Tiered Ruffles

Jacket: Target (girls section); Shirt: Charlotte Russe; Skirt: H&M; Boots: Go Jane; Clutch: Swapped

Whenever I wear this skirt, I'm reminded of the ballet classes I took during my childhood.  Who says tiered ruffled skirts are only for little girls?

I don't know how I let the whole winter go by without wearing this skirt, but I'm happy I got to wear it at least once before the weather warms up because it's not a suitable length to wear without tights. 

And let's just pretend that the temperature is warm enough to wear this outfit as it is without putting my winter coat over it...

Spring weather where are you?  We are (im)patiently waiting for your arrival for good.

Stylish Shoes: Baby Phat Paula Shoe

As a Lucky Alpha Shopper, I became aware that Baby Phat offers a shoe called the Paula shoe and was asked my opinion on the look and versatility of the shoe.

Jacket: Zara (girls section); Jeans: Urban Outfitters (BDG); Top: Charlotte Russe; Baby Phat Paula Shoes: Courtesy of Lucky Magazine; Earrings: Amani DC; Necklace: Vintage

Versatility
Though these shoes aren’t appropriate office-wear for my place of employment, I could definitely envision the Paula shoe being worn on weekends, vacations or after hours events. I could style these shoes for daytime without difficulty, but I really think they are more appropriate for evening-wear.  As a petite girl, I have a fondness for (high) heels, especially when I go out on weekends and evenings. 

'Paula' shoe three ways
As a girl on a budget, the remixing (ability to wear an item in numerous ways) rule that I apply to clothing also applies to shoes. These shoes could be easily remixed with items I already own such as a printed dress, a maxi skirt, tank and jean jacket, or a pair of jeans, embellished top and a leather jacket (as I'm wearing in these pictures). Stay tuned for photo examples of two other looks soon!

Where to Wear the Paula Shoe?
Because of the height of these shoes, they would most likely be worn for activities where more sitting is involved like dinner or a sit-down concert.  I don't think the comfort level or height of the shoe is practical for anything more than minimal standing. 

Would I recognize the Paula shoe as an item from the Baby Phat brand?
If I didn’t know these shoes were from Baby Phat, I would most likely assume that they would be from another store I have frequented in the past that sometimes offer shoes with a similar aesthetic such as Steve Madden, Nine West or Aldo. These shoes have slightly changed my perception of the brand mainly because I was not previously aware that Baby Phat offered a shoe line to be quite honest. I have typically thought that Baby Phat focused on a younger demographic (teens, early 20-somethings), so when I have done shoe shopping recently, I have not thought to see what Baby Phat had to offer. I have purchased other Baby Phat products like fragrances on several occasions in the past though. The Paula shoe has made me reconsider the Baby Phat brand and I would be open to seeing other shoes that the brand offers.

Please note that I don’t accept payment for any reviews that appear on my blog or any other site such as Lucky Style Spotter where I have a presence. I only choose to review/discuss items that fit into my personal aesthetic or items that I think that readers would be interested in learning my point of view on.

Currently wishing for ...

Here are a few items that have caught my eye that I'd love to add to my wardrobe.

1. Top Shop Yellow Spot Blouse
2. Aldo Forwood Wedges
3. Top Shop Pleated Skirt by Rare
4. Zara Acordian Pleat Skirt
5. Jessica Simpson Dany Platforms
6. Ray Ban Aviators
7. Alloy Elona Floppy Hat
8. American Apparel Large Leather Pouch

The "It" List: 3-25-2011

Happy Friday folks... I hope you had a great week and an even better weekend planned!  Take some time to dive into these great links, there is so much great inspiration here!

