NYC Recessionista

'Words To Live By' Wednesdays

2012-02-15T14:00:00.000-05:00

Here's this week's edition of 'Words To Live By' Wednesdays.

Source: vi.sualize.us via NYC on Pinterest

30 percent off at J. Crew

2012-02-15T12:30:00.000-05:00

Speaking of J. Crew, through Friday you can take an extra 30% off their final sale items, online only, with code SHOPNOW at checkout.

AND this weekend, at their Factory Stores, all spring styles will be on sale for President's Weekend, with discounts of up to 50% off.

Sneak peek at J. Crew Fall 2012

2012-02-15T10:00:00.000-05:00

FabSugar has a great slideshow up from yesterday's J. Crew Fall 2012 runway show...sigh. I love how they effortlessly mix fancier pieces with much more casual pieces. Jenna Lyons is an outfit master.

(All images courtesy of FabSugar / Getty)

30 percent off at Banana Republic

2012-02-14T11:30:00.000-05:00

Through Thursday, take 30% off full-priced styles at Banana Republic with code BRSWEET at checkout.

20 percent off at Gap today

2012-02-14T11:15:00.000-05:00

Shop at Gap (online only) today and enter code GAPLOVESU at checkout for 20% off ... enjoy!

Since it's still kinda chilly in NYC, how about a red ikat print scarf for Valentine's Day?

(Source)

Happy Birthday Valerie

2012-02-14T11:00:00.000-05:00

Today I want to wish one of my bestest friends Valerie a Happy Birthday ... yes, her name is Valerie AND she was born on February 14th AND she has the most gorgeous red hair I think I've ever seen in my life :)

Val and I in college back in September 2001.

Valerie and I met almost 12 years ago when we lived down the hall from each other in the dorm freshman year of college. I was having some difficulty adjusting to college life, and she was one of the nicest and sweetest people to help me get used to being away from home. That turned into the discovery of a mutual love of music, shopping trips, Sunday mornings spent at cafes, and a friendship more than a decade long.

Now we've been through graduations, career changes, marriages and babies (!) and even though we're separated by geography, we still manage to stay in touch somehow.

Val and I on her wedding day in August 2010.

Val and I on my wedding day in October 2010.

Happy Birthday darling! Love you!

Tuesday Tunes

2012-02-14T09:30:00.000-05:00

It's time for this week's edition of Tuesday Tunes.

Happy Valentine's Day, y'all ... here's one of my favorite love songs of all time.

Forever 21 necklace

2012-02-13T15:30:00.000-05:00

Love the deep blue beads on this new Forever 21 necklace ...

(Image courtesy of Forever 21)

Sale prices - in stores vs. online

2012-02-13T13:30:00.000-05:00

This past weekend, I noticed something very interesting --

We often expect online discounts and coupon codes to be better than in-store sales, but that's not always the case. I went into a local Old Navy store over the weekend and scooped up several tops, and I noticed huge differences in the sale prices:

This striped boat neck top ... online sale price: $14.99; in-store sale price: $5.49.

This open knit cap sleeve sweater ... online sale price: $20.99; in-store sale price: $8.49.

This bow back animal print top ... online price: $34.94 (not on sale!); in-store sale price: $9.99.

This tab-sleeved patterned top ... online price: $24.94 (not on sale!); in-store sale price: $19.50.

(All images courtesy of Old Navy)

So ... that means if I had shopped online, I would have paid $95.86 (or $76.69 if I had used the 20% off coupon I blogged about earlier this week).

BUT ... shopping in-store, I only spent $43.47!!!

This makes no sense to me! Why the big difference in prices?! Makes me feel bad for the people who shopped online this weekend expecting to get the best deal! Just goes to show ... check the stores before you shop online, and compare, compare, compare.

More IFB Recaps

2012-02-13T11:45:00.000-05:00

Two more fellow bloggers I met at the IFB conference last week have put recaps up on their blog -- Candance of The Style Climber and Ely of Ripped Nylon. Check them out!

15 percent off at Piperlime

2012-02-13T10:30:00.000-05:00

Today and tomorrow only, take 15% off site-wide at Piperlime with code XOXO at checkout.

Their 'Girl on a Budget' section is always fun to peruse.

Things That Pinterest Me

2012-02-13T10:00:00.000-05:00

Here's this week's installment of:

(Pinterest logo courtesy of Pinterest, of course)

This week, with it being Valentine's Day and all, I am of course thinking about hearts :)

These dainty Bauble Bar earrings are pretty sweet ... so simple you could wear them every day.

