Week 7: Baby, It's Cold Outside

First off, have you ever really listened to the lyrics of that song?? They are kind of scandalous :) Seriously, listen...makes for a good conversation to analyze. I digress...it's cold out, friends!  Looks like the better part of the US is dealing with some snow, sleet, rain and FREEZING temps.  Even my home state is feeling what the 20s are like (#brrrrrrr).  So, this week's final post before Christmas has to do with all things cozy and warm from one of my favorite retailers, Nordstrom. Is there anything better than free shipping and free returns 365 days a year?

I've never met a cowl neck I didn't love.
This burnt red is holiday-tastic.

Dreamers by Debut $27.90

Anything made by Barefoot Dreams is by definition cozy!

Knit Slouch Beanie $40

Ugg also reigns in the cozy world. I covet this set for winter traveling!
Note: I've even seen these at the Ugg outlets if you have one nearby.

Travel Set $88

Such easy slippers for the guy in your life. 4 great colors!

Deer Stags Nordic Slippers $21.90

Even the little ones need some cozy in their lives.
Like the snap design to keep them ON.

Fleece Booties $24

Here's to many warm, cozy and fun-filled days and nights together.

Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays!

Week 6: Home for the Holidays

I am always intrigued by cooking stores like Williams-Sonoma (and Sur la Table too) and the people there.  Lots of gadgets and gizmos a plenty.  Every kind of pot, cutting board or utensil you could ever think of or want.  And at the holidays, I find all kinds of foot traffic in these stores.  If I could, I would pull up a seat in the corner with some popcorn and just watch all of the people and conversations being had over espresso machines and knife sets :) So here's my favorite finds this year from Williams-Sonoma, only because I, too, have perused the shelves with some gift giving in mind!

A friend clued me into these for kiddos!  Love the red.

Classic Apron, Kid 20% off now!

One word: DELICIOUS. Order them now.

Classic Croissants $31.96 (20% off!)

I swear by mini tools. They are clutch for every circumstance.

Silicone Mini Spatula & Spoonula $12.95

Excellent cutting boards that don't stain!

Epicurean Kitchen Series $11.95 - $34.95

Veggie brushes feel frivolous, but I use mine ALL the time.

Palm Veggie Brush $7.95

Happy hunting, friends!

Week 5: Sparkle and Shine

Christmas is inching up to us. I love walking the malls with holiday decor, festive music, and glitter and glam everywhere I look.  I was in Nordstrom recently and every single employee was decked out in holiday attire (I later came to understand it was their holiday party later that night!), but nonetheless, it made my shopping experience that much more fun.  Today's post (oops, a few days late) has everything to do with glitter and glam with one of my favorite jewelry retailers: Bauble Bar!  If you haven't purchased from them before, you'll come to discover their awesome gift wrap and packaging containing some super fun baubles.  AND, there's 25% off currently using code GIFT25.

Tassel earrings are all the rage. This gift set just wins!

Mini Gem Pinata Tassels $48

I never met a drop earring I didn't like. And this blue is stunning!

Fluoro Crispin Drops $48

I would wear these all winter long.

Deco Gum Drops $34

Love the organic design of this. Everyone needs a good gold cuff.

Tamayo Cuff $44

All things turquoise reign in my mind.  This one is so pretty (and a buried bauble currently!)

Galaxy Druzy Pendant $10!

Hope you find a few sparklers for yourself, too!

Cyber Monday: Week 4

So how much damage did you do over the weekend?  Black Friday specials started weeks ago, and then they lasted all weekend!  I remember just a few short years ago when all the madness would begin at 4am on Friday morning.  My mom, sister and I ventured out to Target and Kohl's to get all of the doorbuster deals (true doorbuster!), and we wearily stumbled back home by 7am with all kinds of loot.  Ah, the good old days.

Ready for Cyber Monday?  I'm trying not to be overwhelmed at the 100+ emails I'm getting every day advertising all the sales. So, I thought I would highlight a few sites that I plan to check out tomorrow and see what deals are out there.  If anything, you can bet on free shipping (and don't forget Friday, December 16th is free shipping day to guarantee arrival by Christmas eve!).

Nordstrom: current offer of 20% off sale for Black Friday weekend. Free shipping and returns always!  Maybe more to come?
J.Crew: unprecedented 40% off all weekend. I bet they will up the ante with free shipping tomorrow.
Banana Republic: they already released 50% off anything without any exclusions- online only!
Target: they sweetened the deal with an additional 15% off.  Get on this.
Brooks Brothers: up to 50% off sale and free shipping until December 19th!
Dick's Sporting Goods: Cyber Week includes North Face, Under Armour and Nike. 25% off online only.  VERY good deals.

And since I did a little shopping for family and friends on Friday and Saturday, here's a few fun finds I came across:

I've read about these wraps.  My sister has one. And I finally caved.

COMFORT city.

Bobeau $31.91

A classic pearl with gem. Can't wait to wear these.

Gem Pearl Earrings $33

Velvet is everywhere. I warned you. This berry color is under $11!