• mama loves papa is looking cowgirl-chic for sure, what with posing with cows and sporting some adorable cowboy boots.  I just love this look! (find mama loves papa on twitter!)
• shen dove is rocking one of my favorite looks for spring... a maxi dress with tons of layers. Perfect for when you want to dress for spring, but still be warm! (find shen dove on twitter!)
• the capital barbie features shimmery metallics to add to your wardrobe for spring. This little skirt is just TOO cute! (find the capital barbie on twitter!)
• a spoonful of dish rounds up her favorite pieces from the recently launched (or re-launched) Target GO Collection.  There are SO many good pieces to choose from!
• daily crushes brings the sunshine to you with this gorgeous dress... and a gorgeous room. Both are sure to put a smile on your face!
• turn up the rad finds an amazing rug style that I have never seen before called the Boucherouite.  They are so lovely and unique! (find turn up the rad on twitter!)
• good tots features one simple maternity top in three great maternity outfits. If you have pregnant friends, or are expecting yourself - check out these great looks!
• a spot of whimsy is internet-stalking (in the friendliest way possible, of course!) the first family of fashion - The Hilfigers.   How can you not love these classic preppy looks? (find a spot of whimsy on twitter!)
• thought and musing goes all out with a vintage leopard print jacket.  This is such a fabulous piece and she carries it off so well - very fun!
• rosy + tart has my mouth watering with this simple tomato soup recipe. I can never turn tomato soup down! Yum! (find rosy + tart on twitter!)
• undeniable style is rocking these long wide leg jeans so well. I am smitten with this outfit... I just love a pop of red this season! (find undeniable style on twitter!)
• rose a la mode snagged this ultra hip straw fedora hat for spring and summer - it will look so fab on her, I just know! How would you style it? (find rose a la mode on twitter!)
• walking around {where the sidewalk begins} has me drooling over these sherbet-esque dining room chairs. Mmmmm, who doesn't love an ice cold bowl of sherbet? (find walking around on twitter)
• good life for less released her spring + summer 2011 looks:book - get your copy now for all of your spring shopping needs.  It's like having a personal shopper for the season! (find good life for less on twitter!)

the IT list is organized by jill of good life for less, for information on participating, click here!

Cropped and Yellow

Jacket: ?; Top: H&M; Skirt: Loft; Boots: Marshalls; Jewelry: Target and H&M

 I needed to bring a little sunshine to my outfit to counteract the cloudy weather of the last couple of days. I find it easier to be cheerful when it's sunny outside, but a pop of yellow in my outfit has the same effect on my mood as spending a little time in the sun. 

On another note, is anyone else planning to see the documentary Bill Cunningham New York?  It's playing in DC at this theatre starting on Friday. A few other cities are showing it as well.  After reading about the documentary in the New York Times, I added it to my must-see list.

Are there any other movies on your list to see?

Almost Color Blocked

Shirt: H&M; Cardigan: Old Navy; Skirt: Forever 21; Necklace: Forever 21

I didn't realize until I looked at these pictures that I would have accidentally been "on-trend" if I had chosen a solid colored shirt in a bold color and switched out my tights for a more colorful pair.  I'll definitely try that later on this season with this skirt.

On a completely different note, I have an admission to make.  I totally quit Project 365  already.  I honestly wasn't feeling inspired every day and decided to stop since it was no longer fun.  I might try a modified version and just take a photo a week.  I still think it's a fun way to document the year, but a picture a day especially in the winter time was challenging for me because of the lack of sunlight in the evenings when I actually had time to take photos.  I'm feeling way more inspired now that spring is here.  I don't usually like to quit things, but it was really beginning to become a chore.  I really commend folks that make it the entire year without missing a day.

I'm a little behind on my blog visiting/commenting this week, but plan to catch up over the next day or so! 

Maxi Casual

Denim Jacket: Forever 21; Maxi Skirt: Forever 21; Black Heels: Nine West; Sunnies: H&M; Clutch: ?

 I love skirts of all lengths from mini, to midi to maxi.  For some reason, I don't think to wear longer skirts in the winter, but now that spring is here, I'm happy to wear them again.  I don't believe in the rule that just because you are short means that you should not wear maxi skirts or dresses.  Maxi skirts were my skirt length of choice during high school.  I'm still happy to wear them occasionally as an adult.

As long as a maxi skirt is worn with heels, I think they work just fine for short ladies too. 

For those that follow style rules, it's okay to bend (or break) them once in while.

