Buy This, Not That

Charles by Charles David Champagne Satin $124.95
Forever 21 Sateen Stiletto Heels $24.80

Ever since I bought these Michael Kors heels, I've had a weakness for satin platform pumps.   There's something so sweet and classic about this look and these pumps from Forever 21 are the perfect color for Spring. And at under $25, the price is certainly right.  I'm off to Forever 21 this weekend in the hopes of finding them.

Forever 21 Shoes

1. Velveteen Stiletto Heel $24.80
2. Suedette Stiletto Ankle Bootie $29.80
3. Suedette Heel Bootie $27.80
4. Rosette Ankle Strap Heels $22.80
5. Retro Oxfords $24.80
6. Studded Ankle Wrap Bootie $32.80

I can't help but notice that Forever 21 has recently stepped it up in their shoe department.  Much like their clothing and accessories, they've always displayed cute shoes at affordable prices.  However, I've always been one to believe that cheap shoes and horrible pain go hand in hand.  But suddenly I'm seeing girls wearing these and pronouncing that they're comfortable (as charmingly demonstrated by Carrie, Anna Jane, and Alicia).  I'm now changing my tune and planning on scoring a great pair of shoes for less than $30.  Here are a few of my favorites.  Do you have any shoes from Forever 21?

Cold Weather Shorts

Aqua blouse, Twelfth Street by Cynthia Vincent vest, Forever 21 shorts, tights, & necklace, Steve Madden booties, vintage clutch

This outfit might have been my favorite "holiday date" ensemble of the month.  I love winter shorts for their comfort and versatility and this pair from Forever 21 has become a cold weather staple in my wardrobe.  I hope you all had a fantastic Christmas weekend and were able to spend time with family and friends! 

Winter Shorts

1. Forever 21 Cuffed Houndstooth Shorts $19.80

2. Juicy Couture Riding Twill Herringbone Shorts $128

3. Forever 21 Sailor Shorts $17.80

4. American Eagle Sequin Party Shorts $49.50

5. Madewell Silk Tulip Shorts $88

6. Alexa Chung for Madewell Billie Velvet Shorts $88

It's fun to see that shorts are not just for summertime anymore. They're now worn year round with bare legs during warmer months and with tights and booties/boots or even pumps during the winter. It's one of the easiest/most budget friendly ways to transition your summer wardrobe into Fall. And even though there are very "winter" versions (think wool, twill, and high waists), this also look amazing with the basic denim cutoffs. I usually pair mine with a thin sweater or slouchy tee and warm jacket, but blouses and flannels also look great. Are you wearing shorts this Fall/Winter?

Buy This, Not That

Forever 21 French Terry Raglan Hoodie $19.80

J Crew Haya Pullover Hoodie $65

What could be better than throwing on a soft comfy hoodie with your sequined skirt? This is one look that I not only think is adorable, but appreciate for its comfort and ease. I've been pairing my soft luxurious hoodies with leather, sequins, maxi dresses, and lace to create a new spin on an old item.

The Revival of the Blouse

1. Topshop Doily Print Oversize Blouse $90

2. Paul & Joe Sister Blossom Blouse $51.97 (sale)

3. See By Chloe Star Print Blouse $395

4. Tucker The Blouse $184.99 (sale)

5. Forever 21 Spot Blended Silk Blouse $27.80

6. Topshop Jacquard Blouse $80

Although the word "blouse" tends to evoke images of our grandma's wardrobe, I've always had many blouses hanging in my closet. I've always worn them regularly to work. But only recently have I transitioned them from my work wardrobe to my weekend wear. Suddenly, blouses are everywhere, paired with shorts, skirts, skinny jeans, you name it! I feel like I just hit the wardrobe jackpot and have countless new options by converting my work clothes into stylish weekend outfits! Are you embracing the Blouse?

Come Rain or Shine

Modern Vintage Boots (also seen here), La Mer watch, Forever 21 bag and skirt, H&M top

You can see how wet the sidewalks are from the rain.

