The Kaizen Fashion Project

Happy Valentines Day

2012-02-14T08:32:00.000-08:00

Yes that's a fish cracker with the word LOVE on it, and yes, I ate it. =D

Wishing you a fabulous Valentines day however you're choosing to spend it! Me, I'm going shopping. Then making cupcakes and watching an old black and white film. Can't wait!

love.love.love

PS. Enter the BAGGU Leather Pouch Giveaway(Ends 2/20). I know I keep reminding you, but it's just because I don't want you to miss out!

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Red Leopard Spots

2012-02-13T08:19:00.000-08:00

Blouse, Blazer, Jeans, Wedges(similar), Vintage Saks Bag(similar), Bracelets - JCREW(similar) | Forever 21(similar) | Thrifted (similar)

Happy Monday all!

My new threads arrived a couple days ago and I played dress up with them yesterday, mixing and matching them with lots of other pieces in my wardrobe to see if they meshed as well as I thought they would. I'm happy to report they did! I'm especially loving the DownEast Basics polka dot top, it's so versatile and beautiful. Apologies about the blurry photos, took these quick before I jumped in my car. :)

Wishing you a fabulous start to the week! Oh and don't miss the BAGGU Leather Clutch/Pouch Giveaway(Ends 2/20)!

Love,

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Coming soon to a blog near you

2012-02-12T13:57:00.000-08:00

Just a quick sneak peek at a fun giveaway starting 2/20! Super excited about this one as I'm really loving stud earrings right now(see this post), and thought one of you gals who shares my love for them might like to win and rock these!

This weekend has been so relaxing. I've had lots of free time to catch up on light domestic chores and also some reading and catching up with friends. I'm hoping this becomes a trend. How's your weekend been?

Love,

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Currently Obsessed: Stud Earrings

2012-02-10T06:24:00.000-08:00

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

Has anyone else noticed all the amazing stud earrings lately? Maybe I'm just loving them so much I'm noticing them more, but gosh they're CUTE. I used to not be much of a stud wearing girl. I wore lots of hoops and dangles, but recently this stud business is really growing on me! The hard part is deciding which to buy. Choices, choices.

Do you wear stud earrings?

Have you entered the BAGGU Leather Clutch/Pouch Giveaway(Ends 2/20)?

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Thrifting Thursday - What I Scored

2012-02-09T10:05:00.000-08:00

Leopard + Sequins = Fashion heaven for me.

Can I just say how AMAZING is that leopard sequin jacket!? I know it's hard to see, but I'll post an outfit post with it soon. I about peed my pants when I spotted it. It's vintage, no label. It's in perfect condition, doesn't look like it's been worn. SCORE of the day, maybe year for me, that's how much I LOVE it. The other dresses I also love so much and can't wait to share some outfit posts with them! The black quilted vintage Saks purse is fabulous as well, so happy to have found it, it's my new favorite bag. Thrifting is hit or miss, we all know this, but lately I've been pretty lucky on my thrifting adventures(knock on wood).

I love thrifting. It's been something I've been doing since I was a little girl when my Grandma and Mom would take me for a day of 'treasure hunting'. Since then, it's grown to be a favorite hobby of mine and I'm happier than a kid in a candy store when I'm digging through racks. Thrifting's something I'm passionate about because I believe in being mindful and resourceful, plus for me it helps refresh/challenge my creativity as to how I'm going to incorporate the new piece into my existing wardrobe. FUN! Thrifting also saves my anorexic wallet some much needed weight. I'd love to know, are you a thrifter? Or is it just not your cup of tea?

Have you entered the BAGGU Leather Pouch/Clutch Giveaway(Ends 2/20)? If not, hurry because it's super cute and amazing and I'd love you to win it!

Love,

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New & Noteworthy - What I Bought

2012-02-07T07:18:00.000-08:00

1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5

I was browsing Forever21.com yesterday not really expecting to find too much. I guess the photo collage above proves otherwise. After a few minutes of browsing I found the polka dot scarf, and I have a serious love for those round beauties so that went in the cart first. I found the camo jacket in their "Flash Deals" section but unfortunately they only had medium and large left, so I did something totally uncharacteristic of me,.... I bought the medium. I have a sewing machine and I feel like my stitching skills are fairly good enough to take it in and make it a size small. There's a story as to why I would do such a silly thing. Last spring Old Navy released a camo jacket very similar to one JCrew had. It was SO PERFECT and looked fabulous with everything. I was lucky enough to stumble on two in the clearance section of Old Navy so I scooped them up and brought them both to NYC with me shortly after. One I left in NYC with my bestie who lives there, the other came home with me, but SIGH, a few days after I was home I went to wear it and it was no where to be found. So SAD. I've scoured eBay, etsy, anywhere I could find a replacement since, with no luck, so when I saw this pretty little thing on sale I figured it's the next best thing, and sometimes we have to settle in life and make things work, right?

Whoa. That was quite the explanation. HA. Back to the clothes.

I've never owned a red blazer and have always wanted to, and this particular one has leopard print lining! Leopard print lining, so stoked!

The High/Low asymmetrical polka dot skirt I instantly fell in love with when I saw it! I can already think of a million ways to wear it!

Lastly I am crazy about chevron patterns, so mix that with semi-sheer, asymmetrical skirt, and dress and I'm SOLD! Isn't it so lovely? I think so. I'm also dreaming of all the ways I'm going to wear it!

The best part was the price. $116 for all of it! $116. That's a STEAL! I will just have to be mindful when I wash them as I want them to last a while.

So there's my New & Noteworthy haul from Forever 21! There's tons of other super cute stuff on their site right now, if you haven't visited lately, do it!

Don't miss entering my BAGGU Leather Pouch Giveaway!

Love,

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Pin It Pin It

BAGGU Giveaway

2012-02-05T23:11:00.007-08:00

Super excited about this giveaway! One lovely reader will win a gorgeous incredibly soft leather pouch from BAGGU! I love BAGGU (see here), and was thrilled when they began offering other amazing pieces (besides their always fabulous reusable bags) such as, leather bags, pouches, and backpacks!

