Strap Happy

It's time for a pedicure and to show off those toes in peep toe and strappy heels. There are a lot of shoe styles for dressing up that are the same from last year, which may allow for you to hold onto those you purchased before. However, if you are looking to add one fun pair to your closet this season, here are some cute options.


1. Nine West Metallic is such a versatile option because it easily pairs with all colors. Also, these heels have both a woven/metallic look: two hot trends for summer shoes.

2. Aldo I had posted earlier about nude shoes. A great pair of peep toe heels in a neutral shade help elongate your leg and can compliment any style or color combination.

3. Nordstrom If you don't like to wear sky-high heels, these are perfect. With a lower heel, they still sport the strappy look for the season. Plus, they blend both neutral and metallic tones.

4. DSW If you are looking for a black shoe to match a black dress, maybe rethink your options with something like this heel. It incorporates all neutrals but is a little bit different. Keep in mind that this style of shoe is better on a narrow foot.

Zapped!

My friend Devin alerted me to this amazing product that will help everyone in some capacity. G.M. Collin Skin Clear Gel is a spot treatment that has the ability to diminish the appearance of blemishes overnight. I don't know about you, but something that prevents huge welts from showing up on my face.......SOLD!!!!

G.M. Collin Skin Clear Gel

Boys to Men

I haven't posted a lot for men thus far, but thought I would put one out there for the guys that may be interested. Here are some spring shirts that would be nice to wear with jeans, shorts, or khakis.

1. The Original Penquin Spring colors are popping into the plaid shirt styles that are still in for warmer weather. Paired with jeans or khakis, this style of shirt can be casual (untucked with sneakers) or dressy (tucked in with loafers).

2. Jcrew This lightweight shirt is really easy to wear over a white v-neck shirt open, or buttoned with the sleeves rolled. It definitely boasts a more casual look.

3. Polo Ralph Lauren I have learned through my husband that the custom-fit polo looks a lot cleaner and dressy than the classic fit. Choose a bright color for spring to wear with a track jacket or spring coat.

4. Banana Republic When the weather warrants some layering, this zipped sweater would work well as a pseudo-jacket. Over a collared or polo shirt, it will provide warmth and maintain style.

5. Lands End Canvas Having read GQ and Esquire a few times, I noticed that this new line from Lands End has been featured more and more. This blazer is wonderful for spring/summer and can look rugged and formal at the same time. It can be worn over anything, even a simple T-Shirt.

Laura Mercier- must haves

In the past I have given my MAC must have items. This time I am reviewing Laura Mercier Products. When in New York at the makeup counter I explored some new items that I had not yet tried and these are my faves.....


1. Foundation Primer- A long time fan of the tinted moisturizer, I had not tried the primer beforehand. It totally helps the moisturizer soak into your face and gives it an almost "dewey," fresh look.

2. Tinted Moisturizer This is my second post about this product, but I honestly love it. I know a lot of you already use this particular moisturizer, but make sure you have the right shade for your current skin color. Also, the oil-free version is nice for summer because it doesn't add shine.

3. Concealer When applied with a great brush, this concealer is fantastic for under-eye darkness. When I was at the makeup counter the girl applied it under my eyes where I was a bit puffy and it really helped decrease the appearance of bags. You will have to go to the counter to get the correct shade vs. buying online.

4. Eye serum While a little more expensive, this serum really is worth the money. It is cooling and moisturizing. It is great if you are like me and don't want a thick moisturizer all over your face, just in the delicate zones. You can apply before makeup and look refreshed under those eyes.

Shower Style

I am sure many of you either have a bridal or baby shower to attend this spring. Sometimes it can be hard to find something to wear for such an event. I found a few dresses that work for both of these occasions, or for fun daytime socializing.


1. Bcbg Jersey dresses are perfect for day because they can look more casual with flats, or more dressy with heels. This particular dress would look great with nude or camel colored strappy sandals.

2. BB Dakota Another great day dress to pair with gladiator sandals. Or, for evening, throw on a brightly colored cardigan with chunky wedge heels.

3. Armani Exchange Another dress that would look great with a bright cardigan or fitted jacket. Any type of shoe works with this style and color as well. Pair with large bracelets to complete the look.

4. Ann Taylor Loft A silk dress for under $100! It can easily be dressed down with metallic flats/sandals. A large necklace looks great with this simple style.

5. Bloomingdales This dress is classy. It exudes simple elegance. Paired with suede strappy nude heels and you will look like a million bucks.

Friday Fave Five

1. Hackney Satchel This bag is beautiful. I was surprised to find it at JCrew given that I usually am not impressed by their handbags. It really is a fantastic spring/summer color with hardware details that add an expensive look. While it may be over your price range, look for sales (if you are a student you automatically get 20%) that may give you a bargain on accessories.