Pop of Red

Shirt: Express (old); Skirt: H&M; Shoes: Go Jane; Belt: Nordstrom (Junior's)

This skirt is example of an item that I never imagined I'd get so much wear out of; I usually wear this skirt year-round with my favorite wide belt.  Some clothing and accessory items are remixed in different ways each time and others like this skirt and belt combo, are worn in very similar ways over and over again.  This will probably be the last time I wear this skirt with black tights and suede shoes for a while though.

And since spring has arrived (yay!), here are a few other ways I've worn the skirt and belt combination in warmer weather.

Spring Reading List

Spring is almost here, so it's time for another seasonal reading list!  It's funny that I've been thinking over a Spring clothing wish list for days, but I have my reading list all ready to go. I think it's because with clothing, I get overwhelmed with trying to stretch my money as far as possible, where as I get most of my books from my local library or Paperbackswap : ) Choices are always easier when there is very little money involved.  I will undoubtedly read more than four books this spring because I'm a pretty fast reader, but these are the only books that come to mind that I'd like to cross off my to-read list. 

Love for No Reason by Marci Shimoff - I really enjoyed Marci Shimoff's last book Happy for No Reason, so I knew I'd add her latest book to my to-read list when I heard about it.  I also think it's awesome that she often responds to tweets from readers on Twitter, so I can actually tell her about how I felt about the book after I finish it.

The Missing Mentor by Mary E. Stutts - This book was given to me several months ago and it looks like an interesting and helpful read for young professional women.

I am Number Four by Pittacus Lore - So I admit I sometimes enjoy reading books written for teens.  I loved The Hunger Games trilogy; it was disturbing but very compelling.  I'd heard the buzz about the I am Number Four book and movie, so I figured I'd give this book a try first and if I like it, see the movie as well.

What to Wear, Where? by Hillary Kerr and Katherine Power - I enjoy reading about current trends on the Who What Wear blog, so I thought I'd read this book.

What's on your reading list this spring?

The "It" List: 3-18-2011

Where is the month of March going? Here is a slightly belated "It List" due to yesterday's day of silence for Japan.

• one hundred inspirations pulls together this Rachel Bilson look for less (less than $100 even!) - this is a perfectly simple look for spring and summer!
• thought and musing takes a gloomy day and brightens it up with a bold blue top - I love how this color adds instant punch to any outfit!
• a spot of whimsy features 'it' girl Amanda Seyfriend... it such a beautiful spotlight on such a uniquely gorgeous gal! (find a spot of whimsy on twitter!)
• rosy + tart gives a quick tutorial (it's so easy, it's hardly a recipe) on how to roast tomatoes and it has my mouth watering for farmer's market season! (find rosy + tart on twitter!)
• second street east shows off some great home goods she found at The Foundary - I am loving this unique little side table! Decor blogs always have such a great inside track! (find second street east on twitter!)
• the capital barbie scopes out sweet pleats for spring and summer - and shares her ideas on how to make pleats work for you! (find the capital barbie on twitter!)
• daily crush is loving the look of several stacked bracelets and I am too, what a fun and creative trend. She features inspiration and tips on how to get the look for yourself! (find daily crush on twitter!)
• a spoonful of dish is inspired by Inslee Hayne's girly and chic illustrations. So cute!
• undeniable style bought a very pretty small desk and gains inspiration on how to style it... if you are tight on space but still need a small work area, this is perfect! (find undeniable style on twitter!)
• sweetie pie style is crushing on mini-bags... they are perfect with a sundress or shorts for spring and summer. I am loving them too! (find sweetie pie style on twitter!)
• mama loves papa takes a vintage thrift store find and refashions it into something more current.  I 'sneaked' the before picture above... click through for the after! (find mama loves papa on twitter!)
• keep collected is rocking the most perfect spring look in my opinion. The hair, the necklace, the jeans... I love the simple appeal.
• shen dove style is spring-ready with a great cropped trench.  I just love trenches in any form lately and this look is amazing! (find shen dove style on twitter!)
• walking around {where the sidewalk begins} has this pretty summer tunic on her wish list... I think it's on mine now as well. I love this for the beach or pool! (find walking around on twitter!)
• rose a la mode sneak peeks some of her fashionable duds from the Texas Style Conference last weekend. I can't wait to hear more! (find rose a la mode on twitter!)
• turn up the rad takes $4 Anthropologie cloth napkins (four dollars!) and turns them into throw pillows. Ta-da! I love these kinds of DIY's! (find turn up the rad on twitter!)

the it list is organized by jill of good life for less... for information on how you can be involved, click here!