I've had my pouch for almost two weeks and am extremely happy with my purchase! It's perfect size to hold a small wallet, keys, your phone and some lipstick comfortably. I love it tucked under my arm for a night out with just a few necessities inside as well! I love it so much that I want to share one with one of you!

NOW here's how to enter the giveaway:

Mandatory :: 1 Entry

1.) Must be a follower of Kaizen Fashion Project!

2.) Visit BAGGU and leave a comment with the pouch color you'd pick!

For extra entries:

Leave a separate comment for each.

3.) Subscribe via rss

4.) Follow Kaizen Fashion Project on Twitter

5.) Follow on Bloglovin'

6.) Follow Kaizen Fashion Project on Pinterest

Giveaway ends February 20th! Winner will be chosen at random and has 48 hours to respond, or a new winner will be chosen.

GOOD LUCK! xo

Love,

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Baggu Giveaway on Monday February 6th

2012-02-04T14:14:00.000-08:00

Pins and needles excited to share a sneak peek of a fabulous giveaway beginning on Monday February 6th! The 'peek' is obviously that it's something amazing from BAGGU, the 'sneak' is that you'll have to come back on Monday to find out what it is and to enter to win! You must be a follower to enter! xo

Love,

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Cambridge = Blinding Fun

2012-02-03T09:58:00.000-08:00

Photos via Pinterest

Cambridge's neon satchels are blindingly beautiful! Yes they are saturated and in-your-face, but don't be afraid to sport one - they are basically just a neutral, and should be treated a such. See above as proof. The colors are all amazing, but I especially adore the yellow and orange! Which color is your favorite?

Adopt one here.

Love,

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Sass & Bide Kaleidoscopic Shorts

2012-02-02T09:49:00.000-08:00

These. Um yes. THESE.

Love,

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Three Cheers For Brogues

2012-02-02T09:25:00.000-08:00

Top | Bottom

If I had an allowance, I would spend them on these! Just look at how gorgeous they are! Take your time, I'll wait.....................

Seriously. Fabulous.

They are just the thing to add an unexpected burst of color to any outfit, in an equally unexpected way. They are especially great for the color shy. If your wardrobe consists of mostly neutrals; black, navy, camel, white, these are for you! A subtle, but super cool way to add color to your daily style.

Based in the UK, ASOS know how to do brogues. I'm a huge fan. I'm still loving mine I got two years ago!

Love,

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February 14 Outfit

2012-02-01T17:03:00.000-08:00

1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6

Arguably, this post is a bit early for Valentines day, but while browsing Pinterest this morning I was fashionably assaulted repeatedly with gorgeous bright reds, hearts and shiny jewelry everywhere! I'm not complaining mind you, I was actually quite giddy about it! My mind began reeling about what I would wear come February 14. This is it. This. Is. It.

Love,

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Current Love

2012-01-30T12:15:00.000-08:00

The thing about totes bags is that you can never really have too many. Cute ones especially. I'm enamored with these two-sided, leather handled, screen printed on organic cotton beauties. What's more? They're a roomy 16" x 18", with an inside pocket and are made in the USA. Cheers to that! All that.

Find them at FLUFFYCO for $49.

They also have some other super pretty prints/designs!

I'm thinking I may even DIY this! Get me a tote bag and fabric paint and BAM. Simple as that.

Love,

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The Nighshirt

2012-01-30T07:23:00.000-08:00

Lately I've really been wanting to sleep in a long comfy boyfriend nightshirt. They're super cute and add a little warmth on chilly nights. I found the above HIGH end nightshirt from Brulee via byLangley, but even on sale, $119.00 is way too steep for this girl. Fortunately I came across a similar nightshirt for only $16.00 via Mexy. That's more like it. The shapes are slightly different, specifically the bottom hems. I do love the curve of the Brulee shirt, but it's nothing a quick run through the sewing machine won't fix!

Love,

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Punchy Neon

2012-01-29T15:04:00.000-08:00

1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5

I'm aware the neon trend we've been seeing crop up just about everywhere is nothing new, but I'm still loving the energizing feeling that wearing something punchy gives. Here are a few of my current neon loves.

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Shine Bright

2012-01-15T10:38:00.000-08:00

Source: justatitch.com via Kaizen Fashion Project on Pinterest

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Get Friendly - JCREW Style

2012-01-14T12:49:00.000-08:00

Since I was girl, bracelets have always been a favorite accessory of mine. I really adore all jewelry and appreciate it's beauty and significance in enhancing ones look, but I especially LOVE bracelets! I love the endless combinations of; materials, textures, colors, and size. They are a quick and surefire way to instantly add personal style and fun to your outfit, and are so easily mixed and matched. I'm convinced it's practically foolproof to goof up throwing bracelets on and looking great!

My newest love is this beauty from JCREW. Isn't she lovely? Small, dainty, but shiny, detailed, and impactful all at once! It's a gorgeous cherry apple red, made of nylon cord, with a super shiny thin rhinestone chain, and my favorite - teeny tiny rhinestone covered balls at the ends! Love. Love. Love.

I layered it with a neon DIY bracelet I made, my simple black masculine watch, and another double row black friendship bracelet from Forever21. So so happy with it! Have any gorgeous bracelets you want to share about? I wanna hear! Xo

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Baggu: Duck duck goose

2012-01-14T12:41:00.000-08:00

Confession; I have a love affair with Baggu. Yes it's true, and since it's inception a few years back I've followed the brand fairly closely. It all started when Baggu's website first went live and I ordered my first set of three reusable bags. I was hooked instantly. These are, in my opinion, the best reusable bags on the market. Hands down. And since they began, they've branched out adding tons and tons of amazingly beautiful colors and patterns to their already lovely collection. Just have a look. I'm loving the brights and stripes! Swoon.

