Tag Archives: american eagle

Sep25

Jeans & A T OOTD

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Jeans & A T OOTD

Hello and welcome to a brand new OOTD here on lifewithlilred! After getting my hair done and having a wildly successful Fall Haul, I just had to take pictures this past weekend. I wanted to check out this new hiking trail nearby with my husband/photographer but we couldn’t find it to save our own lives. So, Johnny and I settled for taking pictures at Taco Bell instead lol. As we all know, T-Bell is my absolute favorite so this was just fine by me! Check it out:

Who? What? Wear?

When it comes to my OOTDs, the more extravagant the better. However, there’s some days where you just have to throw on jeans and a T and go. This outfit is one of the most minimal looks I have featured on my page but it packs a punch thanks to the accessories, super distressed jeans, and pops of color. It was a perfect look for running errands with Johnny because we always try and show out even if we are just making a Target run!

To add some interest to a simple jeans and T look, it is all about the accessories. I didn’t want to overpower the black and white palette that I had going so I relied on the extras in my OOTD to give small but effective pops of color. I started by putting on my platform heels which added a fun surprise with the flames on the heels. It also helped create the illusion of length as it blended seamlessly with my jeans.

I went with my Union Jack shades and purse to give a pattern to my OOTD without being overwhelming to the muted palette. These accessories provided visual interest that enhanced the look because the colors weren’t too bright and minimal enough that it didn’t put all of the focus on one piece of the outfit. To complete the look, I put on my favorite bracelet from Claire’s that has a chain which connects to a ring and walked out the door feeling my damn self.

By the end of my styling session, I felt like a million bucks and had an outfit that I was in love with even though it is a far cry from my norm. For some people, stepping out of their comfort zone means wearing a more bold piece. For me, it means toning things down and my Jeans & A T OOTD definitely did that! The accessories tied this look together but, let’s be honest, the outfit was already made with Britney Spears on my T-shirt. ❤

Tune in tomorrow for bonus pictures from this look as well as the funny story behind winding up at Taco Bell for a photo shoot! 😀

Who is your favorite pop star? How do you step out of your comfort zone in your outfits? I want to hear from all of you, so leave me a comment and let’s chat! Much love. -Sarah

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Sep10

Jean Queen

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Jean Queen

Hi! This past weekend, Johnny and I had a super cute day date to the mall because I needed new jeans in a bad way. While I am partial to clothes shopping at TJMaxx, the jeans and shorts from American Eagle are simply the best so heading to Summit Mall was the move.

I love AEO for their pants selection because they tend to always have a regular rise option, which is ideal for me because I am not a fan of high waisted anything. Naturally, this time they didn’t have one regular rise pair of jeans so I had to step out of my comfort zone with a “super high rise” skinny:

Now, you might find yourselves asking why I went with a super high rise pair if I hate high waisted so much and, honestly, I didn’t even plan on trying these on. I’m glad I gave them a shot, though, because they weren’t that bad. The rise on AEO’s super high rise hit about an inch below my belly button and I can live with that. Anything higher would have been a definite no go because it is not the most flattering style on me.

Mine and Johnny’s motto is that you can never have enough black skinny jeans and that is literally all we wear! I went with a nondistressed pair, which will be great for work. But, I am most excited for the distressed pair I purchased with rips all the way up to the mid thigh. Shockingly enough, I can’t say that I have ever owned a distressed pair of jeans before because I have never found an option that I liked enough. I have a feeling that I will be wearing them all of the time… In fact, I have them on right now! 😀

Super high or regular rise, American Eagle is the most when it comes to jeans. They also had some fabulous fall clothes for all of you back to school shoppers out there!