Help Others

I've read across the blogosphere about a blogger Day of Silence tomorrow, March 18th organized by Utterly Engaged and Ever Ours.  The purpose of the day is to raise awareness and money for the events taking place in Japan.  The charity picked by the organizers for fundraising is Shelter Box, an international disaster relief charity that has been delivering boxes of aid to the people of Japan for the past several days. If you're interested in donating toward this effort, you can do so by checking out For Japan With Love and clicking the link to donate in the upper right hand corner.

Accidentally Festive

Cardigan: Old Navy; Dress: Target; Shoes: Target; Earrings: Mod Cloth; Necklace: Jess LC

I wasn't originally going to post a picture of today's outfit, but because I was accidentally festive, I decided to go ahead and post it.  To be completely honest, I didn't actually realize it was Saint Patrick's Day until after I was already dressed this morning and it was mentioned on the news...whoops!  Talk about flukes.  I guess I get a pass on not being aware of the holiday since I'm not actually Irish : )

Guest Post: Streets and Stripes

I did a guest post on Chaucee's Streets and Stripes blog.   Chaucee is an awesome photographer, fabulous knitter and has a great sense of style.  I really enjoyed doing the post!  Check it out here.

Earthy Colors

Shirt: Banana Republic; Skirt: Urban Outfitters; Cardigan: H&M; Shoes: Nine West; Necklace: Target

My outfit goes pretty well with the brick wall I'm standing in front of in these photos.

 

Oh how I missed my outdoor brick wall!  It's not a very exciting background, but is still my favorite photo-taking spot.  The extra sunlight will allow me to take more photos in front of it as long as the weather cooperates.  I will try to venture to other locations as the weather gets warmer though.  DC is full of great photo locations that I have yet to take advantage of on this blog.

Do you have a favorite photo-taking spot?

Pretending Spring Has Sprung

Trench Jacket: H&M; Shirt: H&M; Jeans: Gap; Heels: Zappos; Jewelry: H&M, Target, Forever 21; Louis Vuitton Bag: Gift

The warmer temperatures and extra sunlight due to day light savings time allowed me to pretend that spring has already arrived.  I purchased this trench jacket as a birthday gift to myself last week.  I have a longer Plenty by Tracy Reese trench that I purchased from Anthropologie last winter that I love to wear, but think this short trench will come in handy for more casual occasions. I never thought I'd say this because I do love my skirts and dresses, but I'm really starting to enjoy wearing jeans again for the first time in a long time!

Style Profile: Spicy Candy DC

Photos: Courtesy of Spicy Candy DC

For this edition of Shen Style Profiles, Carlis and Katya of Spicy Candy DC were kind enough to answer a few questions about their style and insight into fashion in the nation's capital! Carlis and Katya both have personal style that is a unique and fashion forward take on current trends and classic looks.  They both have awesome bags and use pops of color to put together stylish looks.  So let's get down to the questions!

Shen Dove: I think it's so great that you decided to launch your blog together; it's nice to see the elements of both of your personal styles in your posts! Why did you decide to start a blog together as opposed to doing blogs separately?

Carlis and Katya: I guess the best answer would be that "two styles are always better than one" :) We feel like it gives our readers variety since our styles are very different. Also, a big part for us doing the blog together is because we have a lot of things in common and we get to enjoy a lot of different activities and take photos at the same time. Finally, we each have very unique and different strengths ... so it's nice to work as a team. Although blogging is nothing more than a hobby for us, at times it feels like a little mini business. It's all about time management, focus, specific goals, and lots and lots of networking! :)

Shen Dove: How would you describe your personal style? Is it influenced by your career/job?