Most recently I discovered they now have a bunch of new amazing bags, including, backpacks, leather bags and pouches, canvas bags, and zipper bags! They all look fantastic and functional! I was lucky enough recently to be gifted one of their Duck Bags in Sailor Stripe. I can't say enough about how I love this bag. I've carried it everyday since I received it; to the school, grocery store, shopping, lunch dates, everywhere. You get the idea. It's durable, but soft, and is one large compartment with on small inside pocket attached one the side at the top for a cell, chapstick, etc. I've been sporting it messenger style for the most part, but have also been folding it in half and carrying it as a large clutch. I've received lots of compliments and people asking where it's from, and for $24.00 it's a steal of a deal!

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Autumn Uniform

2011-10-15T09:44:00.000-07:00

Fall Jeans by heather-harristx featuring a stripe shirt

Autumn is my absolute favorite season; the colors, the rain, the wet colorful leaves, warm crackling fires, hot soups....all of it! This outfit is my Autumn inspiration. Stripes, boots, a scarf, and a punches of color. Love, love, love.

via Pinterest

Reading that makes my heart take a deep breath and sigh. Things are falling apart around me, but I'm comforted in knowing, He's in control in spite of everything, and he works everything out for my good....

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Sabo Skirt $200 Shop Giveaway

2011-03-27T21:13:00.000-07:00

A new online shop has hit the fashion world, and I want everything! It goes by the name of SABO SKIRT and is run by the two girls from the SABO SKIRT blog. To start shopping go to www.saboskirt.com, and to check out their blog visit www.saboskirt.blogspot.com - Repost this as well as the photograph for a chance to win a $200.00 Gift Voucher at SHOP SABO SKIRT!

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Color me colorful

2011-03-26T18:40:00.000-07:00

If there's one thing you learn about yourself, and your style as you become an adult, it's this - patterns. You begin seeing patterns in your closet. No, I don't mean patterns, as in, that pretty floral dress or sassy ikat skirt, I mean patterns of similar pieces, colors, and silhouettes. For me it's neutrals and streamlined modern cuts. I have the best intentions when I enter a store to push myself out of my comfort zone and choose only color and patterned pieces, but unfortunately, even with an armload of potential color saturated beauties, I leave the dressing room with none. Yup that's right, none. Not because the fit wasn't right but because I'm afraid of commitment. There. I said it! Man that feels good.

It comes down to this little routine - while eyeing myself in the mirror I drill myself about the practicality, usefulness, or just plain kick-ass-ness of the piece, and how well I'll be able to integrate it into my exiting wardrobe. Nine times out of ten I bolt. It's just easier to stick with the tried and true, you know? Well yesterday I ordered two pieces with color (insert gasping sound here)! I know I know what a rebel right? Ha ha. All kidding aside, I'm determined to slowly incorporate more color into my closet. And since I'm making a cyber declaration about it, I'm hoping I'll stick to it. Because if I don't I'll look like a neutral colored pansy. And nobody likes one of those.

Shabby Apple L'Artiste Dress

Mimi Boutique Sienna Bag in Red

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Hint of Burgundy

2011-01-02T18:15:00.000-08:00

I'm loving the touches of burgundy I've been seeing lately on streetstyle blogs. Red is one of my favorite colors and this dark moody variation is quickly winning me over. The other day while thrifting I found this pretty little red/burgundy corduroy skirt and immediately fell in love with it. What's more, it was my size(we all know thrifting is a crapshoot, you win some you lose some, size wise anyway), plus it was fifty-percent off, so it was only $2.49. SCORE! I love it when I find things I love for next to nothing. I also scored the cream/beige chunky knit sweater I'm wearing and a few other things not shown.

I'm also wearing my new black wedge welly rubber boots I told you about here. To say I love them is an understatement. That's how amazing they are. They're also extremely comfortable and I receive lots of compliments when I wear them. Unfortunately I have yet to wear the gold sequin dress (shown in the same post as the boots) out because I've been staying home a lot lately because of the cold, and I'm just feeling hermit-ish. I planned on wearing it New Years Eve, but we had friends over instead of going out so I just wore a comfy don't-have-to-be-careful-how-you-sit-down dress instead. Oh well. It will get it's chance to shine someday. Happy Belated New Years! Here's to a happy and healthy 2011. Cheers!

Hat: thrifted
Sweater: GAP, thrifted
Top: Forever 21
Bow on Top: DIY
Skirt: thrifted
Tights: Macys
Boots: Wedge Welly
Bag: thrifted

Stockholm Street Style, TFS.Vanessa Jackmann

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Malene Birger FW 2010 - 2011

2010-12-29T16:26:00.000-08:00

Beautiful Fall/Winter collection eye candy by Malene Birger. Endless inspiration. Love love love.

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Karla Spetic Autumn/Winter 2010 Collection

2010-12-29T07:59:00.000-08:00

When the weather gets chilly I grab my go-to pieces. All of which happen to be in neutral tones. A cream wool coat, navy/black blazers, gray scarves, black boots. Which are all great and mix and match seamlessly with whatever I throw on with them, but when I stumbled across Karla Spetic's AW10 collection, I started to rethink my Autumn/Winter uniform. While other designers stick with the tried-and-true dark moody colors for their collections, Karla Spetic bucks the conventional in favor of pastels in blush pinks, bluish grays, ivory, and lilac, with splashes of orange. Surprisingly it feels right. Very right. The clothes are beautifully cut in geometric patterns and shapes, and I love the detailed necklines of the mini dresses, and the occasional twists in the fabric and color blocking. My favorite is the braided scarf (this may be a future diy for me). The overall feeling of the collection is romantic and dreamy. A welcome change from all the "usual" fall colors.

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Prima Ballerina - Black Swan Inspired

2010-12-20T16:04:00.001-08:00

I've never mentioned it on my blog before now, but I danced ballet most of my life - roughly sixteen years. When I saw the trailer for Black Swan, a new movie starring Natalie Portman, I was entranced and intrigued. Not just because the trailer is gripping, and looks like an edge-of-your-seat psychological thriller, but because of the costumes! It's not often that a film is made centered around ballet so this is super exciting for me! Below are a couple of the original Kate and Laura Mulleavy of Rodarte sketches. Brilliant!

