The Look for Less: Kate Spade Grove Court Maise

Kate Spade vs. Target

If there is one thing you know about Everyday Fashion & Finance, you know we love a good look for less! This Target Merona Mini Satchel is pretty spot on compared to the Kate Spade Grove Court Maise. At only $33, you're saving $315 (or approximately 91%) while achieving the same exact look. Now, of course, we cannot argue against the quality of a Kate Spade handbag vs. a Target handbag, and I am a firm believer in splurging on a nice, classic bag. However, I wouldn't splurge on this one. I have many Target bags, and I have found the Merona brand to be of decent quality. For something that is not real leather, the material is usually pretty soft and well-constructed. So, if you're like me, and don't want to spend the extra $300, the Target Merona Mini Satchel is an excellent option!

Spring Rain Boots at Every Price Point

I have lived in my Hunter boots this winter because there has just been SO MUCH SNOW. They may not be the warmest boot, but they are hands down the best for those gross, wet days. I purchased the Original Tall Gloss in black three years ago. I decided to be practical with the classic black because at the time, I still wasn't 100% sure about purchasing a $140 pair of rain boots. Well, my Hunter boots have turned out to be one of my all-time best purchases. They are a staple in my closet. Over the last three years, the price per wear has gotten to be pretty low. I have been wanting to get a second pair in a fun bright color for some time now, but haven't been able to pull the trigger. Do I buy another pair of Hunters? Or do I go for a look for less? With spring approaching, I know that I definitely want to get a new pair. After all, April showers bring May flowers! I have rounded up a few options at every price point that are perfect for spring.

Under $150: 1, 2, 3, 4 | Under $100: 1, 2, 3, 4 | Under $50: 1, 2, 3, 4, 5

While I have my eye on a new pair of Hunters, Joules has great mid-range options that are good quality boots. But, let's talk about the Target options - they are super cute and about $100 less than a pair of Hunters! That is pretty hard to ignore. I especially love the mint polka dot pair. And how about that polka dot pair from DSW? While I thought I wanted a bright color, there is just something about navy and polka dots that I can't resist!

Another way to keep the cost down is to consider purchasing in kids size, if you are able. Hunter Big Kid rain boots are only $75 compared to $130-140 for a women's pair. I have heard that these are a better fit for those who are petite. If I go with another pair of Hunters, I will try them in the Big Kid size. Now, if only I could decide which color! I am kicking myself for not snatching up the mint or the coral last year. I have my eye on the Crimson Pink, but they appear to be few and far between. I am also loving the Lipstick Pink and Jade.

While we're on the topic of Hunters, I have also heard great things about the Hunter Tour Packable Rain Boot. They are much lighter than the original rain boot, and I am told they are more comfortable. They don't come in as many colors, but they are another great option to consider! My favorite is the yellow!

Are rain boots a closet must-have for you? I'd love to hear which pair you'd choose!

P.S. Congratulations to Caroline and Danielle! You are the winners of the Pure Stunning giveaway! Caroline will receive a $50 shop credit and Danielle will receive a $25 shop credit! Watch your email for details! Thank you to everyone who entered the giveaway!

The Look for Less: D'Orsay Flats

It's been far too long since I have done one of my trademark "Look for Less" posts. So, to celebrate the return, I've compiled one of my most extensive yet. I am really loving d'orsay flats these days, and not just because they share their name with one of my favorite museums in Paris, but also because they are simple, yet chic, and flattering on the foot. The d'Orsay flat is an elegant twist on the essential flat. The cutout silhouette makes it kind of like a cross between a flat and a sandal. With the pointed toe, they are versatile enough to bring an understated polish to your everyday look. I love that you can wear them with boyfriend jeans and with a dress for date night. They are also absolutely perfect if you work in an office which requires closed toe shoes, but you still want to wear something cute and fun. While I definitely swoon over those of Jenni Kayne, Manolo Blahnik and Tory Burch, they start at close to $300. So, I have rounded up several stunning look for less options, ensuring stylish flats for all!