Carlis: I would describe my personal style as flirty/casual with a bohemian flare! I love feeling comfortable in anything I wear. Thankfully I work for a company where I can wear casual outfits every day - I’m not a fan of business suits or button down shirts.
Katya: I would define my style as casual/chic. I absolutely love basics and timeless pieces. My style is not influenced by my current job since I work your typical 9-5 and you can't really get too creative with business suits, but that is another reason why I love blogging so much - it's my style outlet and something that makes my mundane life just a little more fun!

Shen Dove: How have the cities you've lived in influenced your style?

Carlis: I’m originally from Bolivia, I came to the states when I was 11. I think that the reason I love bright neon colors and fun patterns is because I grew up with that, so yes... I think that the places where I lived and visit definitely influenced my style over the years.
Katya: I lived most of my childhood in Ukraine and South America (Venezuela). Each city is very unique in styles but the women take style and fashion very seriously! Even at such a young age, I was already "dressing up" for dinner haha. Aside from that, I would say that my biggest influences have been acquired here in the States.... especially because of our proximity to NYC - I get so inspired by NYC's street style every time I go visit (which is often).

Shen Dove: Since I also live in DC, I'm curious to know about a few local shops and boutiques that you have you had the most success with finding great things? Do you have an example of a great recent find?

Carlis: Unfortunately I don't shop at local boutiques very often. Most of my wardrobe is from H&M, Forever21, Marshalls, TJ Maxx and of course great vintage items from Goodwill and Unique. My latest great find was a Michael Kors cardi I found at Marshalls for the amazing price of $10!!!!
Katya: I don't shop at local boutiques very often either but I recently found a really amazing top that I plan to wear for my birthday at Periwinkle in Alexandria - they have some really neat stuff, especially statement rings! I also love most of the boutiques in Old Town. They have amazing jewelry shops and fun little stores that carry everything from vintage items for your home to lingerie, to neat outfits for my dog Mimi!

Shen Dove: What other spots (eateries, shops, entertainment, etc.) do you suggest for folks visiting or new to the city that are must-see's?
Carlis and Katya: The beauty of blogging is that we get to do so much. We are the type that love to give our readers not just a cute outfit to look at but also an array of things that will send their visual sensor through the roof. We try to explore every corner of this city and its surrounding areas so yes, we've made a long list of our favorite places that we'd love to share:

• Where we eat: On a nice day, Leopold's cafe in Georgetown is a must - the private patio is delightful and the desserts are delicious; 2Amy's pizza - def try the DOC style Margarita; Georgetown cupcake - yes, cliche but truly the best; Sushi and liche martini's at Mate; beer and mussels at Granville Moors on H street; brunch at Creme Cafe on U street or Hudson Restaurant on M Street; coffee and the best grilled cheese at Northside Social in Arlington.
• Where we go: We love spending time outside on a nice day, so some of our favorite spots are: The gardens at the American Horticultural Society - bring a picnic blanket and be ready to enjoy the most beautiful compilation of flowers; the park at Georgetown looking over the Potomac, followed by drinks at Nick's; the Hirshhorn museum and the Newseum; wine tasting at Chrysalis vineyards followed by a stroll through Middleburg, VA; Hillwood Estate 

Shen Dove: What items are you excited about wearing next season?

Carlis: I'm def excited for the come back of bell bottoms and also the dresses that are longer in the back and short at front, I find them so sexy!
Katya: NUDES! OMG I love nudes. Also, floppy hats, maxi/sheer skirts, and white denim.

Shen Dove: You both have fantastic accessories that really add a creative element to your style. What accessories item do you plan to keep forever and why?

Carlis: I’m not as big on jewelry as Katya is, she always find the greatest pieces, but I do love hats and fun sun glasses. My current fav item that I think will def be with me for a long time is my leopard fedora hat, it seriously goes with every outfit I put together.
Katya: I rather go without food than without accessories (ok fine, that might be a little exaggerated), but I do love a perfect accessory. My favorites are: Vintage red purse that also turns into a clutch; RayBan sunnies; my collection of rings, vintage belts, and my Anne Klein chunky watch.