The film has inspired me to add some more prima ballerina lovelies to my wardrobe. These give off a feminine, ethereal, innocent charm. A few I'm loving:

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

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Sheer Black Skirts

2010-12-19T19:29:00.000-08:00

When I saw the Chloe's 2011 RTW line I immediately fell in love with the sheers fabrics and flounciness of the skirts and dresses. I owned a sheer black skirt only once in my life and I was around maybe nine years old, so it's been a while. I also remembered I had come across a few photos of sheer black skirts via fashion and streetstyle blogs. After a little searching I found the inspiration that I was looking for.

These women effortlessly make the sheer black skirt a must for any girls closet. It's feminine, modern, and just down-right cool.

Here's a list of a few affordable options:
(click each skirt to be taken to retailer)

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Black Wedge Heels - Lisa Marie Fernandez

2010-12-19T14:21:00.000-08:00

via

I love everything about the photo above, via Stockholm Streetstyle: the Celine contrast pocket coat, Celine bag, and those black wedge heels. I'm not sure where her heels are from but I've found a few contenders that mirror the style well.

(click each shoe to be taken to retailer)

Wedges by KORS
Mules & Clogs by J. Jill

I love love love the coat. It's a perfect example of how navy and black can mix so well when done right, and the pockets add a touch of the unexpected in a subtle way.

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Apart Style

2010-12-16T20:39:00.000-08:00

I always get super excited when I come across a new amazing online boutique. I admit, it doesn't happen often as it's time consuming and tedious to search and dig around the inter-web, but when I strike gold, all the time spent searching feels well worth it. My newest discovery, Apart Style, is an online boutique which boasts, "A new brand of accessible luxury. A new voice in modern fashion." I spent some time browsing the site and I'm hooked and couldn't agree more with that statement. My favorite feature is the 'Shop The Style' section where you can browse through lookbook categories such as; The Agency, Little City, After Dark, New Glamour, and Modern Boho. Here are a few looks I'm crazy about.

So many of these pieces would mix so well with my wardrobe, and they're all really versatile. My wish list just got quite a bit longer.

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Business as usual

2010-12-12T18:36:00.000-08:00

New blog/business cards. LOVE.

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Coming Soon

2010-12-12T10:29:00.000-08:00

The first second I laid eyes on Lulus.com DJ Global sequin dress I had to have it. Apparently, I wasn't the only girl thinnking that, because when I went to throw it in my cart I saw two words I often despise. SOLD OUT. Boo. What's a girl to do? I called them right away, chatted with the lovely Brittany, and was able to order it, although she said I would have to wait three weeks to get it. Wait? No problem. I'm cool with waiting when I'm waiting for something I really really want. Plus I love getting things in the mail. I talked with Brittany yesterday and she said my dress went out yesterday! Super excited! I also ordered some new rain boots since I'm obsessed with them. I've never owned a wedge pair before, but I've admired them for a while so I decided it was time to give in, and where I live rains a lot so I justified it. They will be here when the dress arrives so look for a post soon. I also have two bags courtesy of Mimi Boutique to show you that I just received so look for that too in the next couple of days.
Do you have 'coming soon' lovelies of your own? Do share! Also if you have a bag from Mimi Boutique I'd love to hear how you like yours!

Gift Guide - Cozy

2010-12-11T16:56:00.000-08:00

1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6

Cozy is my favorite. Well one one of my favorites at least. My hands and feet are always, always cold so I'm especially attracted to clothes and accessories that are not only stylish but also, well, cozy. These are some of my cozy warm favorites inspired by Alexa Chung's chunky cable sweater(center).

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Gift Guide - Sparkle

2010-12-11T14:20:00.000-08:00

(clockwise from top: ribbon necklace LOFT, circle beaded headband Charlotte Russe, glitter ballet pumps Topshop, sequin mesh bell skirt JCREW, sequin party clip set ban.do, sultry eye palette Bobbi Brown )

The holiday's always rekindle my love for all things sparkly and gold, I'm not sure why they just do. Here's a little gift guide of the sparkly things on my wish list!

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Land's End Canvas Review

2010-12-07T21:57:00.000-08:00

Over the last year of so I've had the privilege of being one of Lucky Magazine's Alpha Shoppers - a fashion lover hand-picked for their personal style and influence to collaborate and review trends or products. Along with being super fun, it definitely has it's perks. Most recently that perk was a $100 gift card to Land's End Canvas(Land's End more modern/contemporary line) to spend as I'd like. As I mentioned on Lucky Style Spotter, I haven't visited Land's Ends website for almost two years. I browsed the site and catalog back then and felt it wasn't relevant to my taste or style, but revisiting a couple years later I can now say I no longer feel that way - especially with their Canvas line. I pulled up the site thinking I would find a couple simple t-shirts, or a couple other basics and be done, but I found myself loving the cuts, patterns and designs of the anything but basic line. I spent a good hour on there perusing the site going back and forth on what were my absolute favorites, but I finally decided on two, the:

Woman's Chambray Workshirt
$44.50

and the Woman's Cord Mini Skirt
$39.50

Here's how I styled them.

(headband diy, scarf AE, chambray shirt courtesy of Land's End Canvas, belt vintage, gold sequin skirt LuLus.com, charcoal thigh-high socks UO, boots Charlotte Russe, bag vintage Mulberry)

(cloche hat Forever 21, tee Forever 21, stripe knit jacket Old Navy, flower pin diy, navy cord skirt courtesy of Land's End Canvas, watch AE, charcoal thigh-highs UO, brogues ASOS, beaded clutch gift from bestie)

I spent a little time reading through the reviews of each item, especially the size reviews. I'm glad I did as the shirt ran small and the skirt ran large, so I purchased accordingly and they both fit perfectly. Just a little suggestion before your order from the site, you'll be glad you did. Check out Canvas I'd love to know your favorites!

