). I am always on the hunt for something more affordable, so I thought I would share some statement necklaces I have found for $40 or less. Ok, so maybe #1 and #3 are technically $44, but they were too pretty to pass up, so I rounded down. It was definitely harder than I thought it would be, as my original goal was $30 or less! True statement necklaces that are budget-friendly appear to be a rarity! 

{1} Piperlime - $44 {2} Piperlime - $34 {3} Piperlime - $44
{4} Forever 21 - $12.80 {5} Etsy - $40 {6} The Limited - $32.90
{7} Nordstrom - $32 {8} Luxe Craving - $40 {9} Baublebar - $38

We also cannot forget the ever popular bubble necklace for a statement piece. My go-to for budget-friendly bubble necklaces is featured in the J.Crew Look for Less, Part One post!

I definitely think it is important to keep your look simple and sleek when you are wearing a statement necklace. I like to let the necklace make the statement.  It is called a "statement" necklace, after all. I love that you can style it with something as casual as chambray or a t-shirt to something like a little black dress. When I wear a statement necklace, I keep all other accessories to a minimum. I don't wear earrings, and depending on how much of a "statement" I am making, I usually just wear a watch. I love a stacked wrist about as much as I love the statement necklace, but together they are too much, in my opinion.  What do you think? How do you include a statement necklace in your look?

Happy Valentine's Day! Hope you have a wonderful day!

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Just a little festive for Valentine's Day

I have never been one to really "plan" a special outfit for Valentine's Day. I would always wear something cute, of course, but never anything purposely "themed."  Even this year, I thought to myself, "I don't have anything festive to wear unless I go shopping." It didn't make sense for me to go spend money on an outfit just for Valentine's Day. Plus, I just don't get that into it.  The hubby and I celebrate it, but we never do anything too over the top.  However, our six month wedding anniversary falls on February 18, so we will celebrate both occasions by doing something special this weekend.

As I was browsing my closet recently, I realized that I could put together multiple cute and festive outfits with items I already had.  So, I went shopping in my closet and decided to share my favorites.  Since Valentine's Day falls on a Thursday this year, I put together two "work to night" options using the same blouse. Depending on how conservative your workplace is, you could always throw a black blazer over the blouse during the day and remove for night, as I plan to do. I also put together two fun weekend options using the same top. None of these outfits scream Valentine's Day, so they are definitely repeatable, which is important to me. Plus, I found an excuse to wear my coral denim pre-spring! So, go shopping in your closet - I'm sure you have multiple options too! I will admit - it is fun to get a little festive!

Work to Night Options

Work to Night Outfit {1} 
Pants - Ann Taylor on sale (or loving the polka dots at Forever 21); Blouse - J.Crew (similar at J.Crew Factory on sale or Forever 21);
Shoes - Banana Republic (similar at Banana Republic - 25% off, at Zappos or clearance at Target);
Necklaces - J.Crew; Bag - Marc by Marc Jacobs (save on similar at Asos); Bracelet - Gigglosophy via Etsy;
Watch - Marc by Marc Jacobs via Nordstrom (similar splurge at Piperlime, save at Macy's or steal at Target)

Work to Night Outfit {2} 
Skirt - Loft (currently 40% off or similar on clearance at Target); Tights - Ann Taylor (currently 40% off or similar at Target);
Clutch - The Limited (similar at Asos); Same blouse, shoes and accessories as #1

Weekend Options

Weekend Outfit {1} 
Colored Denim - Loft; Top - J.Crew (purchased on super final sale for $20, original $128); Shoes - Banana Republic (above); Bag - Marc by Marc Jacobs (above); Bracelets - Bangle from Target (black and gold studded found in store, but similar at Target here), Gold Chain Link from J.Crew Factory (on sale) and Spike from Gigglosophy via Etsy; Watch - Marc by Marc Jacobs (above)

Weekend Outfit {2} 
Velvet Pants - Ann Taylor (on sale); Shoes - Target (found in store on clearance for only $10!);
Clutch - The Limited (above); Same top and accessories as #1

Like I said, I am not one to get too into Valentine's Day, but having some fun outfits planned does make me more excited. What about you? Do you get really into it or are you more low key?  What are you wearing for Valentine's Day?

<3 HAPPY VALENTINE'S DAY! <3

P.S. I have created a new Facebook page as another option to get updates to the blog! 

You can also access it using the icon on the top right of the page.

Recent Purchases and Introducing "The Shelf"

I have been stocking up for spring over the past couple of months (it's amazing how soon we start buying for spring) and noticed that my purchases seem to mostly fall within two color combinations: coral/mint and black/white. These colors are going to be undeniably popular for the upcoming season, but I have always gravitated towards coral and black and white, so it is no surprise that my spring wardrobe will feature these colors. Mint is a new color for me, but, like many others, I cannot get enough of it! I thought I would share with you some of my recent coral and mint purchases, as well as some other items I am loving and my new favorite online shopping tool that will help you save money. Yes, you read correctly - shopping tool and saving money in the same sentence! (Spoiler Alert!! There are a couple J.Crew final sale jewelry steals featured at the end of the post that will definitely be gone fast - don't miss them!!)