What is your preferred jean rise? Which store has the best jean selection? I want to hear from all of you, so leave me a comment and let’s chat! Much love. -Sarah

May30

American Eagle Outfitters Haul

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American Eagle Outfitters Haul

Hi!! When I went to Summit Mall a week or so ago for the first time in at least two years, I made the most of it with a huge haul from Altar’d State. I also needed new shorts in a bad way and there is only one store that I can trust will have what I am looking for every time: American Eagle Outfitters. But Sarah, it’s about to be summertime! Every store is selling shorts. Be that as it may, I am not a fan of high waisted shorts and AEO is one of the few stores I know of that still sells classic midrise shorts.

As always, AEO delivered and I found two new pairs of shorts that fit just how I like as well as a multi pack set of earrings for my wedding! Check it out:

I have exactly two high waisted pairs of jeans in my wardrobe and, believe you me, I was very surprised by those purchases! However, high rise shorts just do not work on my body type. I have muscular thighs, a butt, and hips with a small waist so what fits over my bottom half is HUGE on my waistline and leaves a lot to be desired in the fit department. Therefore, midrise shorts will always be the move for me.

I was so happy to find two pairs of excellent quality shorts at American Eagle that I know will last me for a good long while because I only had one pair of shorts before this shopping trip! My midrise AEO shorts fit me like a glove without being too tight and it’s nice to have a little variety between the black shorts and distressed dark denim. Both pairs will go with literally anything this summer which takes any guesswork out of styling so that I can get out and go for mine and Johnny’s next adventures!

Originally, I only planned on purchasing shorts at AEO – until I got to the cash register that is. At the cash wrap, I noticed their jewelry display and remembered that I needed some smaller earrings for my wedding. When I buy earrings, I only go for flashy dangly pairs so there was a definite lacking of no fuss earrings at my place! I like that the multi pack that I purchased had options in both silver and gold and I am excited to mix and match until I find the perfect combination for the big day.

It felt so good to do some actual shopping at Summit Mall as opposed to browsing online and I am incredibly happy with everything that I bought. Here’s to successful shopping trips to all!

What is your preferred rise for jeans and shorts? Do you prefer dangle or stud earrings? I want to hear from all of you, so leave me a comment and let’s chat! Much love. -Sarah

May2

Who Wears Short Shorts?

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Who Wears Short Shorts?

Hi! One trend that I could never and will never get into is all high waisted everything. Don’t get me wrong, it looks super cute on some people, but me? Not so much. As a petite girl at 5’1, high waisted clothing makes me look really short and makes my ass look REALLY flat. Which is so not okay because, I hate to brag, but over a decade of figure skating has blessed me with a behind that is definitely above average. In conclusion, high waisted and I just don’t get along.

When this trend became popular five or so years ago, it has become increasingly difficult to find shorts that are a normal rise. It seems like every store that I go to only has high waisted shorts that honestly seem like a yeast infection waiting to happen because they go so far up into the nether regions. No thank you!

Before a recent trip to the mall, it felt like the odds were stacked against me in finding some shorts for summer that are a normal rise. I was kind of nervous, actually, because I haven’t bought shorts in forever so it needed to happen. The first boutique style store I went into was a bust. Literally all they had was high waisted shorts. And, just so no one could say I didn’t try, I even tried a pair on.

Spoiler Alert!

It was exactly what I expected it to be. My ass looked flat as a pancake and my torso and legs looked insanely stumpy. Not a good look. I was about to leave after the disappointing fitting room session in the boutique because I had already made purchases at other stores and figured that I could try again later. But, then, I decided to go to American Eagle Outfitters.

I have always really liked the way that AEO jeans fit me and I thought that they might have more options for shorts with a normal rise. And, my instinct was correct, because I was able to find two cute, normal rise shorts at buy one get one half off! Check it out:

shorty

It was such a relief going into AEO and seeing an entire table of normal rise shorts, which I feel like never happens anymore. I was able to select from a bunch of different styles and colors and, for once, short shopping didn’t suck. These new shorties from American Eagle fit me just right, make me look fine from behind, and I don’t need to worry about having a permanent wedgie from a high rise. Score!