Source: baublebar.com via NYC on Pinterest

This heart sweater looks really cute paired with the pleated skirt ...

Source: us.asos.com via NYC on Pinterest

I can't think of a better occasion to wear sparkly heart flats than Valentine's Day ...

Source: weheartit.com via NYC on Pinterest

These tights are very sexy - love the scallop detailing and tiny hearts where garter belts would be ...

Source: us.asos.com via NYC on Pinterest

I love this heart blouse ... it's very fun and cheeky, but layering it with other more basic pieces gives it a certain sophistication.

Source: 4.bp.blogspot.com via NYC on Pinterest

40 percent off at Banana Republic

2012-02-13T09:45:00.000-05:00

Today only, take 40% off one full-priced item at Banana Republic (in stores only!) with this coupon --

(Image courtesy of Banana Republic)

20 percent off at Gap

2012-02-13T09:00:00.000-05:00

Today's the last day to take 20% off at Gap (online only) with code GAPLOVE at checkout.

(Image courtesy of Gap)

Six years ago

2012-02-12T21:30:00.000-05:00

Can't believe it was 6 years ago tonight that Kevin and I were all snowed in :)

New arrivals at Payless

2012-02-12T14:00:00.000-05:00

Have you seen some of the latest spring arrivals over at Payless? They're totally cute and chic!

Source: payless.com via NYC on Pinterest

Tips from Janie Bryant

2012-02-12T12:00:00.000-05:00

I love that Redbook Magazine did a feature with Mad Men Costume Designer Janie Bryant about dressing sexy. I love even more that they included some Maidenform shapewear in the piece.

If you're a regular Mad Men viewer, then you know that Playtex was one of their clients back in Season 2 -- and they tried to come up with sexier ads to compete with this Maidenform ad --

(Source)

Which led to this 'Are you a Jackie or a Marilyn' ad for Playtex --

(Source)

I do agree with Janie that undergarments are almost -- if not more -- important than what you have on over them. I think I might need to have this slip. Oooh la la.

(Source)

Cap-toe flats plus 30 percent off

2012-02-11T13:00:00.000-05:00

These cap-toe flats from Ann Taylor are so completely adorable ... what a fun way to add a little pop of color to your outfit if you're a little hesitant to go bold.

(Image courtesy of Ann Taylor)

PS -- if you're still a little color shy, they have a black version, too.

PPS -- for a limited time, all full-priced shoes, jewelry and accessories are 30% off ... no code needed.

Stay in and shop at Banana Republic

2012-02-11T12:00:00.000-05:00

Today and tomorrow only, take 25% off your entire purchase at Banana Republic when you stay in and shop online ... just enter code BRSTAYIN at checkout.

This blouse -- with an ultra delicate floral print in spring colors -- looks totally fresh against a denim-esque pencil skirt with a wide waistband.

(Image courtesy of Banana Republic)

Extra 50 percent off sweaters at Ann Taylor

2012-02-11T11:45:00.000-05:00

For a limited time, already-reduced sweaters at Ann Taylor are an extra 50% off, both in stores and online ... no code needed.

This striped sweater has a very cool, casual 70s feel to it.

(Image courtesy of Ann Taylor)

Weekend Wants

2012-02-10T17:30:00.000-05:00

Here are some things I'd love for this weekend ... a.k.a. my Weekend Wants.

1) To catch up on sleep ... after not feeling so hot last weekend, this is numero uno for us this weekend.

A big ol' serene bed like this would be nice, no?

Source: casasugar.com via Molly on Pinterest

2) To catch up on work... sadly, I also have TONS of work to catch up on. Boo.

3) To enjoy a yummy (early) Valentine's Day dinner ... the hubby and I are trying a new steakhouse on Saturday night. We're actually using an OpenTable coupon for 50% off!

(Image courtesy of Lucas Steakhouse)

4) To check out Fashion Week ... well, not really. I'm not cool enough to attend the shows, but I love checking out the designs on NY Magazine's website. And then I play to try and find wallet-friendly versions of the major trends for y'all :)

5) To watch the Grammy Awards ... Adele is seriously amazing, and she's singing live on Sunday night for the first time since her vocal chord surgery. Click here to listen to her NPR 'Tiny Desk' concert. She's a force.

Source: roxwel.com via NYC on Pinterest

What are you up to this weekend?

IFB video

2012-02-10T14:45:00.000-05:00

The young genius behind the blog Bobbie Austin's Closet stopped me in my tracks at the IFB conference earlier this week and did a little "[wo]man on the street" interview with me about my outfit ... very fun!

