Category Archives: Fashion

Lucky Brand Haul: Topper Jacket Edition

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Lucky Brand Haul: Topper Jacket Edition

Hellooo everyone! While vacationing in Asheville, North Carolina, I planned on saving money during the week. However, a trip to the outlet malls utterly destroyed that and I ended up going way too hard at the Lucky Brand discount shop. In my defense, though, I scored some excellent deals and I finally got to actually shop in their store as opposed to waiting for TJMaxx to have some Lucky goodies available to purchase.

If I do have a Lucky Brand near me in Ohio, it is definitely not an outlet location so I wanted to take full advantage of the experience. And, even when TJs does have Lucky items, it is usually just sunnies and jewelry – which are nice. But, it’s not a full blown clothing item, which I so lust after.

During my Lucky haul, I was able to curb the desire for some actual Lucky’s clothing and ended up with four items for about one hundred and forty bucks, which I considered a steal, because the original price on most of the items was one hundred! I also had a twenty-five dollar off coupon and received fifteen percent off when getting approved for their credit card, which dwindled the total down fifty-five dollars. So, no one can say I didn’t shop smart. Or stylish, for that matter, because check this beauty out:

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There is no denying that Lil Red loves a good jacket. I am absolutely addicted to them and, as soon as I saw this gorgeous, wheat colored topper jacket I knew that I needed it. It is honest to god as comfortable as slipping on a bathrobe but the sleek shape, cool color, and fleecey fabric keeps it looking nice and chic. As a shorter girl, I strive to create the illusion of length in all of my OOTDs and the straight lines in this coat make this possible. And, thanks to the slinky fabric, it still feels like it fits like a glove so it doesn’t overpower my petite frame.

The golden wheat color is just phenomenal and I love the way it looks when the light hits it because the poly/cotton blend fabric provides a dazzling sheen. Although this is a fairly simple piece, it makes a bold statement. This, in turn, makes styling it a breeze. All one need do is throw on a killer pair of trousers, your favorite turtle neck, a heeled ankle bootie, and a necklace to hit at the V-neck and you are all set!

Are there any stores that you love but are not close to you? How do you shop smart at outlet malls? I want to hear from all of you, so leave me a comment and let’s chat! Much love. -Sarah

If The Shoe Fits: Formentini Heeled Boots Edition

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If The Shoe Fits: Formentini Heeled Boots Edition

Hello! It wouldn’t be the fall season without purchasing a new pair of boots, which was the last item on my list during my fall haul at TJMaxx. Despite a few pairs that I sort of liked, none of them did it for me so returns were made and, although I have a ton of boots, I felt like I was empty handed. That is, until my beautiful new taupe suede darlings by Formentini came along. Check it out:

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Although the light colored suede of these boots might not be the most practical come winter time, I am totally okay with only sporting them in the fall. They include everything that I love in a boot like the high shaft, a bit of rocker embellishment, a good heel, and *most importantly*, the fact that the heel is covered with suede as opposed to plain old rubber.

I absolutely despise when a gorgeous shoe is destroyed by a thick, chunky rubber heel and refuse to buy the boots if they have that major character flaw. I am obsessed with creating long lines when it comes to dressing my bottom half and such an abrupt breakup in the flow from color to rubber definitely ruins the illusion of legs for days.

At one hundred smackers, these boots hit right at my cut off point for when I am buying a new pair. I believe in shelling out for clothes, shoes, and accessories of high quality as well as for things that I really like. And, these Formentini knee highs met all of these requirements and then some because of all of the exciting styling possibilities.

I am very much looking forward to wearing my new boots over knitted tights along with sweet long sleeved dresses this fall. They will also look charming with A-line skirts and a peacoat or topper jacket that will hit just at the top of the shaft for an OOTD perfect for keeping you warm but still chic once the cold weather strikes. Love it!

How do you prep your wardrobe for a change in the weather? What is your favorite type of boot? I want to hear from all of you, so leave me a comment and let’s chat! Much love. -Sarah

Hats Off: Lefenice Newsboy Cap Edition

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Hats Off: Lefenice Newsboy Cap Edition

Hi hi! If you are a fashionista like myself, then I am sure that you have seen the classic Meryl Streep and Anne Hatheway movie The Devil Wears Prada more than a few times. I absolutely adore it and will watch it every chance I get. The actors, the fashion, the fashion, the fashion – it’s just perfect and I will never forget going to see it in theaters with my mom, sister, and late grandma and gabbing about our favorite outfits on the way out.

Although my style is definitely more Emily Blunt in TDWP, Anne’s character, Andy, turns into quite the it girl herself after a much needed transformation. And, my latest Hats Off purchase seen below is inspired by one of her killer OOTDs. Check it out:

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See the resemblance?!