2. Boar Bristle Brush Apparently I am behind the times on the brush revolution. I had a lengthy discussion last night on the amazing benefits of using a boar bristle/nylon hairbrush. It is supposed to really help straighten hair while you blow dry without creating flyaways. It also redistributes the oils from your scalp to the dried ends.... worth checking out!

3. Chanel Nail Polish- Chanel's new Particuliere (search for color "Particuliere") nail polish is amazing. It has been all over the fashion magazines, but more importantly, is a great spring color. It provides the drama of the dark polishes, and the style of the grey polishes, but is more unique.

4. Ellie Tahari Flats I tried on these flats and fell in love with their look. They are dressy flats but have a sneaker-style bottom for walking at length. There is a bit of metallic on the heel and they look fantastic with skinny jeans or leggings.

5. Cardigans Still in need of some bright cardigans to transition from jackets to t-shirts? These are affordable and in a bunch of cute colors.

Must Have Item of the Day

Quick post on a MUST HAVE item. These sandals were in my most recent InStyle magazine and I thought they were a terrific deal. However, my desire to buy them increased once I visited New York and noticed very high-end stores carrying similar styles at five times the price. I assume they will sell-out soon, so grab them now to wear with cropped jeans, dresses, skirts, and even shorts. PS, they are under $80.


Franco Sarto Shoes

Jeg-Jeg-Jeggings!

Enough of the legging.....now its the Jegging. Jean leggings are still making waves and really allow for you to wear a jean "look" in a more comfortable way. Skinny jeans can be stiff and tight, whereas jeggings are more soft and comfortable. Any body type can wear this style its just important to balance your tight bottoms with an appropriate top. If you are more self-conscious, pair a flowy racerbank silk tank with your jeggings. If you like your upper body, wear a v-neck t-shirt with a scarf. There are a bunch of styles in various prices so that if you don't want to commit, you won't break the bank.


1. BDG legging- BDG makes super soft jeans, so these will probably feel more like a traditional legging.
2. Joes Jeans The zippered side creates a more rocker look to the jegging.
3. A&F Abercrombie makes jeans for girls with hips, so these may be a great option if you have curves.
4. TopShop Topshop was one of the first boutiques to introduce the Jegging to the USA, therefore makes a great fit.
5. Forever 21 These are under $20, therefore a great way to try out the jegging without the cash commitment.

Cool Shades

1. Ray Ban Aviators are super flattering to any face shape and this season, the plastic rimmed ones are in! These are sexy and sporty at the same time.

2. Diane Von Furstenberg If you still crave the oversized glasses look, these are perfect. Throw these on and no makeup required. They also can make a shabby outfit look expensive.

3. Marc by Marc Jacobs Colored frames are huge for this spring as a style trend. If you can't commit to a pair that screams color, these are perfect. They are a subtle shade of purple that will highlight any skin tone.

4. BCBG Have a smaller face shape? These are a great style for anyone that loves larger glasses, but has a smaller face that can't hold that style.

5. Michael Kors These glasses scream "beach", "pool", or "boat". A perfect style to throw on with a swimsuit and head outside without the worry of losing a $300 pair of glasses. They are sturdy and chic.

Cover-UP

Sometimes a bathing-suit cover-up can be just as hard to find as the actual suit itself. Here are some great options that won't leave you embarrassed when traveling to and from the pool or beach.


1. Embroidered Tunic This colorful Tunic will keep you looking classy at the pool or beach.

2. Tube Dress The nice thing about this dress is that it works as a cover-up but also as a sundress.

3. Maxi Dress If you want a cover up that can allow you to parade through a nice hotel lobby on your way to the pool, this maxi dress is a great option.

4. Tunic This is a great cover up that is lightweight, but looks expensive.

5. One-Shoulder This is another cover-up that would easily transition into a casual day dress with flat sandals.

Roll-up your sleeves

Men's style shirts are great for spring. They look great when you roll up the sleeves and pair with a fitted bottom half. You can easily leave them open with a camisole underneath, or buttoned up with a metallic belt to match. Happy shopping!

1. Jcrew checked shirt This is a lightweight top that easily pairs with denim, white, or khaki pants. Roll up the sleeves and add a white cami underneath

2. Gap- Chambray is big for spring. This grey style is wonderful because it pairs nicely with a lot of bottoms. You could put it with black skinny jeans and flats for a very urban chic look.

3. Joes Jeans The Shirt Joes has created a variety of menswear shirts for women that are cut narrow along the torso and are really soft and versatile. This style of shirt would look great with skinny cropped jeans or Bermuda shorts.

4. Zara Zara has a ton of menswear-inspired shirts that are well-made and low priced. There is a red one in particular that is more roomy, therefore requiring jeggings or skinny jeans on bottom. For Chicago residents there is now another location of Zara open in the loop (state and randolph area).