Row 1: Splurge, Save, Steal | Row 2: Splurge, Save, Steal | Row 3:  Splurge, Save, Steal
Row 4: Splurge, Save, Steal | Row 5: Splurge, Save, Steal | Row 6: Splurge, Save, Steal



Shop More Budget-Friendly Options:

What do you think of the d'orsay flat? Which is your favorite style?

P.S. There is still time to enter the Pure Stunning giveaway!

The Look for Less: Bow Heels & Wedges

When you think of bows, you probably think of Kate Spade. You can always count on Kate Spade for a classic and fabulous bow. I am constantly coveting the brand's shoes...and handbags...and jewelry...and clothing... However, my wallet isn't as big of a fan. I have recently stumbled across a couple of great look for less options for those of us looking for that perfect bow heel or wedge. A classic black heel with a gold bow or a pair red bow wedges will be perfect for our holiday attire. LC Lauren Conrad via Kohl's offers up a fabulous alternative to the Kate Spade Karolina. And, dare I say it...I actually like the Sole Society wedges more than the Kate Spade - gasp! So, go ahead and put a bow on it - guilt free!

Kate Spade vs. Kohl's
Kate Spade vs. Sole Society

The Look for Less: Casual Booties

Now that fall is officially here, many of us have been browsing around for the perfect pair of fall booties. Here, in the Midwest, we usually only have a short time to wear them before we start wearing winter boots, so I need to take advantage! You may remember a post I did back in August rounding up some of my favorite casual booties (hey, a girl needs to be prepared). Since then, I started noticing so many great look for less options. Most notably, the highly coveted Rag & Bone Harrow booties are back...but so is the price tag. These fabulous ankle booties with an edgy (but not too edgy) buckle detail are easily one of the most popular shoes of the season. Luckily for us, there are a ton of great wallet-friendly options this year for us to choose from - all under $40! And at these prices, you could get two colors! Pretty much impossible to pass up, if you ask me!

J.Crew vs. DSW | Madewell vs. Target | Madewell vs. Old Navy
J.Crew vs. Target | Rag & Bone vs. Forever 21

Shop Even More Booties:

While clean cut ankle booties are classic and probably won't go out of style any time soon, the "edgy" booties are trendy and probably won't stand the test of time. They are the perfect example of when to choose the "save." Plus, let's be realistic, how many of us can really drop $495 on a pair of booties? Or even $200? Not many. I actually prefer the most of the "save" options over the "splurge," especially the  Target Kiriana Ankle Boot! Don't you just love when that happens? The booties I purchased this season are both from Sole Society - the Addison in taupe and the Guiliana in black. If I hadn't already bought these, then I would definitely go for any of the look for less options!

Is there a pair of ankle booties that you are coveting this season?

What do you think of the look for less options? Would you splurge or save?

3.1 Phillip Lim for Target - It's Almost Here!

At the start of the summer, we learned that Phillip Lim was Target's next design collaborator. Blogs, magazines and social media outlets have been buzzing about it since. September 15th just seemed so far away, didn't it? Well, it's here now! In less than a week, the 3.1 Phillip Lim for Target collection will finally launch! During NYFW, Target and Phillip Lim hosted a private shopping event in celebration. Celebs in attendance included Jessica Alba and Solange who wore pieces from the line. The official lookbook was released in August on the Target website. In addition, Refinery29 posted every single Phillip Lim for Target item in a slideshow. It is amazing. Seriously. Check out some of the pieces I have my eye on (although, I think I have my eye on everything):

1. Carry-All Bag in Gray $54.99 | 2. Ruffle Tank in White $26.99 | 3. Long Sleeve Blouse in Green $29.99 | 4. Tuxedo Jacket in Navy/Black $59.99 | 5. Black and White Dress $49.99 | 6. Tote in Navy $54.99 | 7. Dress with Faux Leather $49.99 | Sparkle Blouse in White $39.99 | 9. Drop Dress in White/Black $44.99 | 10. Silky Skirt in Navy/Black $29.99 | 11. Mini Satchel in Gold $34.99 | 12. Sparkle Dress in Blue $49.99 