Do you prefer a normal, high, or mid rise when it comes to your clothes? What is a trend that you wish would go away or start up again? I want to hear from all of you, so leave me a comment and let’s chat! Much love. -Sarah

Jan5

Cleaning Out My Clothing Hoard

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Cleaning Out My Clothing Hoard

Hey!! One thing that I have a really difficult time doing is letting go of clothing. I have a dresser and closet filled with gorgeous clothes that are certainly pretty to look at, but some of them really just don’t belong anymore. Whether that be from the clothes not fitting the best or I haven’t worn it in years, I never know when I might need it! 😉 Hence, a massive clothing hoard that needed to be tamed.

On the day after Christmas, I spent my time going through my closet and dresser and selecting clothes to sell to Plato’s Closet. It was hard!! There were pieces that I had in mind to add to my Plato’s bag, but when the time came to remove it from the hanger and fold it, it was like my feet became super glued to the floor. I knew that I needed to purge my closet but, damnit, I really didn’t want to!

Despite massive cold feet about my closet clean out, I managed to fill a whole bag to bring to Plato’s Closet. How, you might ask? First, the clothes that didn’t fit well were an automatic toss into the bag. Then, I took a deep breath, really tried to measure how many times I’ve worn the piece in the past year, and made my decision based on that.

The first few times that I had to make a decision to keep or toss was so difficult because, of course, you want to keep everything! But, then you think about why the clothing is taking up space in your closet if you’re not using it and it just makes sense to rid yourself of it. It really seemed like a “now or never” type of situation and even though I had a hard time, I was committed to completing my project in the now.

I took my clothes to Plato’s Closet and got twenty-five bucks for the clothes that they wanted the day after Christmas. It was great, because no one was there so I was in and out in no time! Everyone, me included, thinks that their clothes are worth way more but hey, it’s better than nothing!

I wasn’t too disappointed that everything wasn’t taken from my bag, but there are two things that I wanted to throw out to the blogging world to see if anyone wanted to make an offer on them. They just seem too nice and cute for someone not to want to score a great deal!!

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Both the Express blazer and American Eagle Outfitters peacoat are an Extra Small. The blazer was originally $108 with the tags still on it and the AEO peacoat was close to one hundred, as well. The Express blazer has a bit of discoloration on the collar from my hair dye, but can’t be seen when it’s worn. Both are super cute and in great condition, so if you want to make an offer, it’s all yours! 🙂

What are your tips on cleaning out a clothing hoard? How do you choose which items to keep or toss? I want to hear from all of you, so leave me a comment and let’s chat! Much love. -Sarah

Sep13

Cardi Party: Dream On, Kid

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Cardi Party: Dream On, Kid

Hey everyone and happy Hump Day! One brand that I’ve always really liked but never explored to an extent is American Eagle Outfitters. I like their classic style, muted colors, and the fact that their clothes can definitely be viewed as appropriate for a twenty something. Despite an appreciation for the brand, their clothes are just way too expensive for my taste.

Don’t get me wrong, my frugality doesn’t exclude the knowledge that you get what you pay for. But my frugality DOES include the fact that, often times, you can find amazing brands elsewhere for a fraction of the cost. This is why I am a tried and true Maxxinista. TJMaxx is a store that I shopped at from a very young age. I can remember browsing the aisles hand in hand with my mom or grandma when I was little and thinking that it was the most fantastic place on earth – and I still do!

TJMaxx allows me to live out my rich girl fantasy by providing me with brands for purchase that I would never buy in my wildest dreams for full price. TJs dwindles down the cost of clothing, shoes, and accessories to a price that I’m fully comfortable paying. When people ask me where I get my clothes, it makes me proud to say that I get a majority of it from TJMaxx, which proves that I look sharp at a budget price. Check out my latest purchase, which happens to be an American Eagle Outfitters cardi at a TJ’s discount, and let’s discuss:

dreamon2dreamon3dreamon4dreamon5

It has been a long, long time since I stepped foot in a mall. And when I do, it’s rarely for myself, but for gift shopping during the holiday season. But, even then, I still prefer to do my shopping elsewhere. However, when I do find myself in the mall, I like to take my time, look around, guffaw at costly price tags, and take note of the things I like for when I do my bargain shopping later.