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Swimspot - Find your perfect suit

2010-12-06T09:41:00.001-08:00

Finding the perfect swimsuit can be daunting; at least for me it can. With so many different styles and fits it can be overwhelming, and knowing which style flatters which body shape and size can be even more confusing. Enter Swimspot.com, an online swim boutique full of designer swimwear lines; Ella Moss, Guess, Splendid, ST John, just to name a few. What's different about Swimspot.com is the ease of using the site(super user-friendly), free returns/exchanges, and their Fit Specialist Program where you can call or email them and they will walk you through your best choices for suits based on your individual needs. They also have this cool section called the Bikini Builder, which allows the customer to mix and match from the hundreds of suits on the site to your hearts content until you come up with the one you love. I especially love that feature because sometimes it's so much better to not match, plus it allows you to get creative with combos you might not think of. Fun!

Also here's a couple of tidbits of info from their site:

Swimspot.com has recently been named one of Lucky Magazines Top-10 designer swim suit websites
The suits are designed and produced in the USA

Here's a few I'm loving

Guess Steppin Out Bikini
$88

I love this one. It's your basic neutral string bikini, but the ruffles at a touch of girlie fun to it.

Guess She's Ditsy Underwire

$98

I'm not usually crazy about florals on swimwear but this cut works. It's lighthearted, girlie, playful, and reminds me of suits I wore as a girl, but just modernized and grown-up.

Hurley Line Drive Bandeau Bikini
$76

Stripes are almost always a sure fire bet. They're sporty, girlie, classic, and go with any beach cover up you throw at it. I adore this one.

There are lots more that I really liked, but head over and check out the selection for yourself, and be sure to try the Bikini Builder it's super fun! I'd love it if you let me know which ones caught your eye!

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The Look for Less - Natalie Portman

2010-12-02T09:33:00.001-08:00

Girl crush! I absolutely love and adore Natalie Portman. Mind you, not only because she is out-of-this-world beautiful, but also because she's got a good head on her shoulders, she's a smarty pants(she studied Psychology at Harvard), and she also a philanthropist who supports an innumerable amount of charities and causes. Recently Natalie appeared on David Letterman sporting this lovely yellow Valentino dress. Modcloth's "Look on the Sunny Side Dress" is really similar with a more affordable price tag, $87.99.

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Elle's 2010 Holiday Gift Guide

2010-11-30T18:39:00.000-08:00

Elle magazine has their 2010 Holiday Gift Guide up at Elle.com. There are some really lovely goodies, as well as some more interesting ones. Definitely worth a peak, if only for the eye candy or inspiration. My favs?

The 'Flowers in a can' via fredflare.com ($11 each),

the 'Rick Owens Shearling Jacket' via departmentfeminin.com ($2,974),

and the Land's End Tote Bag via canvas.landsend.com ($49.50)

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The Absolute Messenger Bag in Black

2010-11-30T18:03:00.000-08:00

I'm super excited as I was one of two Thanksgiving winners from Mimi Boutique! I won a $50 gift certificate to spend as I pleased, and after about fifteen minutes of browsing I came across this beauty and just had to have it! It's been shipped and should arrive shortly. Once I receive it I will post details and photos. You can see it here. What do you think about this style bag? What would you have chosen? Mimi favorites your loving right now? Do share!

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Tartan, Buffalo, Red, Check, Plaid, Love

2010-11-30T17:22:00.000-08:00

The weather here has been awful. Wind storms, snow, rain, rain, and some more rain. Luckily I love this kind of weather - from inside my warm little abode that is. Our wood stove has been cranking these past few weeks keeping us super cozy and warm, which has made me particularly drawn to winter cozy fabrics. Enter red and black plaid. I. adore. you.

via weheartit

via liberty.co.uk

via modcloth

via jcrew

vintage

via shopruche

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Trouvé 'Jenna' Bootie

2010-10-10T15:24:00.000-07:00

I love these Trouvé 'Jenna' Booties available at Nordstrom for $129.95.

I found a similar pair from Charlotte Russe which retails ON SALE for $30.00.

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Black & White & Pretty All Over

2010-10-10T07:51:00.000-07:00

via

Jacket: Black and White Striped Givenchy Jacket

Top: Unknown
Skirt: Unknown

Bag: Brown Croc Skin Bag - Unknown

Shoes: Black boots - Unknown

Get a similar look for less:

Bird by Juicy Couture - Zoe Blazer
$298.00

DV by Dolce Vita 'Nathaniel' Over the Knee Boot
$98

Distressed Leather Clutch
$18.50

Traditional Draped Necklace
$5.80

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Gauge Factor

2010-09-17T23:06:00.000-07:00

via Rain Level

I'm sorry but I just had to post about boots again. I came across these amazingly witty and super cute rubber boots and just had to share! How fun are these, seriously? I love all the color choices!

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Pearls, lace and ruffles - a fatshion blog Giveaway!

2010-09-17T12:36:00.000-07:00

I know I may be sabotaging my chances of winning this lovely giveaway by posting about it, but it's such a lovely giveaway, I wanted to share and make sure anyone who wants to gets a chance to win these beauties!

So hurry over if you're interested as the giveaway ends Friday 1st October at 9pm GMT.
Pearls, lace and ruffles ; a fatshion blog.: Giveaway!

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Regret or a Street in France

2010-09-15T16:20:00.000-07:00

Tomorrow is the official launch of the new online interior design magazine Rue. I'm super excited! Although, I'm not exactly sure what they were going for with the title but according to Mr. Webster, it's either:
a. regret, sorrow or remorse
or
b. a street or road in France

I'm leaning towards a street in France.

Regardless, I have high hopes for this venture, especially since my most favorite interior design magazine Domino, closed up shop.
Rue is curated by co-founders Crystal Gentilello of Plush Palate and Anne Sage of The City Sage, both amazing sites definitely worth a visit if you never have.

Also, Rue has given a sneak peek at some inside pages over at Apartment Therapy!

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Sequin Pants - Yay or Nay?