I am a huge fan of hats but have never owned a newsboy cap before. This is certainly not due to a lack of desire for one but because I have never found just the right cap for me. I found this Lafenice number on TJMaxx’s online site, big surprise, and I went with it even thought I wasn’t completely sold on the idea. But, this mild hesitation was squashed the moment I took it out of the box and placed it upon my crowning glory. I love the tweedy grey and yellow pattern, the small flower embellishments, and, mainly, that it gives me such TDWP vibes so hard.

Like Andy in TDWP, I plan on wearing my newsboy cap with peacoats, of course. But, also with my new white faux fur jacket to add a touch of mod to such a posh piece. This cap will also look especially charming with a smart black blazer and skinnies for an updated take on a more menswear style for women. Not only is this new hat versatile, but it is also nice and warm and will keep me feeling cozy all fall and winter long!

Who else is a fan of The Devil Wears Prada? What is your favorite OOTD from that movie? I want to hear from all of you, so leave me a comment and let’s chat! Much love. -Sarah

Trail Blazers: Vince Camuto Edition

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Trail Blazers: Vince Camuto Edition

Salutations! If I had to name my favorite piece of clothing, I would probably have to say that I love the outerwear family. From moto jackets and peacoats to blazers and vests, I am a huge fan of all of it. A good jacket can make or break an outfit and can take something from simple to extraordinary by simply slipping it on. This has always been appealing to me and is why I love cold weather clothing so much because I have quite the outerwear collection. And, I got to add to it with this gorgeous new hounds tooth blazer by Vince Camuto. Take a look:

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  • Original Price: $180
  • TJMaxx Price: $50!!!

Although I only have one pair of shoes by Vince Camuto in my arsenal, I have admired his brand and beautiful creations for some time. So, it is always exciting to get something from a designer that you love for a fraction of the cost. And, I have to say, I was absolutely and completely thrilled to get this blazer in the mail. Just seeing it on the TJMaxx website gave me chills and it was one of those pieces that I knew was going to work without even having to try it on. I love when that happens!

Obviously, I was right – the blazer did work or we wouldn’t be here discussing it! But, it didn’t just work, it fucking slayed. Everything about this blazer from the hounds tooth pattern to the huge faux fur cuffs screams posh It Brit style to me and I am so there for it. My new Vinny C number looks fierce buttoned up against the cold but it also looks soft and elegant unbuttoned to display a thin cable knit sweater.

The color palette of the blazer is divine and having it come down into the cuffs in glorious tufts of caramel, black, and cream creates an edgy aesthetic while still looking oh so chic. Whether you pair this Vince Camuto blazer with your favorite sweater dress or knit skirt or just with a basic pair of skinnies, you are going to have a rockin’ OOTD – minimum effort required with maximum style.

What is your favorite type of clothing? How would you style this blazer? I want to hear from all of you, so leave me a comment and let’s chat! Much love. -Sarah

If The Shoe Fits: Splendid In Snakeskin Edition

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If The Shoe Fits: Splendid In Snakeskin Edition

Helloooo! I know, I know I had a fairly recent fall haul. BUT, fall is my favorite time to shop so I couldn’t resist picking out a few more goodies from TJMaxx’s online site. I also like to think that my pure and utter hatred for dressing during the summer balances out this splurge sesh because I really don’t buy a lot of warm weather clothing. In fact, at least eighty-five percent of my wardrobe is tailored to the crisp chill of autumn air. And, although these snakeskin kitten heeled booties by Splendid would be cute in the summer with some frilly socks, they will be taken to new heights in the upcoming fall season. Check it out:

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As you all know, I have a soft spot for snakeskin and have quite a few pairs of patterned boots already. However, all of them are in gray scale and I am obsessed with the fresh new take on a much loved pattern with the cinnamon syrup palette. And, of course, throw a few buckles on a pair of boots and you know I’m in!

Although the overall aesthetic of my new boots was pleasing, I wasn’t sure how I was going to feel about them because I love a big heel and there is no denying that. And, in my humble opinion, a kitten heel doesn’t count! But, these felt just right when I slipped them on and the itty bitty lift is just enough to add some extra oomph as opposed to them being completely flat. Everything about these ankle boots flows so well from the pointed toe all the way to the heel and they are going to make a very cool edition to some autumn OOTDs.

