On a budget blues...

As of August 1st, I am officially on a budget. The dreaded B word.

So I really had no business perusing the sale section over on Anthropologie but I just found myself there. I was innocently looking at interior design blogs and came across the most breathtaking closet interior. It was packed with beautiful dresses, skirts, and shoes. I have closet envy so I went window shopping.

You know, it always seems that you find the most when you aren't looking to spend any money.

Like this fab necklace. Seriously, how have I lived before this necklace.

The Artist's Rendering dress. So unique.

The beading on the Pellucid Wings Blouse is so gorgeous!

If my continued exercises in restraint pay off, I just might have to treat myself!

Big Brown Bags

Yesterday I received my July J Crew catalog.

I'm letting that sink in.

Anyway, while flipping through, ooing and aahing, my husband made an astute observations.

"You like big brown bags," he said. "If anyone ever asks what your style is, just tell them you like big brown bags."

Well, can I help it if J Crew makes beautiful big brown bags?

I have been in love with J Crew's Jericho tote for some time (why don't they have the blue anymore?!). Isn't it fab?



While cruising through ShopRuche's new arrivals, I found this long lost (albeit faux leather) sister from another mister...I may really need to pick this one up:


Artisan Cafe Carry On Purse - $56.99

Lunchtime Window Shopping

Is it a curse or a blessing to have not one, but three malls within five minutes of my workplace? A little of both I suppose. I tend to do most of my shopping online and then do my returns during my lunch break. On today's return run, I popped into Old Navy and I have to say...I am impressed with their latest rollout. They have quite a few J Crew look alikes from seasons' past and lots of rich jewel tones. I saw a few more items in store that are not (yet) available online (like a fab striped dolman sleeve pullover), but here are some of my favorites available from the site:


Speaking of dolman sleeves, I love this basic cocoon cardigan.

This cropped bold-strip pullover would look great with skinny jeans...

...and these boots!

I love this deep yellow gingham. This classic button up camp shirt comes in other patterns, too.

This cropped trench is cheerful in cherry red!

I'm kind of on the fence...but I kindof dig these charmeuse capris.

This cute mini-messenger comes in four colors.


I'm trying so hard to be good with my shopping (upcoming Napa trip), but these pieces are inexpensive and cute. I might have to temporarily suspend my closet-diet!

I totally need...

ORANGE! Ever since J Crew posted their new fall arrivals, I have been drooling over deep orange blazers and pullovers. Here in LA, the 90 degree weather extends into Thanksgiving territory so while cashmere and velvet may be calling my name, I need to keep my focus on items that are more practical.

Here are some of the pieces I've got my eye on:




Fabulously bright lip stains!

A casual chic dress.

Go trendy with colorblock.

I love this casual skirt - and it's jersey!

A bold belt as an accent.

This canvas wedge can work year-round in SoCal.

Is there a color that catches you? I'm so thrilled that J Crew is showing these bold colors again!

I'm alive and well!

Hello there...I know I've been so neglectful, but I had to come back and share this fantastic sale! Talbots is having an amazing dress and shoe sale on their site - all sale dresses are under $39.99 and all shoes are under $29.99. Combine it with coupon code 023087249 (thanks RetailMeNot.com), and you can get some fabulous summer pieces for a song!

Here is what I came away with:



Pink d'orsay leather flats - $23.99


Leather cinched bow espadrille - $23.99


Conical heel platforms - $23.99

They still have some beautiful shoes to pick from - but they are going fast!

The joys of home buying...

We're doing it, we're finally doing it: we are buying our first home.

As exciting and wonderful it is to know we'll be in our own home in just a few weeks, the process has been less than easy. Every step of the way there are snags, which I'm told is to be expected. We love the house, we're just trying to keep the finish line in sight at this point.

The good/fun news is that we are moving from a cramped two bedroom apartment with tiny kitchen to a spacious three bedroom with a living room and family room. Dear readers, this means shopping for furtniture!

Not just furniture but rugs, curtains, etc. So my focus here may change to more of the home-decorating variety. I hope to blog the process of moving, furnishing, and decorating. This has been one of the most exciting and stressful times of my life!

Here comes the jackpot question in advanced...

...What are you wearing New Year's Eve?

For me, New Year's Eve is the perfect opportunity to break out the bold, beautiful and sparkling. Sequins, gems, lamé, what have you. Here is my roundup of excellent choices for New Year's Eve that allow you to stick to your budget resolutions!


This top from the Limited is priced around $50 and has a gorgeous textured effect.

This top has a more casual feel and would look cute with jeans and an edgy jacket. Only $35!

At $20, this sequin infinity scarf dresses up anything for next to nothing.

"Ring" in the New Year (couldn't help it!) for only $4.

This glitter heels are GORGEOUS!

Keep everything else simple and set it off with glitter tights.

Go simple and classic in this one-shoulder dress. $121 and works for many occasions.

Whatever you wear, I hope you all have a very safe and happy New Year!