I got the majority of my recent purchases at 35% off or more. Of course, I get the emails from my favorite places, so I know when there are sales, but the challenge has always been finding all of the items I was interested once a great sale started. Then, I found The Shelf. The Shelf is one of those things that once you hear about it, you think, why didn't I think of that? It is a brilliant idea, really, but also such a simple concept. You tell The Shelf what items you want and what price you want to get them at, and it takes care of the rest. You can install a "Shelf-it" button on your browser to bookmark items to your "shelf" from any website, just like Pinterest, to keep track of things you like. The Shelf will provide you with item stats like current price, amount of savings, promo codes, and even a historical price chart. Even better, you can set up price alerts for them items you want at the price you are willing to pay. Maybe you don't want to get that crazy, so you can also just use The Shelf as a place to view all running promotions (filter by stores you care about) or just save all the items you like in one place.  You can also share your shelves with friends and family - perfect for birthday and Christmas gifts. Brilliant, right? Such a great tool for the budget fashionista!

Anyway, onto some of my recent purchases!

Recent Purchases - Coral and Mint

{1} Loft - Pink Flower Earrings - purchased 50% off
{2} Loft - Color Pop Super Skinny Jeans (in coral flame & sea glass) - purchased 50% off
and Target - Merona Lattice Print wallet (mint color sold in stores, not available online)
{3} J.Crew Factory Printed Pencil Skirt - vibrant coral print in store only - currently on sale for $30!
{4} Loft - Marisa Straight Leg Pants in Loft Scuba (in coral reef) - currently only $26.93!! (extra 40% off taken in cart)
{5} Old Navy Lightweight Graphic Sweater - purchased 20% off

Coral and Mint Items Currently on My Shelf

{1} Gap Two-tone Canvas Tote, {2} Gap Lasercut Belt, {3} Old Navy Tab-sleeve Tee Dress
{4} Kohl's Simply Vera Vera Wang Jet Simulated Crystal Drop Earrings
{5} J.Crew Factory Layered Bright Bead Necklace, {6} Piperlime Snake Wrap Bangle (on sale!!)
{7} Target Merona Mali Tassel Flat, {8} Forever 21 Essential Striped Georgette Shirt
{9} Target Xhilaration Mint Small Quilted Crossbody

J.Crew Final Sale Finds - Additional 30% off with Code STYLE30!

J.Crew Final Sale items are an additional 30% off right now with the code STYLE30.  I found these jewelry items, which are bound to go fast.  For J.Crew jewelry, these items are a steal! Especially the necklace.  Don't miss out!

{1} J.Crew Candy Shop Necklace - $69.99 with extra 30% off (original price $195)

 {2} J.Crew Enameled Frog Bracelet - $54.60 with extra 30% off (original price $98)

This was a pretty heavy post! I think I am loving coral and mint even more now! Now, if only spring could get here!  

Don't forget to check out The Shelf and watch for sales and promo codes to get the items you want and save money! That's what I am going to do!

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Old Navy 20% Off Ends Today!

I had to put together a quick evening blog post, because Old Navy's in store and online 20% off sale ends tonight.  Of course, there will likely be another sale in the near future, but some items caught my eye today that I thought people might be interested in snagging online tonight while the sale is still on.  Some of these items are already marked down, so an additional 20% off makes them a steal! To redeem online, just enter the code ONBIG20 at checkout.

The Classic Gingham Shirt - On sale for $19.95!

In a variety of colors and similar to its more expensive J.Crew Factory relatives, the Old Navy gingham shirt is a great budget buy at $19.95! Stock up on a couple of colors, if you wish! Gingham is trending, but it is also classic and transitions well between all seasons.

Already Marked Down Items at an Additional 20% Off

The items below are already marked down, so an additional 20% off makes a couple of these items over 50% off! They are all great looks for less! If you're bold enough for the animal print denim, then these Rockstar skinny jeans are a steal! If not, then you can't go wrong with a comfy, lightweight sweater perfect for the transition to spring!

{1} Striped Boat Neck Top - $8.40 with the additional 20% off!
(compare to the J.Crew Factory coloblocked stripe boatneck tee for $39.50)
{2} Polka Dot Button Front Chiffon Top - $14 with the additional 20% off !
{3} The Rockstar Animal Print Jean - $10.38 with the additional 20% off!
{4} Lightweight Button-Shoulder Sweater - $16 with the additional 20% off!

Of course, don't forget about the polka dot skinny jeans I had on in this morning's post! And how cute is this little gem of a dress?! I found it last minute after I had all the photos set up.  Love the heart print - so Anthropologie, but only $20 with the additional 20% off!

Hope some of you are able to get some steals tonight! Come back and tell me what you bought!
Happy Monday!

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