 Kiddo shopping? Buy these children's pj's. They feel SO good and $24!

Hanna Andersson $24

LL.Bean has had crazy sales. 20% off $50+. Get these for your guy.

And then you will get a $10 gift card for later!

Wicked Good Slippers $55.20

It's a jolly good shopping time for all!

Paper Source: Week 3

We are on the brink of some pretty intense shopping days to come, friends.  Black Friday, Small Business Saturday, Cyber Monday.  Just remember:shop smart and intentionally!  I don't typically think of Paper Source for gifts, but in the last few years they have upped their gift game big time. Given my love for all crafty projects, I came across some pretty fun finds for any one you're shopping for. 

If you know me, I have a profound love for all things 12 days of Christmas themed.
Adore this ornament set!

Ornament Set $36.95

Subtle? Nah. But super handy and a little cheeky.

Well-Groomed Pouch $16.95

I'm a fan of all things leopard/cheetah/animal print.
And it could double as a clutch in a pinch.

Kate Spade Leopard Pencil Pouch $30.95

I recently went to the San Diego Zoo and couldn't get enough of the giraffes.
I want to snuggle up with this one.

Gentle Giraffe Plush $26.95

Their custom journal notebooks are top notch.  I love giving and receiving these!
Plus the personalization with buffalo plaid makes it dynamo.

Personalized Journal $19.95

Get going! And if you shop now with code CHEER4YOU, you can save 20% before the big weekend hits!

Sunny Picks: Week 2

A couple weeks ago, I did an informal poll with some friends and family on their favorite catalog to receive in the mail.  I happen to love getting catalogs, but I know how quickly they can accumulate and create clutter in your home.  The benefit of catalog shopping is being able to see the merchandise styled in different ways than online.  So, next time you're sorting through the stack- find your favorite 3, and take some time with them.  See what you'd discover!

This week's picks come from Sundance Catalog fresh from Salt Lake City, Utah (a winner from the poll!).  Every picture makes me want to move west and snuggle up in a cozy ski cabin.  Robert Redford definitely did something special with this one!

If you don't own a French Knot hat or pair of gloves, you are missing out! I actually had the pleasure of meeting the founder and designer recently, and she's just as lovely as her designs.

Wren Song Hat $76

The southwest is in my blood, so I am drawn to these patterns and colors. 
How beautiful is this wrap?

Sabino Canyon Wrap $48

This season is ALL about velvet.  Shoes, dresses, accessories. Love it or hate it, it screams holiday attire!  This teal color is outstanding.

Romy Shift Dress $168

The detail on this sweet little pouch is perfect.  The colored wool truly makes it a treasure in and of itself. 

Raja Blossom Pouch $38

I bought this top in two colors years ago, and it's still a favorite.  The rouching along the sleeves and sides make it unique. I think the pink is the best!

Timeless Stripe Tee $68

Hope you found a treasure or two to make you smile this week!

5 Fresh Picks: Week 1

Did I read that right? 7 Saturdays left to shop for Christmas? Goodness that came fast!  I'm in the court of "let's celebrate Thanksgiving before it's all Christmas all the time" but given the fact that holiday shopping deals are starting now, I better get on it. So for the next 7 weeks I will share 5 picks from a featured merchant to help generate some gift giving ideas.  And after reading The More of Less, I must say that I am TRYING to buy only what I really need and keep that mindset for those whom I'm shopping.  I'm a gift giver 100%  (totally my love language) but I hope that my gifts communicate both thoughtfulness and utility, too.

So here we go!  This week's picks come from retailer Joe Fresh!  

By FAR, my favorite casual puffer coat.
I bought mine almost 4 years ago, and it's still in great shape. While mine snaps shut vs. this zipper, you couldn't ask for a better deal.  Plus, the RED.  Come on!

Funnel Neck Puffer $39

I purchased my first cotton coated (waxed) coat this year, and I love it.
So when I saw this denim coated skirt, I thought it would be a cool texture to have.

Coated Denim Skirt $39

Every boy I know loves a good pair of soft lounge pants.
This brushed flannel is lovely, and the little deer print is near perfection.

Men's Flannel Sleep Pant $19

I have several friends with newborns or who are pregnant, so don't the little ones deserve to look cute this holiday, too?  Seriously so fun!

Baby Unisex Onesie $10

I think I may be addicted to buffalo plaid. Uber cute and functional!

Pattern Knit Gloves $14

So what do you think?  Any winners for a family member?
By the way, I mentioned last week I wanted to share about my latest favorite necklace.  How sweet is that? Simple and a bit of a throwback to a family heirloom.  

Happy shopping, friends!

Fall Favorites

Friends- it's fall in New England, and my fashionista heart is so happy.  Layering, coats, boots...it's all fabulous. And while the foliage may have already peaked here, there is still 4 fabulous weeks until Thanksgiving = the mother of all fall holidays.  So before you start unpacking the holiday decor (have you SEEN how many stores have pulled out the Christmas stuff already?), I am offering 3 of my favorite fall finds.  Here's to soaking up a few final weeks before the hustle and bustle of December.