Peeking beneath wide legged trousers or a maxi skirt or boldly displayed with some sharp skinnies, a statement will definitely be made. And, the beauty of the color palette is that despite it being a pattern, it is still a neutral so you could pair these shoes with literally anything and it will go together. So, go ahead and mix and match animal prints, florals, or stripes and get a unique ensemble – no huge heel required! 😉

What is your favorite style of boot? How about your favorite heel height? I want to hear from all of you, so leave me a comment and let’s chat! Much love. -Sarah

Accessory Story: We’ve Got The Knife Edition

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Accessory Story: We’ve Got The Knife Edition

Helloooo! I have a deep adoration for the creepy, spooky, scary, and disturbing so it only makes sense that my definition of “living my best life” was visiting a Halloween store with a client. It was so much fun to see all of the costumes, haunted house style decor, and walking on the “step here” signs to activate all of the moving, howling creatures. I basically wanted everything there to decorate my apartment with. But, since that is not in my ballin’ on a budget budget, I settled for some bloody knife earrings instead. Check them out:

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After snagging some pink bloody knife hair clips from Dolls Kill, I have been on the prowl for earrings to match and these new ones will do just fine. I love how the shiny metal and the dangling rubies dance in the lighting and, because I live every day like it’s Halloween, these definitely won’t just be for the end of October. Creepy? Yes. Disturbing? Kind of. But, nothing says punk rock horror princess like some dripping cutlery hanging from your ears! Freaking obsessed. 😀

Do you have any holiday themed jewelry or clothing? How do you rock them year round? I want to hear from all of you, so leave me a comment and let’s chat! Much love. -Sarah

Faux Fur Fabulous: Sanctuary Jacket Edition

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Faux Fur Fabulous: Sanctuary Jacket Edition

Salutations! My mom has spoiled me absolutely rotten in the sweet surprises department this past month and has gifted me with headbands, new Keurig K cups, and some good ol’ fashioned Kraft mac n’ cheese. But, the real piece de resistance is my new cream colored faux fur jacket by Sanctuary. This is a brand that I am quite fond of but, sadly, don’t own a lot of pieces from. However, one of my favorite purses is by Sanctuary and I have been on the lookout for more by them ever since. So, how lucky for me that I have an amazing mom who found me a perfect new jacket by a brand that I lust after! Check it out:

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I have a strong passion for faux fur and have many a jacket, vest, and collars to keep myself glam rock and warm all winter long. I would never be caught dead in a large puffer jacket and faux fur is the ultimate way to go during the brutal Ohio winters. They may not be the heaviest but you can always layer and it prevents me from looking and feeling like a marshmallow and, frankly, that’s all I care about!

This new Sanctuary jacket is absolutely stunning. It’s shaggy but just enough so that it still looks feathery and has movement without giving off the illusion that I draped myself in a huge mop. And, can we talk about the color?! The alabaster hue will look simply charming against freshly fallen snow and is an excellent neutral for adding bright pops of color with scarves, gloves, and hats.

I used to be under the impression that neutral colors were “boring”. But, as my style continues to develop, I have found that it’s what you do with the colors that make your OOTDs exciting. Picture this: The creamy colored fringe of this jacket blowing in the wind, a nice heavy turtleneck underneath, sharp trousers, and a bright red boot to march about in this winter. Toss on your favorite knitwear accessories in bold colors and you have a winter ready OOTD without sacrificing style or any of the excitement of a more loud colored coat. *Sigh* Perfection.

How do you style neutral colors? What is your favorite color to wear? I want to hear from all of you, so leave me a comment and let’s chat! Much love. -Sarah

Accessory Story: Cheetah Girl Headband Edition

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Accessory Story: Cheetah Girl Headband Edition

Howdy! In the past, I was never a huge animal print fan and I still wouldn’t say that it’s my favorite. However, I do love me a good snakeskin or cheetah print every now and again so I was so happy when my mom surprised me with another darling headband in cheetah print. I am especially pleased with this because my boyfriend has a fondness for the jungle style pattern and I know that he is going to love it! Check it out:

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I used to think that cheetah print was too gaudy for me and I will always prefer the more rocker snakeskin. However, when done in small doses with accessories, I can sport a cheetah print with the best of them. This cloth headband with a top twist is just right to add a little sass to an OOTD or spice up a more laid back look. The warmer toned palette also goes nicely with my hair and my usual makeup and I am excited to pair it with chunky knit sweaters, boots, and a good pair of skinnies come fall.

My mom is such a sweetheart and is always on the lookout for surprises for all of her children. There is nothing quite like getting a text or a call from that woman saying that she has something for you, because she knocks it out of the park 99% of the time. And, even if she doesn’t, the fact that she thinks about me and my style when she’s doing her own errands is enough for me. She is one of a kind and an absolute national treasure and I love JANE so much!