Cupcakes from Vanilla Bake Shop

I celebrated a birthday last week (Thursday, to be exact) and opted for smaller, more intimate celebrations over one big event. While my birthdays of the past signified big parties, lots of people, and trendy venues, they've evolved into quiet nights, dinners with friends and, of course, cupcakes! We went to dinner with friends on Saturday and due to the rain, gloominess, and unreasonably cold temperatures, this was the first year I've ever worn winter boots and a long sleeved top for my July birthday. Regardless of the weather, we had a fantastic time. Thank you to Gabe and my friends and family for making my day (and the entire week) very special!

Buy This, Not That

Splendid Lace Tank $47

Joie Drew B All Over Lace Tank $158

After yesterday's post about all things lace, I couldn't help but feel like I needed to add a bit more of it to my wardrobe. When I found this Splendid tank in a buttery cream color, I had to buy it! I do appreciate the scalloped edges of the Joie tank, but I obviously preferred the price of the Splendid top. I'll post an outfit in it once it arrives. Which one would you choose? I hope you all have a terrific long holiday weekend!

Buy This, Not That

Forever 21 Hampton's Linen Dress $24.80

Theory Carita W Dress with Belt $325.00

This dress combines two of my new favorite trends- the shirt dress and the military look. Genius! I just ordered the Forever 21 dress and am patiently waiting it's arrival. What do you think of the military look? Which dress would you choose?

Buy This, Not That

Forever 21 Rainbow Jewel Dome Ring $6.80

Kate Spade Tapered Ring $79.99 (sale)

I literally had this Kate Spade ring in my online shopping basket at Piperlime (it is on sale) when I found this rainbow gem ring at Forever 21 for $6.80! This was a no-brainer for me and I'm going to head right over to Forever 21 and try to find the inexpensive ring in person and skip on the Kate Spade this time. Which ring would you go for, given the vast difference in price?

Vintage Florals

1. Forever 21 Sweet Happenings Woven Dress $19.80
2. Forever 21 Garden Spaghetti Strap Dress $22.80
3. Topshop Floral Stripe Vest Dress by Love $60
4. Topshop Grid Floral Oversized Tunic $90
5. Topshop Floral Cup Bust Dress by Love $68
6. Forever 21 Sunny Florals Sun Dress $22.90
7. Elizabeth and James Sleeveless Tokyo Top $285
8. Twelfth Street by Cynthia Vincent Ditzy Print Cami $198

As summer quickly approaches, I find myself gravitating toward feminine floral prints that remind me of clothing my mom wore when I was young. I saw that Piperlime is calling them "Vintage Florals" and that's exactly what I love about this look. They're pretty and feminine, but they also look detailed and unique. These are a few of my current favorite "vintage floral" tops and dresses.

Buy This, Not That

Forever 21
Twelfth Street by Cynthia Vincent

I have a major crush on almost every Twelfth Street by Cynthia Vincent dress, and this ruffled number is no exception. It's so feminine and pretty without being overly girly. When I found the Forever 21 dress, I couldn't believe how similar they were! I think I even like the navy color better in this. What are you eyeing for summer?

Linen & Things

1. Forever 21 Pleat Waist Linen Short $18.90
2. Juicy Couture Basic Linen Drawstring Pant $128
3. Forever 21 Linen Breeze Pant $22.80
4. Banana Republic Linen/Cotton Sophisticate Skirt $69.50
5. Forever 21 (Heritage) Adria Linen Short $19.90
6. Forever 21 Linen Grain Belted Skirt $17.80
7. Central Park West Seaside Linen Blazer $152
8. Free People Long Seam-Detailed Linen Blazer $128
9. Free People Benji's Linen Crocheted Racerback Romper $98

I've recently noticed linen popping up everywhere (in shorts, button down tops, blazers, and especially pants). I've picked up a few of these items, but right now I'm dying for a pair of white linen pants to complete my "linen wardrobe" for summertime. I'd love to wear them with a simple tank, flat sandals and a big floppy straw hat. This fabric is so versatile it can be perfect for the office, the beach, or anywhere in between. Have a great weekend, everyone!

Pastel Party

1. Topshop Crochet Tunic Sundress $70
2. Topshop Asymmetrical Frill Dress $80
3. Forever 21 Drawstring Empire Waist Tunic $17.80
4. Topshop Slouch Pocket Tank $125
5. Topshop All Over Lace Blouse $65
6. Forever 21 Free Flowy Woven Top $22.80
7. Generra Solid Raw Edge Detail Blouse $122.99 (sale)

We all know that bright colors are all the rage this season, but pastels are a fun/pretty alternative when we want some versatility in the color department. The pale yellow is my favorite pastel and I'm hoping to scoop up a few items in this color before leaving for our Kauai vacation in a few weeks.