Shen Dove: Looking your best doesn't necessarily mean spending your entire paycheck; do you have any tips for shopping on a budget?

Carlis: Yes! Never go shopping in a hurry, take your time! I spend a lot of time in the sale sections and even though most sale sections look overwhelming if you take your time and seriously look thorough all that’s there you will find something fab! I also would suggest to try Goodwill or any thrift store for some amazing vintage finds.
Katya: I absolutely love designer sale sites like Gilt. I've found some amazing items on there for 1/3 of the price. Online shopping is not as exciting but there is opportunity to compare prices and it gives you a bigger selection. I just finally found the House of Holland stockings that I've been obsessing over for months in the UK, it was shipped to me within 5-10 bus days for only $5.95!

Shen Dove: Do you have a piece of advice you'd like to convey to anyone interested in starting a blog that you wish someone had told you?

Carlis and Katya: Absolutely! Do it for the right reasons (not for fortune and fame). Find your niche, and don't ever, ever, ever get discouraged by the lack of views or followers because at the end of the day, it should be something you enjoy doing for yourself - not for anyone else!

Shen Dove: Do you have any personal style rules you live by? If so, what are they?

Carlis: I don’t have rules at all! I would just say have fun creating your outfits and stay true to your personal style.
Katya: Yes, sometimes less is more and comfort is key!

Shen Dove: Thanks for the interview ladies!  

Be sure to check out Carlis and Katya's unique take on DC style on their blog and even more great content on their Facebook page!

Rose Colored Glasses

Shirt: Forever 21; Jeans: Urban Outfitters; Belt: ?; Shoes: Thrifted; Glasses: Urban Outfitters

I don't have much to say today except that I'm sending positive thoughts and prayers to those affected by the earthquake and tsunami in Japan.  I'm admittedly a news junkie and even I had to turn off the news because the coverage was bumming me out.  I'll definitely be making a donation to a rescue/ relief organization before the week is over.  I don't think I've made a monetary donation to a rescue/relief organization since the Haiti earthquake last year, so it's over due that I give back in some small way anyway to others in need.  

I'm sure that I'm not the only one that feels like I have so much to be grateful for after the events of last week.  Even this daydreamer had to look beyond my 'rose colored glasses' to recognize that there is more to the world than the fun things I love like fashion, books and art.

Have a productive week and stay positive!

Currently Reading: An Object of Beauty by Steve Martin
Currently Listening to: Assorted mix of Pandora stations

Kate Spade: Women for Women Bags and Jewelry

Last week while I was in New York for my birthday, I went to the Kate Spade New York store in Soho to view the Kate Spade collection of bags and jewelry crafted by women in Rwanda.  The bags  crafted by women in Rwanda were created using traditional skills passed down from generations in Africa.

According to the Women for Women's website, "since 2005, Kate Spade New York and Women for Women International have been working together to promote micro-enterprises for women in the still-recovering communities throughout Bosnia & Herzegovina. In the past year, nearly 400 jobs were created in Bosnia & Herzegovina, Kosovo and Rwanda." 

I love accessories created and inspired by Africa (and other countries around the world) that are fairly traded and created.  Though most of Kate Spade's items are beyond my current spending price-point, I enjoyed viewing the collection.

 

When I first saw pictures in the bags in the March issue of Marie Claire, I immediately thought of the bags crafted in the Gullah tradition in a few southern states, which I guess makes sense, because the Gullah tradition of crafting baskets was a retention of blacks from Africa.  The photos of the bags piqued my interest, so I decided to attend the viewing at Kate Spade which was very nice.  The store was brightly colorful and there was champagne for guests. 

Some of the woven bags were in the bright colors which are expected from Kate Spade accessories and can be worn with a variety of looks from casual to dressy occasions.   Check out Kate Spade's website to see more from the collection.

Sources: Kate Spade, Women for Women International

The "It" List: 3-11-2011

Happy Friday everyone! The weekend is finally upon us, I know I am ready!  Take some time to check out these awesome links... 