How do you rock an animal print? Who is the easiest or most difficult person in your family to shop for? I want to hear from all of you, so leave me a comment and let’s chat! Much love. -Sarah

Sweet Surprises: I LOVE YOU, MOM! Edition

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Sweet Surprises: I LOVE YOU, MOM! Edition

Salutations! I’m sure that all of you know by now that my parents are kind of amazing. And, by kind of, I mean very. In their own way, they are constantly doing for their children, even though we are all grown ass adults now. For example, when I was in college, my dad would always have coffee ready for me before class in the morning. It’s always the simple things that mean the most to me and that particularly touched me and I’ve been graduated for three years now.

My mom is also an excellent surpriser and recently treated me to this gorgeous headband from TJMaxx. She ordered it online while doing some shopping of her own and I am in love. Check it out:

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My mom is my shopping partner in crime and it has been that way for as long as I can remember. I wouldn’t want it any other way and it is so much fun enabling each other with our TJMaxx shopping hauls both in store and online. Because my mom has been with me during literally every shopping trip ever, she knows my style like the back of her hand so she is always picking things out for me that she knows I would like it.

This headband is no exception and my mom was spot on because she knows that I have developed a slight obsession with hair accessories. Clips, hats, veils, and ribbons I love it all and this headband just might be my new favorite. The thick woven texture and the perfect for fall color palette with the gold, cream, and olive green not only compliments my style, complexion, and hair to the T but will also be a fantastic add on to my autumn OOTDs.

I am so appreciative to my parents for their continued love and support for all I do in my life and Sweet Surprises like this make me feel even closer to them. So, thanks mom and dad for being you! ❤

What do your loved ones surprise you with? Who is your shopping partner in crime? I want to hear from all of you, so leave me a comment and let’s chat! Much love. -Sarah

Essential Staples For Your Wardrobe

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Essential Staples For Your Wardrobe

Not everyone will want to have a wardrobe full of staples or even care. But, sometimes, the right scarf or belt can make your whole outfit. However, if you are looking for a quick and easy wardrobe with a range of basics that will go with anything, then here is the list for you:

Ankle Grazers:

If they worked for Audrey Hepburn, then chances are that they are going to work for you too. It is a smart option instead of jeans or leggings and can go from the office to the bar with ease. They work well with sneakers, brogues, or even a heel.

Blouse:

The power of the blouse is so underestimated. They go with skirts, jeans, or black dress pants and can be casual or smart. If you like adding color and patterns into your daily outfits, then go for a retro style. They don’t have to be pricey, and you can pick up some really nice silk ones in thrift stores.

Classic Leather Belt:

The right belt will last a lifetime. And, it gets really frustrating to be pulling up your jeans all the time! A will leather goods belt will upgrade your casual jeans and a t-shirt without any effort required, and you can match them with your bag or shoes. Simple and effective.

Flats:

Ballet flats are here to stay. They are light on your feet so are perfect for heavy use and will work with every outfit that you can think of. Having them in a couple of colors is going to give you more selection, but in general navy, black, and nude will be just right.

T-shirts:

Grabbing a range of t-shirts in whatever color you like best is a great idea. They work well under blazers, with jeans, or with black ankle grazers. And, of course, make for perfect loungewear, too!

Tube Skirt:

Or any type of midi with a bit of a stretch is perfect. They are easy to slip on and if you’ve gone all out on a big meal, they will stretch with you! H&M has some great ones in their basic range.

Shapewear:

Shapewear like bodysuits or shaped briefs and camis can make a huge difference to any outfit. They hug your body’s natural curves while camouflaging problem areas. Whether you are sporting basic staples or a ball gown, it’s good to have a few shapewear pieces in your wardrobe. The most important thing? The fit! You want your shapewear to fit snugly without being tight. To find a store that offers fittings, simply enter a search for “shapewear fitting Melbourne” (or your local area). Explore all of the options available as you won’t know what works until you try!

Sunglasses:

Not only do they protect the skin around the eyes, but they cover a multitude of sins. While you are getting yourself some sunnies, make sure you grab an excellent case for them and keep them in your bag at all times. Tired but have somewhere to be? Sunglasses. Bright outside and you need some extra protection? Sunglasses. Don’t feel like being social? Sunglasses. There is a pair to suit all face shapes, so don’t worry if you don’t usually wear them – invest and you’ll never look back.

Big Tote:

A big tote bag can carry pretty much your whole house in it. Great for everything from folders to tablets and everyday essentials like wallet, phone, and keys. Get one that matches some of your shoes and your belt to tie in any look that you want to create.

Having essential staples in your wardrobe will keep you from having the “nothing to wear” phenomenon and will keep you looking oh so chic!

Featured Image By: Jon Tyson on Unsplash