Buy This, Not That

Forever 21
Vera Wang Lavendar Label

I've been eyeing these Vera Wang jellies for a while now and wondering if I could justify spending $95 on shoes made of plastic. Well, I'm so glad I held out because I just found these from Forever 21 for $9.80. Score!

Buy This, Not That

Forever 21
Tiffany

We've all seen the vintage Tiffany key necklaces everywhere recently and how could anyone not love them? The one shown above is my personal favorite, but I'd take any of them if it came down to it. The price tag doesn't exactly work for my current budget, so I found the necklace shown above from Forever 21 to get me through my key phase. 60% of the time, it works every time.

Lunch at the Beach

Forever 21 Classic Silk Shirt $29.80
Delias Taylor Jean Shorts $34.50
Mossimo Penny Suede Flat Sandals $22.99
Forever 21 Floppy Sun Hat $10.80
Gap Jute Belt-$19.50
Forever 21 Gold Aviators $5.80
Forever 21 Vanguard Cuff $10.80
Forever 21 Intrigue Leatherette Tote $27.80
Forever 21 Dimpled Circle Chain Necklace $6.80

After 4 years of living by the beach, I've started to develop what I'd consider a very casual uniform. Usually this involves a t-shirt or tank top with boyfriend jeans or shorts, flip flops and an enormous handbag. In the summer I throw sundresses into the mix as well, but you get the picture. I've been trying to branch out a bit for the last few summers and try new looks with something other than sundresses or tank tops and pairing white shorts with a bright button down is one of my new favorite looks. This outfit would be perfect for a summertime lunch or daytime outing at the beach.

Flirty Fun Skirts

1. Forever 21-Sheen Tiered Skirt $17.80
2. Forever 21-Raw Edge Tier Skirt $24.80
3. Forever 21-Sequin Denim Skirt $17.80
4. Topshop-Bubble Tier Skirt $65
5. Topshop-Premium Crochet Scallop Skirt $100
6. Topshop-Button Mini Skirt $55
7. Forever 21-Belted Sateen Skirt $14.80
8. Forever 21-Pleated Satin Mini Skirt $15.80
9. Forever 21-Pleated Knee Length Skirt $17.80

For the last couple summers, I've practically worn all dresses all the time. There's just something so easy about throwing on a sundress and a pair of sandals and heading out the door. While I'm still loving dresses, for this year I'm all about the skirt in attempts to mix up my wardrobe and try something new. These are a few of my current favorites.

Stud Finder

Studded accessories have recently become my new obsession of choice. They bring an edge to any outfit. I love pairing feminine outfits with studded accessories to create a "hard and soft" look that feels very current and chic. These are a few of my favorites.

Row 1:
La Mer watch $110

CC Skye Meckenzie Gold Knuckle Ring $150

Kettle Black Studded Snap Bracelet $44

Kettle Black Gold Stud Bracelet $88

Bop Bijoux Pyramid Stud Earrings $60

Row 2:

American Eagle Skinny Studded Belt $19.50

CC Skye Malibu Stud Ring $150

Polished Stud Trim Headband $3.80

Vince Camuto "Avo" Studded Leather Stiletto Booties $120

Row 3:
Hypnotic Women's Northern Short Stud Booty $35.95

American Eagle Studded Snakeskin Flat $14.95

Women's Adi Designs Studded Gladiator Stilettos $36

Hot Summer Nights

This outfit is exactly what I want to wear on those nights when I want to be comfortable, but still look presentable. Wedge heels are so much easier to walk around in and I love the soft, luxurious look of this Alexis Lani dress. I have to give Kati credit for finding these amazing earrings that I now love. This is the perfect outfit for hot summer nights on dates with my husband or dinner with the girls.

Alexis Lani-Poncho Dress $198
Pour La Victoire- "Tarissa" Strappy Platform Wedges $290
Forever 21-Sunglasses $5.80
Forever 21- Intricate Tassel Earrings $5.80
Forever 21-Fleur Bracelet $7.80
Forever 21-Petite Glitter Clutch $20.80