I love that the collection is full of work-appropriate tanks, trousers, dresses and sweaters, plus some fun, sparkly party dresses. And the bags. Well, the bags speak for themselves. A bag or two is definitely a must-have for me, with my current favorite being the Mini Satchel in Gold. Sunday is bound to be crazy, friends. Make sure to know exactly what items you are interested in and develop a plan of attack, if you're going to make the trip. Everything I have read online says that the collection looks even better in person. Eek!

What will you be snapping up when the collection hits stores on September 15?

The Look for Less: Embellished Sweaters & Sweatshirts

Embellished or jeweled sweaters and sweatshirts were around last year, but they seem to be everywhere this year. They are the perfect mix of laid back and luxe. They also make for an easy outfit. There is not much you need to do to accessorize an already accessorized top. J.Crew has been leading the trend, but Old Navy recently debuted its new crew style, and it inspired me to find some other look for less options.

J.Crew Painted Jewel Sweatshirt | Forever 21 Rhinestoned French Terry Pullover

Jeweled Short Sleeve Sweatshirt | Old Navy Embellished Raglan Sweatshirt

J.Crew Merino Tippi Baseball Sweater | Loft Jeweled Collar Sweatshirt

I just love the added statement to an otherwise ordinary sweatshirt or sweater. I recently purchased the Old Navy sweatshirt above, as well as a solid black one. I am also loving the sequined polka dot options! I also got the J.Crew striped necklace tee in burgundy during a recent promo, and the Factory herringbone jewel collar sweater in cabernet (currently only in stores). The Factory sweater was such a steal! It's regularly priced $118, but I walked out with it for $49! Needless to say, I think I have the embellished/jeweled trend covered for the season. No more purchases for me!

What do you think of the look for less options? Would you splurge or save?

The J.Crew Look for Less

Happy Friday! I swear this summer is flying by! It makes me so sad, because here in Michigan, I don't feel like we have had much of a summer (at least on the weekends when we can enjoy it).  Anyway, it's been awhile since I have done a J.Crew Look for Less. This time I am approaching it a little bit differently. I am sure you all love to browse the J.Crew catalogs as much as I do. I get so excited every time a new one arrives in my mailbox! I immediately flip it open, create a wish list of things to buy and start brainstorming how I can create my favorite looks for less. I also love to do this with J.Crew's "Looks We Love" on the website. I will select a handful of items that I want to buy and always wait for a sale or a promo to do so. I will find the remaining pieces of the look for less. Since J.Crew recently updated their "Looks We Love" for July, I decided to challenge myself with one of the looks that I particularly like. This look is a little bit preppy, a little bit edgy and a little bit vintage, with a whole lot of comfy chic. It is also a very simple outfit to recreate with things you may already have in your closet. Check out some options I have found to help you create this look for less.

J.Crew

Blazer | Tank | Denim | Sunglasses | Flats

Look for Less:

Blazer (over half off) | Denim | Tank | Sunglasses | Flats

What do you think of the look for less?

Do you have any fun plans for the weekend?

P.S. Don't miss out on your chance to enter the Max & Chloe giveaway, and don't forget to link up your blogs for Three-fer Thursday! Have a great weekend!

3.1 Phillip Lim for Target - It's Happening!

I must be living under a rock, because somehow I missed the announcement last month that Target's next design collaborator is Phillip Lim! Did you catch that?! Phillip Lim! If you missed this announcement too, this is real. This is happening.

The collection will launch on September 15, just in time for fall fashion.  According to Target, prices will range from $19.99 to $299.99, with most pieces under $49.99. It will include chiffon, real leather (!!!), jersey and French terry. And ladies, this isn't just for us. The collection will also include men's apparel and accessories. Lim calls the collection, "cool and chic, but still very accessible." 