This adorable, prep school style AEO cardi cost me THIRTEEN DOLLARS, and I know for a fact that it would have been at least fifty had I bought it at the mall. Somehow, this made my new cardigan appear even cuter to me! It has been a good, long while since I bought myself a new cardi – probably back in 2014, actually, when I was still working at PacSun and got a nice employee discount.

I love the cardigans that I do have because they’re older, but I can’t help feeling like everyone and their brother will have the cardigans that are in store right now. And if there’s one thing that I hate, it’s feeling like a million other people have what I’m buying. This is why I usually shy away from purchasing a cardigan, but go for something like a cool jacket or comfy chic sweaters, instead.

However, this AEO cardigan was too cute to pass up. It features my three favorite colors – black, red, and white and it’s SO comfy. I normally don’t dress for comfort, but there’s nothing better than wrapping yourself up in a nice, cozy cardigan to combat the autumn chill. And, of course, the “Keep On Dreamin'” embroidered back made me smile.

If you must know, I was totally “sadness shopping” after a rough day full of questioning myself and just not feeling good in my skin. The sweet, inspirational surprise on the back of this cardi made me happy and it felt like a message from the shopping gods telling me that I’m going to be okay. You can’t beat finding something totally adorable, affordable, and confidence boosting on a really blah day. Needless to say, it was a total TJMaxx cardi party!

So there you have it, my recent Cardi Party: Dream On, Kid! What is a purchase that you made recently that made you smile? How do you ball on a budget? I want to hear from all of you, so leave me a comment and let’s chat! Much love. -Sarah

Featured Image By: Taqplayer

Mar24

New American Eagle Outfitters Jeans

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New American Eagle Outfitters Jeans

Hi everyone and happy Thursday! I hope all of you are having a great week so far. A little fact about Lil Red is that I freaking hate blue jeans. I absolutely one hundred and fifty percent despise them. I feel like they are so unflattering on me and that they make me look like a total heifer. Therefore, I only wear black skinny jeans. But here’s the thing – the skinnies can’t look or feel like denim. I’ve been in need of a new pair of these hard to come by pants for a while and finally caved this past weekend and purchased a pair from American Eagle Outfitters. Despite a few issues that I have with them, they’re alright so far so let’s discuss:

My holy grail pair of black skinnies is from H&M. They’re the literal best pair of pants that I ever owned and I love them so much. Unfortunately, my H&Ms as well as my pair from Express are starting to show signs of wear and tear which needed to be remedied ASAP. The nearest H&M to me is about an hour away and Express is way too expensive for my liking so I had to do some soul searching around the mall to find a pair that I could live with.

After trying on a few duds, I ended up settling for the AEO Sateen Jegging. I really liked the material that it was made out of because it didn’t feel like denim at all. They seriously feel like cloth on my legs when in all reality, they’re made out of a Super Super Stretch cotton blend of denim. This was a major plus for me because I hate the texture of denim and the way it lays on my body. And even though these jeggings felt awesome on my skin, they didn’t look like cloth by any means which I would never be caught dead in.

Another bonus about my new jeggings is that they fit skin tight but because the material is so stretchy, you never feel constricted. My other pairs of skinnies no longer fit closely to my skin anymore from over a year of wear so it felt really good to try on a pair of skinnies that fit nice and tight, like they should. I think that my new jeggings look really flattering and I love the way that they make my legs and booty look thanks to their super snug fit.

Although I really do love the fit and make of AEO’s Sateen Jeggings, I can’t help but think that they’re a little boring. My pair from Express was embellished with a snakeskin pattern while my H&M pair was coated and had quilted patches on the knees. It’s essential to me that the clothes that I buy have a little extra something to them to make them unique and unfortunately, there isn’t anything special about my AEO pair. Don’t get me wrong, I do like them but because I was in such desperate need for new pantalones, I ended up settling for the pair at the mall that didn’t suck the least.