Have a Spring wedding or event to go to? Need some dresses in stock for the upcoming season of showers, birthdays, and the derby? Here are a bunch of cute, easy dresses that are all under $200. Enjoy!

1. BCBG dress This is an easy, formal, dress that adds a pop of color to black. Pair with black shoes, a black clutch, and simple jewelry.

2. Banana Republic little black dress If you are feeling black is your go-to for the moment, this is a staple dress that has a cute low-back.

3. Trina Turk This floral dress is great for showers, birthdays, formal brunch, or just for day. Pair with gold gladiator sandals or brightly colored strappy heels.

4. Aqua Dress Ruffles create a girly/sexy look. This dress needs a fun large belt to cinch the waist and add some style.

5. Miss Me Couture This is a fantastic dress for a summer wedding/rehearsal dinner. It requires some color to the skin so make sure to save it for after you've caught a few rays:)

6. Bebe Maxi dress Maxi dresses make a return this year. This one is flowy and fun. Always pair with flat sandals, or a slight wedge if you find the dress too long. Dramatic earrings, long necklaces, and bracelets would add some hippy flare to this dress as well.

7.Top Shop A simple, classic, dress that has versatility. You could pair with red shoes for a night out, nude platforms for a day event, or flats to hang out.

GLAD-iator

If you are ready to transition your closet from winter to spring/summer, footwear is important to pay attention to. This summer, the gladiator sandal is going to still be a must-have item. They are comfortable, easy to wear with dresses, and usually need to be replaced each season per wear-and-tear. So, get shopping right now for at least one or two pairs in order to get a leg-up on the summer fashion.

1. Victoria Secret These are super fun because they can look dressy and would look wonderful with a maxi-dress or cut-off shorts and a t-shirt.

2. Dolce Vita A simple black pair with embellishment will serve your summer wardrobe well. Bring these to a wedding where you know your feet will be killing you after an hour, and still look classy while you dance the night away.

3. Kensie Girl By choosing a pair of gladiators that are a bright color, you can look trendy even when pairing with a simple tank top and black skirt.

4. Report Sandals Another great embellished sandal that will look great with all patterns and colors this summer.

Hot items for Warmer weather

Now that the magazines and stores have featured spring/summer styles, I have been keeping my eye out for fun finds. Here are a few things that I think will help add to your existing wardrobe from last year.



1. Skinny belt This brightly colored skinny belt is a must for spring/summer this year. These belts cinch cardigans, flowy tops, or dresses with a burst of color. I would buy one in a bright color that compliments most of the colors you have in your closet.

2. Lightweight cardigan When you want to wear something lighter than a jacket, but heavier than a tank top, these cardigans are perfect. In bright, fun shades, you can pair with a white or black tank top and a skinny belt. You can easily wear boyfriend jeans rolled up with flats or skinny jeans and wedge heels.

3. Ruffle Dress Ruffles are in for the next season, and this dress is super cute. Paired with tall suede boots and a denim jacket, this dress can be shifted into a more casual look. For evening or an event, pair with black strappy heels and a chunky bangle.

4. Neutral heel A neutral colored heel will be a great item to pick up for this spring. Not only does it go with every possible color, but having a nude style creates the appearance of a longer leg (something we all desire).

5. Menswear watch Buy yourself a men's style watch to add as an accessory this spring! They are great to wear by themselves with a v-neck tee and jeans, or layered with other bright bracelets to make a statement.

Shopping and the "Bump"

As many of you know, I am pregnant. Which, unfortunately, has started to put a damper on shopping. Yesterday, I visited my first maternity store, and found the experience to be dreadful. It seemed as though the dresses were all made out of super thin jersey (which is not flattering when you are bulging everywhere), and very pricey for what you were getting. So, I skipped out of that store and made my way to other "normal" shops to find items that even a growing pregnant girl can wear. Here are a few of my finds (since these items are not "maternity" they may be useful to you non-pregnant blog followers as well)....

1. BCBG tunic- If you buy this tunic a few sizes up, it really looks cute and fits nicely. You can pair it with leggings or jeans. I tried it on, so can vouch for its ability to fit a "bump."

2. BCBG T-shirt This t-shirt comes in a few colors and is super stretchy and long. Again, opt for a size or two up and you can layer it over a tank top, paired with a cropped jacket, for a cute look.

3. BCBG printed dresses- These dresses look deceiving online and in the store, however the polyester/spandex blend is really stretchy, doesn't wrinkle, and fits very comfortably. I tried this particular dress on in a size up, and think it will work for the workplace (with a jacket on top) or out with heels and a cardigan. They have a wrap dress in this material that also fits well.

4. American Apparel- I think I have professed my undying love for these leggings pre-pregnancy over and over. But, now I have the joy that they work well with an expanding stomach. The high-waist acts as a band of sorts and really holds everything in. If you are later in your pregnancy I would opt for a size up so the constricting band doesn't feel too tight. They have a regular or shiny black option for casual/evening. These are a must for anyone (pregnant or not).