2010-09-13T16:11:00.001-07:00

Sequin pants. They're popping up everywhere from the runway, to mainstream stores, to the street. I am crazy about them!

What do you think about the sparkly trend? Will you be rocking them this season? Yay or nay?

Isabel Marant F/W 2010

Alice + Olivia Sequin Slim Pants
$286

J.Crew Sequin Harem Pants
$650

Balmain Sequined Cargo Pants
$3,590

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Jayma Inspired

2010-09-13T10:46:00.000-07:00

Confession: I've never watched Glee. I know, I know, I keep hearing people gush over how great of a show it is, so I suppose on of these days I'll give it a go and see what all the hullabaloo's about. But until then, I'd just like to point out how amazing Jayma Mays(if you're not familiar with Glee either, Jayma's one of the stars of the show) been looking lately. Proof? A little collage of her recent looks.

Collage via here

From left to right -

1. Preston & York Maggie Dress $47

2. Ruched Bandeau Dress $90

3. Sele Ruffle-Neck Halter Dress $49

4. ASOS Frill Drop Waist Sundress $40

5. LA Made Aster Drape Back Dress $37

6. Kensie Strapless Studded Denim Dress $69

I adore the first look! That peachy color and cut on her are perfection.

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The Other Crocs

2010-09-12T16:31:00.000-07:00

Rubber boots are one of my most favorite things in the whole wide world! Maybe it's silly, but I adore them. They can be so beautiful and fashionable, yet they're always functional no matter what. If money were no object I would buy tons, I tell you tons, of rubber boots. I know they're quite large and clunky and take up lots of space, I don't care, I'd hang them from the wall if need be. Currently I've been lusting over Jimmy's Crocodile-print Wellington boots.

Jimmy Choo Crocodile-print Wellington boots
$425.00

But considering they're way out of what my budget allows and I'd probably get violently sick from spending over four hundred dollars on rubber, I searched around the inter-web and found these lovelies. I know they're no Jimmy or Wellington, but they're similar enough for me and semi-affordable.

Chooka Crocodilia
$74.90

Cropped Khaki Trench

2010-09-12T13:43:00.000-07:00

A khaki trench is something that's timeless, classic, and can be practically worn with anything. Here are a few of my favorites right now.

Burberry Cropped Trench
$556.00

Esprit Belted Trench Coat
$163.50

Gap Cropped Trench Coat
$79.50

Express Ruffled-Bottom Trench Coat
$98.00

Cheers lovelies!

Ruche Autumn in Session Lookbook & Giveaway!

2010-08-27T08:23:00.000-07:00

Hurry over to here Ruche's blog to enter to win a lovely lovely bag!

Baron Wells - Cannes Shoot

2010-06-22T12:02:00.001-07:00

(images/clothes via Baron Wells)

Thank you Baron Wells for fueling my longing to visit France.

I Heart Vivienne Westwood

2010-06-22T10:13:00.000-07:00

Some things are so pretty, they don't need any explanation.

BURBERRY PRORSUM - Resort - Cruise 2011

2010-06-22T09:53:00.000-07:00

Lots of eye candy. I have a love affair with Prorsum. In my eyes, they can do no wrong. I would rock every single outfit above, and I can't say that about very many labels.

Bathing Beauties

2010-06-15T09:41:00.000-07:00

The sun has been shining and I just can't resist the sunniness and glamour in these pics! I think every girl should own one. With all the new modern renditions of the classic pin-up one piece, as well as all the vintage offerings, there's a suit for everyone! No girl should be without!

The Couture Manicure by Yves Saint Laurent

2010-06-14T17:40:00.000-07:00

From YSL Beauté ’s collection coming in August via Vogue France. The collection will feature a series of nail polishes that will be sold in duo’s. The idea is to create an edgy french manicure with striking color combinations: Belle de Jour( Turquoise & Purple), Rive Gauche ( Orange & Fushia), Belle de Nuit( Plum& Gold) and Y-Cone ( Pink & White). I adore the orange & fushia!

Topshop Victoria 2 Face + Cat Variety Ballet Flats!

2010-06-14T17:15:00.000-07:00

I've been coveting these oh so lovely flats via TopShop for quite some time now, and I missed out when they were back in stock recently(serious sad face). I am now on a serious hunt for them. I've already emailed TopShop, scoured ebaY, and searched through numerous personal 'shop my closet' blogs. I'm keeping my fingers crossed that my attempts are not in vain. And if you just so happen to come across either(in a size 8), would be be a dear and let me know, pretty please of course. Thanks loves.

Fiona Paxton Statement Lyon Necklace!

2010-06-14T09:56:00.000-07:00

Such a beauty. This statement necklace is one of the most amazing pieces I have EVER seen. The fierceness, sexiness, and neutral colors, make for one stunning and versatile gem. Love love love. See more images here.

Agyness Deyn’s Online Magazine Launched!

2010-06-14T09:27:00.000-07:00

Agyness Deyn launched an online magazine over the weekend with her friend Fiona Byrne. The site is called NAAG(a combination of the last two letters of Fiona's name and the first two of hers). Features include, beauty, fashion, culture, and places. Lot's of fresh articles, and internet only photo spreads.

Ben-Amun Sample Sale - Insanely Cheap Jewelry!

2010-06-14T09:07:00.000-07:00

If you're lucky enough to live in NYC , have some free time June 16th or 17th, and adore deeply discounted luxury designer jewelry(who doesn't, really?), I would highly recommend swinging by the Ben-Amun Sample Sale(details below).

For those like me who live across the country from this lovely event, or don't want to wait in line, don't despair, everyday they will pick a piece of jewelry to be sold super cheap (under $40) by calling 212-944-6480. The catch? It's only until 6PM or until they sell out.

Today's item is a pair of crystal earrings for $6 (retail $95).

To stay on top of the daily promos, follow their Facebook or Twitter.

What: Ben-Amun summer sample sale
When: Wednesday, Jun 16 - Thursday, Jun 17; noon-7PM
Where: Suite 12A @ 246 W 38th St (btw 7/8th Ave); 212-944-6480

LUCKY: Nautical-Inspired Dress for Just $20!