Another major downside to American Eagle’s denim is their outrageous prices. These jeggings cost me fifty dollars which I was not thrilled about. My favorite pair of skinnies from H&M were half the price at twenty-five bucks so to pay double for a pair that didn’t totally knock my socks off kind of hurt. I think the prices at AEO are absurd to begin with so I was kind of mad that the jeggings I went with were from there. But hey, I was desperate and beggars can’t be choosers.

Even though I feel pretty wishy washy about my New American Eagle Outfitters Jeans, I am happy that I got them. They were much needed, they fit well, and I know that I’ll get a lot of use out of them. The clothes that I have purchased from AE has lasted me such a long time so I know that these jeggings will be no exception. Now if only I can make it out to H&M to restock my black skinnies collection with some pieces that are more reasonably priced!

You can check out my new AEO Sateen Jeggings as well as all of American Eagle’s clothing on the link provided. What is the best place to find black skinny jeans at? What is your favorite store to splurge at? I want to hear from all of you, so leave me a comment and let’s chat! Much love. -Sarah

Jun10

All Black Everything Obsessions

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All Black Everything Obsessions

Heyyy everyone and happy Hump Day! I hope all of you are having a fabulous day so far! I decided to take a study break to talk to you guys about my new All Black Everything clothing and shoe obsessions, so take a look at these beauties and then we’ll discuss!

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^^^ So gorg! And as usual, here’s the breakdown of each of these items and where they were purchased:

  • Black sheer shirt dress: Forever 21
  • Black denim and cloth jacket: American Eagle Outfitters
  • Black knee high gladiator sandals: Carlos Santana, Macy’s

I am so helplessly in love with all of these new pieces that I really don’t even know where to begin, but I guess I’ll start by talking about my new shirt dress from Forever 21. During me and Kristen’s last trip to Belden Village mall, I wanted to spend some time in Forever 21 because I freaking love it and they don’t have one at Summit Mall which is usually the mall I go to. Unfortunately, Kristen doesn’t share my love for the store, so whenever we go there I have to be quick so we can get in and get out. If you’re familiar with the layout of Forever 21, then you’ll know just how difficult it is to be quick in that store! But as I sped through the racks of clothing my eyes locked in on this cool and edgy new piece and I just knew that it had to be mine. I’ve seriously never seen anything like it before and it looks So. Freaking. AWESOME! The first half of the top is completely solid, so you don’t have to worry about your bra being visible, which is nice. But then about an inch after the bust line, the fabric becomes this gorgeous flowing sheer gauze coming down in two panels, one in the front and one in the back. It’s so fabulous because it shows off my side tattoo since there’s no material coming down on either side. I feel like a super model in this get up and it’s nothing short of amazing. I really like wearing this piece over a pair of black super skinnies with my beloved Vera Wang wedges. I’m also looking forward to pairing this shirt/dress hybrid with body con skirts and shorts underneath as well. So fierce. After I found this little beauty at Forever 21, Kristen and I went to American Eagle for some more shopping fun. The jacket that I purchased from there has a bit of a back story: In the beginning of March this jacket was brand new at the store and I instantly fell in love with it. It was SO cute and it fit like a glove. Unfortunately, I was not in love with the seventy-five dollar price, so I had to pass. BUT I vowed to myself that as soon as my dream jacket went on sale, that it would be mine. And that day happened a few weeks ago! While in American Eagle, I scurried back to the sale section and was SO happy to see my beloved jacket hanging up there. There were only two left – one small (which is my size) and an extra large. I immediately grabbed the size small, because I knew that it was meant to be since there was only my size left amongst the extra large. Wanna know the best part? The amazing price I got for it! The jacket was marked down to $59.99 and then they took half off of that so I ended up paying thirty dollars for an originally seventy-five dollar jacket! Such a steal! My final All Black Everything obsession is the GORGEOUS knee high lace up gladiator sandals that Kristen got me for my birthday. You guys need to know that I’ve wanted a pair of sandals like this for over a year now, but due to circumstances like the pairs I want being sold out online or the outrageous prices of some of them, I could just never get my hands on one. It really killed me! During a shopping trip with Kristen, I pointed out a pair of mid calf gladiator sandals at Journey’s that were cute and my sister instantly shot down my comment with “ew those are ugly….but do you like them in black or brown?” So I knew right then and there that she had to have gotten me a pair for my birthday! Needless to say, I freaked out when Kristen presented me with the huge red box that they came in because I knew that underneath that lovely bright red lid was a pair of gladiator sandals with my name on them…and I was so glad I was right! The pair that Kristen picked out for me are seriously sublime. For one, they’re SO beautiful. For two, they’re black, lace up, knee high, AND wedged – who could ask for anything more? And for three, I love Carlos Santana brand shoes, so she really outdid herself. I am so in love and I really just CAN’T EVEN!!!