This collaboration almost didn't happen though. In an interview with the Wall Street Journal, Lim said that he was hesitant to work with the mass retailer and called it "a courtship for five years." We all know that Target's recent collaborations haven't exactly been successful. In fact, the Target x Neiman Marcus holiday collaboration was an epic fail, with items on clearance at 70% off not even a month later. However, I think a Phillip Lim collaboration is much more desirable, and I am betting hoping it will be really good. So, get your calendars and alarms set for September 15! This is a collection people will get excited about. I mean, who doesn't covet his Pashli bags?

Check out Target's first look at the collection:

Watch the Wall Street Journal's Interview with Phillip Lim:

Some 3.1 Phillip Lim eye candy while we wait until September:

Phillip Lim

My Current Favorite:

3.1 Phillip Lim Pashli Medium Satchel Bag, Cobalt

If you couldn't already tell, I am pumped for this collaboration! I have been lusting over 3.1 Phillip Lim handbags for quite some time. However, as much as I love them, I don't love the price tags. I will be waiting anxiously to see more sneak peeks of this collection. I am crossing my fingers for Phillip Lim and Target to knock it out of the park with this one! Thank goodness Lim finally caved!

 Are you as excited as I am? Or do you think this will just be another high-low collaboration miss for Target?

P.S. If you haven't already heard, Google Reader and Google Friend Connect will be no more come July 1st. This is a part of Google's "Spring Cleaning" initiative. If you use Google Friend Connect to follow me, consider using BlogLovin'. I have actually been using BlogLovin' as my reader of choice for a couple of years, and I love it. BlogLovin' also makes it really easy for Google Reader users to import the blogs you follow into BlogLovin'. You won't miss a beat! 

Click here to follow me on BlogLovin'

Click here for instructions on how to import your Google Reader feed to BlogLovin'

Friday Finds: Maxi Dresses

With summer upon us, it is the perfect time to do a round-up of our favorite oh-so-comfy maxi dresses. I don't know about you, but I practically live in maxi dresses in the summer. The versatility of a maxi dress allows you to easily take it from day to night with just a pair of wedges and some accessories. Considering how crazy busy our social calendars get in the summer, a maxi dress (or two, or three) is definitely a summer staple! While shopping online recently, I could not help but notice a couple of fabulous looks for less in the maxi world...

Tory Burch vs. Dorothy Perkins

Lily Pulitzer vs. Old Navy 

I am especially loving the Dorothy Perkins option! As much as I love the Tory Burch look, I don't love the price tag. The Dorothy Perkins dress is the perfect alternative. Both looks for less are perfect for this summer! You can't go wrong with a striped maxi!

Maxi dresses almost feel like cheating in the fashion department. They are so comfortable that it is easy to forget how chic and polished you still look! Case in point: I wore maxi dress to a casual summer barbecue last year, and a guy asked me why I was "dressed up." The question caught me off guard. "I am just wearing a maxi dress and flat sandals," I thought. I felt casual, but I still looked put together. Now, us girls know the difference, but I still love how easy it is to just throw on that maxi dress and walk out the door! Dinner and drinks out later? No problem! Switch the sandals for wedges, throw on a statement necklace and grab a clutch!

Here are 10 picks from some of my favorite places to shop to help you max out your summer style (can you tell I like stripes much?):

1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6 | 7 | 8 |  9 | 10 

Do you love maxi dresses as much as I do?

Which one is your favorite? 

P.S. Today is the LAST day to enter the Gigglosophy giveaway! Also, don't forget to link up your blogs for Three-fer Thursday!