5. Banana republic layering tank This tank top is great because of its loose bottom and flowy style. Paired with jeans and a bright sweater, it would be a great basic piece for layering.

6. Pea in the Pod jeans At some point, I will have to break down and buy some maternity jeans. This is the one item that I think you can't buy anywhere but a maternity store. I haven't narrowed down an exact pair yet, but am leaning towards skinny jeans (I know its an oxymoron- skinny maternity jeans). Skinny jeans work well with flats, and the longer, boot cut styles, really only work with heels. Also, if your top is on the baggy side, its best to go with a slimmer bottom. One note is that the J-brand maternity jeans (which I did try on) do not have the high waistband. Therefore, they sort of ride low, which could be uncomfortable.

6. Joes Jeans- This jacket is super cool and would look great with a loose t-shirt or tank top underneath. It could work as a spring jacket while the temps are still low, and black is a wonderfully slimming color choice.

Update:

Hey guys,
One quick note: I have been asked to post pictures of each item next to its link in order to save the trouble of moving back and forth between browser pages. Unfortunately, some pictures are copyright protected and therefore don't let me use them in my blog unless you view them directly in their own website. Sorry:) So, one suggestion I have is to open the link I post by right clicking on it (if you have a PC) and opening it in a new "tab" or "window" so it doesn't navigate away from the blog while you view it. Just a suggestion, hope it helps! Thanks for reading!

Spring in your step

Since posting about spring coats, I have also been wondering about cute spring shoe options. Often I find that flats work well in transition months because you aren't exposing toes, but still can play around with color and texture. Here are some cute flats that could last until summer and then probably again in early fall.

1. Topsiders Many of you are probably thinking topsiders are really a blast from the past. However, they are making a huge comeback and in fun textures and colors. This pink choice is great for a rainy spring day with a trench and a green cardigan.

2. Aldo These remind me of Chanel, but at a much better price. Also, these can easily transition from the workplace to evening with skinny jeans and a cute top (or motorcycle jacket).

3. House of Harlow A bit more pricey, these are going to be sought after big time this spring. As part of Nicole Ritchie's new fashion line, these are really useful walking shoes with a high fashion look.

4. Jessica Simpson Early spring looks can seem drab in terms of color, so by adding footwear with a "pop" you can de-winterize your style. Turquoise looks great with all skin tones and matches most shades of color.

5. Nordstrom This shoe has been showing up in magazines and in boutiques left and right. It is red, which allows the shoe to act as your main accessory, and is jeweled, which dresses it up.

M.B.B. - medium black bag

I had a request for medium sized black purses, so I went on the hunt. There are a lot of great options out there but I tried to chose classic styles that would last. I also tried to chose types that will last for years, not just a season or two.

1. Marc by Marc Jacobs- This medium-sized black bag is reasonably priced and will last through the years b/c of its simple style. I am a huge fan of Marc by March because of the fact that it is still a designer label, for a bit less.

2. Cole Haan- Another simple, classic black tote. This easily carries from office to a night out because of subtle chain detailing.

3. Michael Kors- A great price for a simple, easy to carry black bag.

4. Furla- Its important that if you chose a black bag, go with good leather, like this one so it looks expensive even if it isn't.

5. Tory Burch- Yet another classic, simple, black bag that isn't huge or tiny. A great medium bag that will last ages.

6. Makowsky- A bargain for real leather and metallic detaiing

Update on spring jackets...

FYI. I went to H&M this weekend and they have a host of cute trench/rain coats on display. All really great styles and inexpensive. Just another place to look.... Happy shopping!

Spring showers bring cute jackets!

I am still thinking of the end of winter. Therefore, I am beginning the search for stylish rain/spring coats that will carry everyone from chilly temps to milder ones. These are some options for jackets that will provide some wetness protection, but still allow you to look good.


1. Anthropologie Trench The ruffle detail on this trench makes it super feminine as well as allowing you to wear it with both dresses and pants. Khacki is the classic trench color because it goes with everything!

2. J Crew A spring twist on the boyfriend blazer which we've all grown to love in winter. This style can carry you through fall with jeans, leggings, or dresses.

3. Banana Republic This is definitely a more traditional trench/raincoat. However, hauling yourself to and from work everyday sometimes requires a staple piece that is stylish and functional at the same time. The one thing is to buy a very fitted size and don't be afraid to have it tailored so that it doesn't look like a parachute.

4. Ann Taylor Loft This jacket fits the military trend for spring with the style and color. Also, it will be great to throw on to run errands, day dates, or to work.

5. Club Monaco If only Club Monaco had online shopping! This picture shows how you can take a classic trench coat and pair it with your party dress to look stylish and smart . I love this navy coat as dark blues are really popular for spring as well.