So there you have it, my latest and greatest All Black Everything Obsessions! Who’s your Woman Crush Wednesday? What was your most recent purchase that you’re in love with? I wanna hear from all of you, so leave me a comment and let’s chat! Much love. -Sarah

May11

Monday Update: Online Shopping, Lil Red Style!

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Monday Update: Online Shopping, Lil Red Style!

Hello, hello everyone and Happy Monday!! I hope all of you had a terrific weekend and a lovely Mother’s Day! I did some cleaning out of my vast closet this weekend and hit up Plato’s Closet this morning to get rid of some of my clutter. Before I drop off the items that they didn’t want to purchase at the Goodwill, I wanted to give all of you gorgeous readers the opportunity to get to them first! (And speaking of Goodwill, make sure you take a look at my article “Thrift Shop Fun At Blue” to read all about my amazing thrifting experience this past weekend!) So pull up a chair, get comfy, and check out this cute dress and jewelry that I have up for grabs. And while you’re at it, make sure you check out my articles “Look Like Lil Red” and “Just So You Know” for some other fabulous finds! Here we go, some online shopping Lil Red style!

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And as usual, here’s the breakdown of each item and where they’re from!

  • Sheer dress: Lux, size Small (Forgive me for forgetting where I purchased this bad boy!)
  • Beaded pendant choker: I got this beauty in a fair trade store in Chicago. If memory serves me correctly it was made in Africa.
  • Beaded floral choker: This fun little piece was purchased from The Market Path in Akron, which is another fair trade store. Once again, if memory serves me correctly, this necklace was made in India.
  • Knick knack necklace: American Eagle

The Lux sheer dress is seriously so cute. It looks darling under a black slip and paired with some funky wedges. The gap backed detailing is especially fun and the eyelet button on the back neckline is another sweet little add on. I love fair trade shopping too much, particularly fair trade jewelry shopping as you can see! Nothing is better than buying some great pieces that go to an even better cause. While cleaning my closet this weekend, I went through my jewelry collection so I could try to dwindle it down because it was getting out of control. Despite how cute all three of the necklaces I have up for grabs are, I rarely wear them and they’re just taking up space. All of these pieces are in great condition, and if you’re interested in any or all of them, you can email me at sarah.mush6794@gmail.com so we can discuss prices and I can send you more detailed pictures! For more exclusive peaks into my wardrobe, make sure you check out “Look Like Lil Red”, “Just So You Know”, and all of my other fashion articles! Happy shopping!

Once again, if you’re interested in any of these pieces, make sure you email me at sarah.mush6794@gmail.com! And as always, keep it tuned in at http://www.lifewithlilred.com for all of the latest and greatest! Where’s all of my fans of The Following at? Are you super hyped for the two hour long episode tonight?! I wanna hear from all of you, so leave me a comment and let’s chat! Much love. -Sarah