Linking up with Friday's Five

Look for Less: Skirts

I just love a great skirt. I practically live in skirts and dresses during the summer time. I tend to splurge a little on skirts since I do get a lot of wear out of them. Skirts are so much more fun to wear in a business casual work place than boring, old black trousers. I don't know about you, but sometimes I get in a rut with the business casual dress code. I definitely feel more stylish when I am wearing a cute skirt at work. If I find a great skirt that can take me from work to dinner, be dressed up or dressed down and worn out to brunch with the girlfriends, then it is worth it to me. (Remember my "price per wear" rule and my 70/30 rule?) Even so, I cannot splurge on every skirt, so I am always on the hunt for more affordable alternatives. These look for less options are perfect for us budget fashionistas who cannot afford to splurge all the time, but want something cute and stylish. Even better? You can get all four of the looks for less for only $105! That is less than any of the individual splurge options below. Don't you love it?

Shop the Post:

Kate Spade vs. Dorothy Perkins

J.Crew vs. Target

J.Crew vs. Old Navy

 J.Crew vs. Forever 21

 

**Dorothy Perkins is offering 20% off from May 12-19 with code DPFWE.**

What do you think of the look for less options?

 

P.S. Stay tuned for something fun coming to the blog starting this Thursday!



Spot the Real: Bow Cross Body Bags

Find out which is the real and which is the steal:

LEFT | RIGHT 

So, I found myself in DSW over the weekend. Don't worry - I did not cheat on my closet remix challenge! It is only Day 7, after all! Anyway, while I was there, I could not help but notice the adorable bow cross body bags that reminded me so much of the Kate Spade Bow Terrace Leigh bag I have been lusting over.  I was this close to buying it in the Ostrich Egg color (which is now sold out on katespade.com, but available on Piperlime.com for full price) during the recent Friends & Family sale. But I resisted, as I already had a bangle, earrings and a watch in my cart. It was a proud moment for me, hehe. The Asphalt and Maraschino colors are still on sale at Kate Spade for $178 - over $100 off the full price! You can also get another 15% off for signing up for the newsletter! OR you can simply get the look for less at DSW for only $30! The Poppie Jones Bow Front Cross Body bag is perfect for those of us who don't want to splurge on bags, but want something stylish. Can't decide on a color? Buy all three for less than $100! You can't go wrong with a classic bow cross body bag!

Are you as obsessed with bows as I am?

Would you splurge or steal on the bow cross body?

Look for Less: Sandals

Continuing on my Look for Less: Wedges and Flats post from last week, I have put together the Look for Less: Sandals. Although, I did just splurge on a pair of Tory Burch Miller Sandals during the Friends and Fans event, I usually choose the "steal" when it comes to the flat sandal. There is just not much to a flat sandal, so they tend to not last very long regardless of the brand name (at least in my experience). I just love having the option to splurge or steal! Check out some options for this season below:

J.Crew Crushed Glitter Sandal (sold out) | Target Lavada Slide Sandal

MM6 Maison Martin Margiela | American Eagle Neon Strap Sandal

Dolce Vita Archer T-Strap Sandal | Target Mossimo Thong Sanda

DV by Dolce Vita Ayden Sandal | Target Mossimo Nina Braided Strap Sandal

Kate Spade Bow Thong Sandal | LC Lauren Conrad T-Strap Sandal 

I don't know about you, but I think the items above are dead ringers for each other!  I purchased the Target version of the glitter sandals above. It hasn't gotten warm enough here to wear them yet (although, it is finally getting there), but I am really loving them! They seem like they will be comfortable to wear, and they will be versatile. I can see myself wearing them with a dress or a skirt, or with jeans or shorts.  The neon "steals" above are a great way to subtly get into the neon trend without breaking the bank. I am also loving the bow sandals. After all, I never met a bow I didn't like!

What do you think? Will you splurge or save on sandals this season?

Look for Less: Wedges and Flats

I tend to splurge a little on shoes. Comfort and quality are important to me. However, even the most expensive of shoes can be the most uncomfortable! So, I guess "comfort" isn't too good of an argument. Since the average girl cannot splurge on every pair of shoes (and we all need many pairs of shoes), I have found a few "look for less" options for spring and summer. I originally planned this post with about four "look for less" options in mind. That quickly turned into at least ten! That being said, this post will feature wedges and flats. Stay tuned for part two - sandals!