• shen dove style styles one dress two completely different ways. I just love it when bloggers flex their creativity like this. Check out both outfits! (find shen dove style on twitter!)
• a spot of whimsy is suffering from the end-of-winter blues (I second that!) until she finds Chanel's 2011 Spring nail polish line. So gorgeous - this will instantly brighten your mood. (find a spot of whimsy on twitter!)
• sweetie pie style rounds up gorgeous rose gold pieces, a popular trend these days for sure. My favorite is this "smooch" necklace! (find sweetie pie style on twitter!)
• rosy + tart has a ruche gift card giveaway on her site... it ends today so hop on over! I am loving this pink scarf from ruche - perfect for spring! (find rosy + tart on twitter!)
• second street east is scheming up a greek key dresser diy - I absolutely can not wait to see her finished product because the inspiration is swoon worthy! (find second street east on twitter!)
• a spoonful of dish features this sweet bicycle print that definitely has words to live by.  I just love the idea here! 
• undeniable style is giving away an absolutely gorgeous dress from Shabby Apple - you must pop by and enter this giveaway! (find undeniable style on twitter!)
• daily crush is headed off to Ireland - ahem, just in time for Saint Patricks Day, ay?  I will be stalking her blog for a trip recap!  Go give her a little 'bon voyage'! (find daily crush on twitter!)
• keep collected is rocking the look I am totally coveting for spring - a maxi dress with lots of layers!  Check out her look for inspiration! 
• the capital barbie rounds up gorgeous wallets.  I am loving this simple Kate Spade number in robin's egg blue. Perfect for spring! (find the capital barbie on twitter!)
• rose a la mode is giving away a gorgeous Kate Spade bag that is just screaming warm weather. Stop by her blog for a chance to win! (find rose a la mode on twitter!)
• thought and musing is totally killing this sequin-by-day look. I absolutely love it when tops can pull double duty like this.
• jewelscapes brilliantly pairs bright blue with turquoise accessories. I just love these two colors together, it reminds me of the beach!
• good tots tracked down the most precious wood and fabric handmade toys on etsy. If you have a friend that is expecting a baby you just have to give some of these as a gift, what a great keepsake!
• good life for less is smitten with red for spring... and especially these bright shorts!  They were a fan favorite and for good reason! (find good life for less on twitter!)

the it list is produce by jill of good life for less for more information on how you can be involved, click here!

Wardrobe rules

Skirt: vintage; Shirt: Old Navy; Belt: Urban Outfitters; Shoes: Go Jane Earrings: Mod Cloth

This skirt was purchased in January right before the 30 for 30.  Though I think this skirt is really better suited for the fall, I thought I'd get one wear out of it before spring arrives.  I have a rule I adhere to pretty strictly, that if I haven't worn something in the past season, that it has to get swapped, sold or given away.  There are some items in my closet that I will never part with, but for most items, if I don't wear it in a season, it makes no sense to have it taking up space in my closet.  I'm going to work on being smarter about what I add and subtract from my closet in the future.  From a fiscal standpoint it makes more sense for my spending habits to mature as I am growing older anyway. I don't want to be the little old lady that lived in the shoe because I chose to purchase clothing over saving my money.

Do you have any similar rules for how you make sure you are wearing all of the items you own?

Purple Power

Dress: Urban Outfitters; Cardigan: H&M; Shoes: Payless; Necklace: Claire's; Earrings: Amani Ju DC

Yellow may be my favorite color to wear these days, but I always feel powerful in purple.  I have a fair amount of purple in my wardrobe, but I still gravitate to the color when I see it in an item in a store.  I definitely plan to try my hand at color blocking with this dress and other bright colored items this spring.  I've been window shopping recently, and have a lot of inspiration.

Do you have a power color?

P.S. Thanks for the birthday wishes yesterday!

Polka Dot Love on my Born Day

I have a love of all types of prints including polka dots, so imagine my excitement when I heard that this month's pick for Everybody, Everywear was polka dots!  I knew I had to participate.

Today also happens to be my birthday.  I'm a year older and hopefully a year wiser.

Shirt: H&M
Skirt: Target
Cardigan: H&M
Shoes: Thrifted
Belt: Nordstrom (Junior's Dept)