2010-06-14T08:58:00.000-07:00

Right now on LuckyMag.com you can get an exclusive code and score this little nautical beauty of a dress for $20! Such a amazing deal!

Head over to ShopRuche.com and enter 'luckydaily1' at checkout.

LuckyMag.com delivers a newsletter to your inbox every morning with exclusive 40-50% discounts that are only available for 24 hours! Don't miss out - sign up here.

Free People - Win a Trip To WANDERLUST!

2010-06-11T16:56:00.001-07:00

Enter to win a free trip to Wanderlust from Free People! This would be so amazing! Click the banner above to enter! Yay!

'Eat Less' Urban Outfitters T-Shirt

2010-06-03T07:31:00.000-07:00

I had to take a second look. Alas, it was true, and this isn't the first time Urban Outfitters has engaged in controversial activities. I find the "Eat Less" V-Neck Tee seriously offensive and not a topic to joke about or take lightly. With a clientele demographic of mostly young adult females, they are blatantly telling them to starve themselves. While I realize a large percentage of Americans are obese or overweight, I also realize and am empathetic to the large percentage of young impressionable, self conscious young women who look up to and adore Urban Outfitters.

This behavior is disrespectful to all women regardless. It's indecent, rude, and just plain uncalled for.

Below is a snapshot of their BDG Burnout Henley Tee(no longer available as of Monday), which gives you a color selection of White/Charcoal...and Obama/Black. So wrong and tacky.

What do you think? If you have thoughts you'd like to share with Urban Outfitters shoot them an email here: service@urbanoutfitters.com

Look For Less: J.Crew Linen Bustier Dress

2010-05-28T10:08:00.000-07:00

Yesterday I received the new J.Crew catalog and it's just amazing! I love everything in it. Especially all the swimwear. I'm craving a white summer dress and came across J.Crews Linen-silk bustier dress $198(below),

and although I'm sure it's exquisite, it's a little more than I want to pay. While digging around I found an almost identical version by Kimichi Blue $68(below), that looks just as lovely for much less. I also love the demure girly details, and that it can easily be dressed up or down.

All Business

2010-05-27T10:05:00.001-07:00

(click to enlarge)

(top: Forever 21, shorts: AE, tights: DKNY, heels: LuLus, belt: grosgrain ribbon, bag: vintage aligator skin, shades: Forever 21, necklace: made by me)

ModCloth Style By The Mile Lookbook

2010-05-26T11:01:00.000-07:00

Right now on ModCloths homepage they have the loveliest lookbook slideshow! Browse through and shop by outfit if you wish! I adore all the outfits and visit daily to browse and daydream of all the outfits I'd put together. Do you have a site you do the same? Do share!

CocoBella Beauty Giveaway!

2010-05-22T14:17:00.000-07:00

The lovely Nikki over at COCOBELLA is hosting a fabulous giveaway for her followers! The winner will receive the items pictured above. Hurry over and enter before June 5th 11:59 p.m.

I Heart You - Shopbop $100 Giveaway!

2010-05-19T19:15:00.001-07:00

The lovely Paige is hosting a giveaway for a $100 Shopbop gift card! Sweeeeet!
Hurry over to enter here by Sunday, May 30th. Good luck!

LOFT AND LUCKY Personal Style Contest Winner!

2010-05-15T12:12:00.000-07:00

When Lucky Magazine's Merchandising Director Rebecca emailed me earlier this week that I was the Grand Prize winner of the Lucky Style Spotter 'LOFT AND LUCKY Personal Style Contest' I was super excited! So excited I jumped up from my chair and danced in my kitchen! Whoo hoo baby!(silly girl). My win consists of an AMAZING $500 Ann Taylor LOFT giftcard, and a $350 swag bag! Yay!

In celebration of Lucky Magazine and Ann Taylor LOFT's generousity, I am going to pick out something from LOFT to giveaway on the blog!

So stay tuned, become a follower and subscribe as I will be announcing the details of the giveaway soon!

Also, above is my first attempt at 'vlogging'. Sorry my voice is almost gone from yelling at a local festival that's happening and my daughter Sophia makes a little cameo too! Enjoy!

Lazy days

2010-05-13T10:20:00.000-07:00

(top: forever 21, blazer: JCREW, denim: AE, oxfords: ASOS, scarf: Old Navy, shades: forever 21, bag: handmade - d.i.y)

Vibrant Point Of View | Mode Cosmetics Giveaway

2010-05-03T09:43:00.001-07:00

Hurry over to Vibrant Point Of View to enter to win 6 current Mode Cosmetics shades of your choice! So fun! Giveaway is limited to the first 50 followers so be quick like!

Enter here!

Kohl's Gift Card Giveaway | Hair On The Brain

2010-05-03T09:15:00.000-07:00

Hair On The Brain is having a fun giveaway for two Kohl's giftcards($25, $50)! Super easy entry and a fun way to maybe win a pair of shoes, or spend it however you like!

Enter here!
(Ends May 16th, 2010)

Alice

2010-04-27T14:48:00.001-07:00

Alright one more non-related fashion post, but my love for Alice in Wonderland provoked me. Plus I have yet to really pay attention to what an IPAD is or what it's about, but let me just say, this got my attention. Looks like this my be the future of interactive books. I'm pumped.

iRetrofone Base

2010-04-26T11:49:00.000-07:00

Okay this is obviously not fashion related(hey there's a lot more to us, right?), but when I came across this on WIRED I just had to post this. Isn't is just fantastic? I love the sleek lines, tongue-in-cheek design, and throwback inspiration. Perfection really. It's designed and made by Freeland Studios and sells for $195.

Ambitious

2010-04-26T11:16:00.000-07:00

I've been eyeing this dress from See By Chloe for a little bit now, and as I'm no professional seamstress, I do however have some years of playing around with my sewing machine and whipping up some semi-reasonable projects. Yup, you guessed it. I'm about to attempt to re-create a similar dress, as the pattern looks manageable and I'm in no way able to afford the $495 price tag on the original. Wish me luck! And I'll be keeping you updated on the progress(or failure)(smiles).