Tory Burch Adonis Stretch Espadrille Wedge vs. Target Merona Wedge Espadrilles
J.Crew Seville Wedge Espadrilles vs. Target Merona Espadrilles 
Kate Spade Theodora Cork Wedge Sandal vs. JCPenney Wedge Sandals
Kate Spade Terry Flats vs. Forever 21 Leopard Print Flats
 J.Crew Mila Novelty Ballet Flats  vs. Forever 21 Striped Cap Toe Ballet Flats

If you are on Instagram, you have probably seen J.Crew Seville Wedge Espardrille look-alikes from Target a few times. I have these and love them! I also was debating the on the striped Target Merona Wedge Espadrilles above. I am thinking I might have to go back for them! They were quite comfortable and are very similar to the Tory Burch version. I am loving them in khaki! For me, I already have a couple pairs of shoes I splurged on last year that I will continue to get a lot of wear out of this year. Unless I find a pair I cannot live without, I will likely go for a look for less this season. It also allows me to buy more shoes. That is a win in my book!

What do you think of the looks for less above?

Will you splurge or save this season?

Stay tuned for the Part Two - Sandals!

Kate Spade Look for Less

I love Kate Spade New York. The handbags, the shoes, the jewelry, the stationary, the home goods - everything! I love Kate Spade because it is bold, yet classic and playful, yet sophisticated. I may or may not have taken small advantage of the "Friends and Family" sale this weekend...

As much as I love Kate Spade, the prices don't always work for my budget. However, Kate Spade earrings always "seem" reasonable when compared to the shoes and handbags I've been coveting. At $40-60 minimum though, they still really are expensive earrings. As much as I love a good pair of Kate Spade earrings, I will only buy them if I catch them on sale. During some recent trips to Target, I could not help but notice a couple of great Kate Spade looks for less in the jewelry department. I snagged the pink stud earrings below for myself and recently received the same pair in turquoise from my friend Bethany at Perfectly Coutured. These studs are the perfect Kate Spade look for less! I have noticed a few other great options over the past few weeks, so I got inspired to put them all together. You can purchase every look for less item below for a whopping $28 - less than the price of ONE pair of Kate Spade earrings!

Kate Spade Locked In Studs vs. Charlotte Russe Pyramid Studs

Kate Spade Skinny Mini Bow Studs vs. Target Bow Studs (on clearance!)

Kate Spade Small Square Studs vs. Target Pink Studs

Kate Spade Bow Shoppe Studs vs. Forever 21 Bow Studs 

Kate Spade Goreski Glasses Studs vs. Forever 21 Wayfarer Sunglasses Studs

So, how cute are those sunglasses studs?! Perfect for summer! Choosing the look for less is definitely a pro vs. con situation. For the above earrings, I would definitely choose to buy all of the looks for less and save my money to splurge on something else. However, I would never give up my Kate Spade All Wrapped Up Pavé Stud Earrings...but that's just me.

Let me know what you think of the Kate Spade looks for less above!

Linking up with Coffee Beans & Bobby Pins / FACE IT Catalog / Because Shanna Said So / Style Elixir

Guest Blogger - Renee from Style with a Story

Hello! I'm Renee, and I blog over at Style with a Story. I'm so happy to be guest blogging at Everyday Fashion and Finance while Meghan is having the time of her life in Ireland and Scotland (I'm so jealous!). I've been a huge fan of Meghan's blog since the first day. Like me, Meghan is a fashionista on a budget and has incredible tips on saving money, getting the look for less and recognizing splurge worthy classics. I love knowing that I'm not the only budget conscience fashionista out there...all of us gals on a budget need to stick together! I have found so many deals and steals from Meghan and others who share their secrets and finds:)

I always say that you don't have to spend a fortune to look like a million bucks- and I am a firm believer in that!

Recently, Meghan did a post on finding the J.Crew look for less at Old Navy. See this post for the details. I was amazed at what a great look-a-like Old Navy produced, but the best part was the price!