Cozy Open Cardigans

Who doesn't love wrapping up in warmth and softness?
These cardigans offer a great option for dressing up or lounging around the house.

The texture of this one is absolutely adorable. And pockets!

Merona for Target $29.99

Layering Button Downs

 Trust me when I say the key to all fall outfits is layering.

A great patterned button down is the perfect underpinning to add color and texture to an outfit. 

Classic tartan plaid, baby!

Uniqlo $19.90

The Ankle Boot 

If you haven't converted to wearing ankle boots with skirts and dresses, it's time.

This is such a great way to play with style- making it suitable for work and play!

The low ankle cut is perfect for tights and skirts!

Franco Sarto $119.95

 And if suede isn't your thing, the cut out is uber cool.

Diba Veda Bootie $44.95

I hope you're appropriately prepared now. 
More soon on my favorite necklace to wear with dresses like this and this.

 Happy end of October!

Snazzy Sneakers

Happy June, friends.  I have been swamped with an assortment activities at work and my blogging really took a step back (sorry about that!), but rest assured there have been lots of ideas swimming in my mind for posts!  I do love and enjoy summer so much in New England.  And while the weather (everywhere lately) has been a little wacky, I am working hard to get my summer wardrobe in place, including shoes.  I've often talked about the challenge of shoe shopping for me (just don't have a standard size foot!), so I usually don't love the process.  But I have been committed to trying lots of different styles and brands, in the hope to find some good staples to keep around.

This summer, I am embracing the white sneaker.  I have seen so many fun posts on Instagram and in the stores of the summer dress coupled with a cute white sneaker.  So I decided I'm going for it!

Am I too old to wear Converse again? Nah. 

Low Top Chuck Taylor $49.50

  The Italians know what they are doing with shoes.

Superga Cotu Sneaker $64.95

Love the navy accent stripe!

Mossimo Layla $12.74 (on sale!)

Such a clean, simple look.  Love.

Mossimo Lenia $14.99 (on sale!)

Super excited to try a pair soon with this dress!  Happy hunting!

Tapered Tee

My white t-shirt inventory is quite large.  I struggle to give them away because (as you may know) they are hard to find!  Usually a rip, tear or stain is what drives me to purge, but it's a hard process of letting go.  Recently, I went through my stash and let go of some favorites, which has left me with a vacancy I am painfully feeling in my wardrobe.  Until NOW!  I discovered on Instagram a lovely designer in Fall River, MA (hellloooo local and made in USA!) who makes tapered tees.  Sounds simple enough- and while $48 seemed really steep at the time- I wanted to both support a local designer while also secretly hope for a fabulous find. Guess who made out in the deal?!

Tapered Tee from Tapered Collection 

Tapered Collection, $48

It's tough to sell the value of a top like this- but here goes:  super softest supima cotton ever (it even smelled really nice upon arrival- fabric softener maybe?), lovely thick fabric (not see through), and the shape was so flattering.  It's more fitted around the waist (which I was looking for) and it complements my frame with the dolman cap sleeve.  It comes in 5 different colors, so I may just indulge in a second! I get this may not appeal to everyone, but I honestly wonder where this tee has been all my life? 

Sucker for Seersucker

I may be a little obsessed with seersucker.  That slightly puckered and flat stripe makes my heart sing!  In fact, I have (probably from 2004 or 2005?) a seersucker skirt suit from Isaac Mizrahi for Target that I STILL love (and fit in, thank God).  Now the season is upon us for men to whip out their seersucker pants, shorts and suits (I bet even Duchess Kate has one for little Prince George), we ladies can join the party with so many varied pieces in this fabulous fabric.  Which one is your favorite??

Adore the faux two piece dress.

Banana Republic on sale $108.00

Sailor buttons ON TOP of seersucker.  Perfect!

Loft $49.50

Classic pencil skirt.  A must have.

JCrew Factory $54.50

The blazer completes the look.

Talbots $179.00

Come ON- aren't you just obsessed now, too??

Tassel Me Happy

It's been a slow spring start in Boston, but Marathon Monday really kicked good weather in gear for us! While the mornings are still cool, the days are finally warming up and my toes (and white pale legs!) can begin to remember what it's like to see daylight again.  I did a huge purge of summer shoes over the winter...these are ripped, those are uncomfortable, these give me blisters...you get the idea.  And for a woman in her late 30s, I own way too many flip flops.  Seriously, I can't wear those to work!  So, I've been on a bit of a shoe shopping extravaganza.  (Did I mention I don't really love shoe shopping- I have a wide foot and my size can vary a great deal.) 

Here's my latest obsession: tassels on my shoes!  Fun fringe that makes it feel playful and yet at the same time classic.  Really excited about wearing a few of these beauties this season.

I've been on a JCrew kick lately.

$168 but 30% off right now!

Tell me these aren't just as cute for a lot less!

Mossimo for Target $24.99

Love me a good navy wedge.

Boden $138

Mini wedge and tassels = comfort!

Mossimo for Target (buy 1 get 1 50% off now)

Hope your toes get some sunshine, too!