Ever attempted something similar like this? Advice? Thoughts?

Kick Up Your Heels - Or Brogues

2010-04-26T10:34:00.000-07:00

Lately I've been on a brogues kick. Not sure why, maybe because they're bad ass, or maybe I just get obsessed with something pretty and must seek out the vast selection available as to not short-change myself. This morning I came across these beauties by Ralph Lauren Collection, but being the student I am, came up a little short(okay a lot short) on the $665 price tag.
Happily though I came across an almost identical pair by Steve Madden. Whoo hoo look alikes!

(Ralph Lauren Collection Cream/Black Brinkley $665)
Click Photo To Shop

(Steve Madden Women's Tuxxedo $69.95)
Click Photo To Shop

Just to get this out and make this clear right away I'm am adamantly opposed to 'knock-offs', ie. counterfeit goods masquerading as the original/real thing. But I'm not opposed to items that are made inspirationally from other items.
My take is that there are rarely new items produced that are indeed of a profound, new, and never been made before nature, that almost every fashion related item produced is indeed inspired by another(purposefully or not). This is a very subjective subject, as 'to each their own', as it should be, but buying straight up 'knock-offs' produced under horrible illegal conditions/practices is just WRONG - so please don't it.

Glorious Graphics

2010-04-11T16:07:00.000-07:00

(click to shop)

Victoria Beckham was spotted in this little Dolce & Gabbana number not too long ago, and when I saw it I loved the graphic print and body hugging cut - very 60's bombshell. I recently came across a similar dress by Nicole Miller. Although darker, more like the opposite version of Dolce's, the dress is just as lovely none-the-less. I know neither are on spot with Spring's trends but I just had to post I adore them so much!

Bright + Sunny

2010-04-10T11:50:00.001-07:00

Tube swim dress: Target
Scarf: Target
Cardigan: Old Navy
Necklace: Vintage
Sunglasses: Forever 21
Jeans: AE
Heels: Vintage

Easter was rush rush rush, and busy busy busy, but the weather was sunny and crisp and called for something cheery to match! Easter was also the day I left for my holiday in San Diego so I wore something easy and comfortable.
Spending time with family was so nice. The kiddos always make for great entertainment!

Hope your Easter holiday was lovely!

San Diego & Sun

2010-04-08T08:43:00.000-07:00

Sorry for the lack of posts as of late. I am on holiday in sunny San Diego! I will begin posting again starting Fri.
Cheers!
xo

Balmain - FAIL

2010-04-01T11:53:00.000-07:00

(Balmain - Slashed army t-shirt $1,625)

When I saw this, I thought for sure it must be an April Fools gag. But alas, ummm no, it's not. Don't get me wrong, I'm all for the worn-in distressed look, but actual holes you can pratically fit your fist in, that's something different all together. Insult to injury? Add a price tag of, well lets see, $1,625, and you come up with a big fat FAIL. So sad as I adore Balmain, but this is just a waste of material.

If you're thinking of sporting the distressed/holes t-shirt look, save yourself a fortune and break out your trusty ole' scissors! Done. And done.

Urban Outfitters April Fools Day Sale

2010-04-01T10:04:00.000-07:00

April Fools One Day Only Offer
10% Off All Orders using Code APRILFOOLS

No minimum purchase required.

Excludes electronics, furniture, gift cards and bikes.

This offer CAN be used multiple times.

This discount CANNOT be combined with any other offer.
Web only.

Today only!

SHOP NOW!

The Last Straw

2010-03-31T11:06:00.000-07:00

I'm a hat girl. A full fledged hat wearing, hat tipping, hat tossing gal. I have a collection of hats I wear all the time, and am always on the hunt for another one to add to my collection. Lately I've been finding myself searching for straw hats. Granted, straws are a minority in my collection, but maybe that's why I'm craving one so badly. I'm also tempted to attribute my desire for one to the fact that growing up I wore one practically all summer long at our family's cabin. My sisters did as well. In fact, it's the first thing we'd do after we arrived(besides plopping our bags down), was run to the the rustic bunk room and grab those tried-and-true old straw hats from off the dresser. We each wore the same one from the previous year, and would inspect each other and ourselves in the mirror, laughing that we looked like female versions of Tom Sawyer or Huck Finn.

I miss those days. Although the new straw will never replace the old tried-and-true rustic straw, these lovelies are calling my name. It will be hard to choose just one.

Do you have a favorite hat? Style of hat? Hat-a-phobic? Do share!

Deena & Ozzy Tiny Straw Hat

Goldie Straw Floppy Hat

Juicy Couture PomPom Straw Sun Hat

eBay Launches "Fashion Vault" Site

2010-03-31T07:44:00.000-07:00

On Monday eBay officially broke into the world of high fashion by launching Fashion Vault. The site is a collaboration between eBay and retailers to offer designer clothing at hefty discounts, but only for short periods of time. Similar to invitation only shopping sites like, Rue La La, Gilt Group, and Haute Look, the site will feature 48 to 72 hour 'flash' sales.

To celebrate the offcial launch, the site is offering goods from French Connection for up to 60% off!

New sales begin April 5th!

Visit the Fashion Vault, and follow their Twitter updates here to be the first to know about new sales!

I have to say I'm pretty excited to see what they have to offer!

Check out some new items from French Connection below!

french connection

ASOS MACKENZIE Leather Lace-Up Brogue

2010-02-15T14:01:00.001-08:00

I just purchased the 'MACKENZIE Leather Lace-Up Brogue' leather oxfords from ASOS yesterday and can't wait to get them! They are so cute and come in two colors black and multi. I ordered the multi, but was tempted to order both they're both so darn cute! I've been loving oxfords lately and searching high and low for the cutest ones. For me the multi fit the bill. What about you? What have you been loving lately?