Regarding Meghan's price per wear rule, it was not worth it for me to spend $150 on the J.Crew Liberty shirt, but it was absolutely worth spending $25 at Old Navy!  I decided to steal rather than splurge on this item.

Here's how I styled it:

Outfit Details

Old Navy Floral Shirt // Gap Yellow Cardigan // J.Crew Jeans

Steve Madden Flats - sold out, but loving these // J.Crew Factory Pearls

J.Crew Factory Bracelet // Bakelite bangles from an old antique shop

Earrings - old, but similar style at J.Crew Factory

Etsy Love!

It's official. I think Etsy is the greatest site ever. I fell in love with Etsy while wedding planning last year. It is an AH-MAZING resource for brides! I went a little Etsy-crazy, but found so many great items at great prices. Etsy is perfect for finding unique items, DIY solutions and looks for less. It is also perfect for the extra busy bride who would love to DIY, but just cannot pull it off for everything - which was totally me! (Look for an upcoming post featuring all my Etsy wedding vendors - they were all fantastic!)  

Luckily for me, my Etsy obsession can continue, as it is also one of my go-to sites for budget-friendly jewelry and decor. Once a month I plan to feature some Etsy finds and favorite vendors. This post will focus on my current favorites for trendy jewelry items.

Gigglosophy

I have featured Gigglosophy briefly before - in my very first J.Crew Look for Less post. But, I cannot do a post on my current favorite Etsy vendors for jewelry without including this shop again! Tanya is absolutely a pleasure to work with and the products are gorgeous and quality items! If you follow me on Instagram, you see how much wear I get out of my pavé link and spike bracelets. Here are a few of my current favorites from Gigglosophy:

(Left to Right)  Clover Bracelet - $14 // Enamel Link Bracelet - $24 // Gold Chain Link Bracelet - $10 (on sale!)

Bip and Bop

Words cannot express how much I am loving Bip and Bop right now! I love how dainty the pieces are. I am totally lacking dainty pieces in my jewelry collection right now - they are PERFECT for layering! Here are a few of my current favorites from Bip and Bop (it was hard to narrow it down to three!):

(Left to Right): Darling Bow Bracelet - $22 // Anchor Necklace - $26.25 // Carrie Bracelet - $20
(Also loving the XO necklace and the Sweethearts necklace)

GlamourMeJewels

I am loving all the bright colors in this shop! So many cute and on trend pieces here. This shop also has some gorgeous J.Crew looks for less! I guess I cannot just limit the J.Crew Looks for Less posts to once month, no matter how hard I try! I think they are finding me! How identical is the Jasmine necklace to the sold out J.Crew Color Drop necklace?! Still pricey, but definitely an excellent look for less! Here are a few of my current faves from GlamourMeJewels:

(Left to Right): Mollie Bracelet - $20 // Jasmine Necklace - $75 // Lilly Necklace - $29
(Also loving the Anchor bracelets and the Delia bracelet)

I just cannot say enough about Etsy! It is so much fun just to browse around online! It is also a great place to find cute and personalized gifts. And hello, monograms! Tons of cute monogrammed items on Etsy! My "Favorites" is jam-packed with items that I love and have my eye on! I see so many fun Etsy posts in my future...

Are you an Etsy shopper? I would love to hear about your Etsy purchases and favorite shops!

My Favorite Accessory: The Watch

If you know me (or follow me on Instagram), then you may know that I have a watch obsession. It is definitely one of those items I choose to splurge a little on. I consider them staples in my wardrobe. Not because I spend more on them, but because of the amount that I wear them. I wear a watch every single day. It is one of those things that adds some instant glam to your outfit. It is also the start to a pretty great arm party! I have posted before about how I strive to have a balance between more expensive pieces and affordable pieces in my attire. One of the ways I accomplish that is with the watch. If you are on a limited budget, a go-to budget tip is to invest in accessories. They can bring a whole new look to your outfits, plus you can wear them year-round and many different ways.

The Watch that Started it All

Michael Kors Quartz, Mother of Pearl Dial Acrylic Clear Band 
(Style MK5235 - hard to find)

My obsession started with my first Michael Kors watch purchase a couple of years ago. At the time, everyone was buying the oversized, white Michael Kors watches, but I wanted something different. So instead, I ordered a Michael Kors watch with a clear band during one of Nordstrom's semi-annual sales. At the time, I had not seen anyone wearing that style, so I was excited. I was also loving the gorgeous mother of pearl face. Once it arrived though, I almost returned it. You see, I have very small wrists (we're talking child size here), so the watch just felt so large and ridiculous on me. But, it was the style. THANKFULLY, I did not return it. I got used to it fairly quickly, and then my watch obsession was born! Shortly after that came the Michael Kors tortoise watch and then the Marc Jacobs gold watch, which both immediately became staple pieces on rotation in my wardrobe.

The Tortoise Watch

Michael Kors 'Jet Set' Bracelet Watch
(Sale Alert - Amazon for only $180!!)

I got the Michael Kors tortoise watch the following year. I found it on sale at the Michael Kors store at my local mall, and the retail associate "talked me into it", or at least that is what I tell my {now} husband ;) I consider it one of my best purchases (right up there with my Hunter boots). Not only did I somehow find this now super popular watch on sale, but I have found it very versatile because it is so neutral. I used to think this watch was more of a fall accessory, but I could not have been more wrong. This watch can definitely be worn during all four seasons. I love wearing it with navy and white during the summer, particularly. It often fights with my gold watch for those outfits.

The Classic Gold Watch

Marc by Marc Jacobs via Nordstrom

I finally got a gold watch last summer. Again, I scored it on sale at Nordstrom. I cannot get enough of this watch! I do not know how I lived without it. Okay, that is a bit dramatic, but I do wear this watch the most! I do not think I need to say that it goes with everything - but, it does! Of all the watches, this one adds the most glam to my everyday look.

My Most Recent Purchase

Kate Spade Cooper Strap

Since I am averaging a new watch per year, I was due for a new watch in 2013. I purchased this Kate Spade watch for 20% off from Piperlime with a recent promo code. Of course, I am obsessed with this watch too! At first glance, you may think it is less versatile or more of a trend purchase. However, the style of this watch is definitely classic. The color can actually be paired with a variety of colors - white, navy, pink, black, yellow. I will most likely wear this watch three out of four seasons (skipping fall), and more heavily during the spring and summer. I love that it is a very different style and look than my other three watches.

Clearly, I am building a collection here, but I have yet to buy a watch at full price! It is my rule. There are numerous times you can find designer watches on sale. My favorite is during the Nordstrom semi-annual sales, which is where I have found the best deals. Macy's will also occasionally have them on sale, or websites like Gilt and Rue La La will feature them - you just have to be patient and watch. Another place many people do not think to look is Piperlime. Chances are they probably have the watch you are eyeing, so next time there is a promo code, use it! You could also try eBay or Poshmark for gently used options.

If the sales are not popping up or you just cannot find the right deal, there are also ways to get the looks for less:

Get the Looks for Less

(Left to Right) Breda - $35 // Fossil - $105 // Fossil - $145 // Target - $60

A watch is something you will wear for years. Not to wear this out, but remember the "price per wear" rule? Yeah, the watch is an overachiever! A true staple in my book.

Others that I am loving:

1. Urban Outfitters // 2. Target // 3. Kate Spade 

4. Fossil // 5. Fossil // 6. Marc by Marc Jacobs // 7. Michael Kors

It is funny because I do not exactly wear watches for their intended purpose of telling time. There have been numerous occasions where I have realized that I did not appropriately change the time on my watch. It is definitely an accessory for me rather than a tool. Instead, I use my iPhone to see what time it is - silly! I will have to remind myself to change my watch this weekend for Daylight Savings Time!

Are you as watch obsessed as I am? Or do you have a different jewelry staple you cannot get enough of? I would love to hear what your favorite accessory is!