It's really neat to see where everyone's outfits came from ... but if you want to see me, scroll to about the 4:55 mark.

Enjoy!

Dresses by Carrie Hammer

2012-02-10T11:45:00.000-05:00

I spotted designer Carrie Hammer in this unbelievably fabulous green dress at the IFB Conference on Wednesday and immediately asked her where she got it...little did I know it was her own design :)

I absolutely love the retro feel to it ... it's so very Mad Men. The prices are a little out of my comfort zone, but the dresses are custom made to fit you ... which some might say is priceless.

Clueless

2012-02-10T11:00:00.000-05:00

Is it so wrong that I would still totally wear these outfits today?

Source: janeaustenfilmclub.blogspot.com via NYC on Pinterest

Great outfit

2012-02-10T10:30:00.000-05:00

I love the way this entire LOFT outfit is styled, from head to toe.

(Image courtesy of LOFT)

Free shipping upgrade at Sundance

2012-02-10T09:30:00.000-05:00

If you're in the market for a Valentine's Day gift, then might I suggest checking out Sundance Catalog -- today is the last day for a free shipping upgrade to 2-day shipping on all in-stock items.

They have incredible jewelry and a lot of it is handmade by artists in the Sundance community.

Here are some of their beautiful pieces --

This simple heart pendant

This lapis ring

This turquoise earrings

(All images courtesy of Sundance Catalog)

20 percent off at Old Navy

2012-02-10T09:00:00.000-05:00

Through Sunday, take 20% off at Old Navy (online only) with code ONBIG20 at checkout.

Here are some of my favorite items right now --

This dress

This handbag

This button down

(All images courtesy of Old Navy)

20 percent off at H&M

2012-02-09T13:00:00.000-05:00

Through Valentine's Day at H&M, take 20% off any one item of your choice at U.S. stores with this coupon.

Of course, I just bought three items there earlier this week, pre-coupon. Isn't that always the way?

Spring jewelry at Bauble Bar

2012-02-09T11:30:00.000-05:00

I've only checked out Bauble Bar once or twice before, but I think I need to start shopping there more often :) They have some really cute jewelry that would be perfect for spring!

Source: baublebar.com via NYC on Pinterest

40 percent off at Ann Taylor

2012-02-09T11:00:00.000-05:00

For a limited time, take 40% off one full-priced item at Ann Taylor with this coupon in-store or code LUXE40 at online checkout.

10 things I learned at the IFB Conference

2012-02-09T10:30:00.000-05:00

Yesterday, I attended the IFB Conference at Milk Studios. It was a very fun, interesting and overwhelming day. I have learned so much already in my nearly 4 years of blogging, and yet today I realized that I still have so much to learn.

The sky high heels at IFB.

Here are my top 10 takeaways from the day:

1. How active you are and what you say is more important than how many followers you have.

2. When you're on Twitter, it's still so important to write well and express yourself well -- even in 140 characters.

3. Facebook is considered to be even more important than Twitter by some (good thing I just started a FB page then!).

4. Our blogs often interfere with our everyday lives (Ha!).

5. The mantra of your blog should dictate your content. What's your mantra? Mine has always been "Limited means. Unlimited style."

6. Readers want beautiful and interesting content. As part of this, everyone seems to be obsessed with Pinterest.

7. You should ask yourself: Would you be interested to read what you write?

8. Feedback on your blog can be completely infectious.

9. Most bloggers are still blogging the "old school" way on their laptops as opposed to on their iPhones and/or iPads.

10. Your blog is basically your online style resume ... it could even land you a job.

The panelists were very insightful, the people I met were really friendly, and I even had the chance to chat with two of my favorite bloggers :) Do you recognize these two?

Tom and Lorenzo of Tom and Lorenzo. Love them!

All in all, it was a really great experience!

xoxo
NYC Recessionista

BOGO tops and sweaters at NY and Company

2012-02-09T10:00:00.000-05:00

For a limited time, tops and sweaters at NY and Company are buy one, get one 50% off.

My favorite pieces?

This sexy peplum top (still)

And this cheery striped sweater

(Images courtesy of NY and Company)

25 percent off at Gap

2012-02-09T09:30:00.000-05:00

Today and tomorrow, take 25% off at Gap (online only) with code GAPCOLOR at checkout.

Their new sandals are pretty darn chic --

(Source)

(Source)

'Words To Live By' Wednesdays

2012-02-08T14:00:00.000-05:00

Here's this week's edition of 'Words To Live By' Wednesdays.

Source: busybeingfabulous.typepad.com via NYC on Pinterest

Greetings from the IFB Conference

2012-02-08T09:00:00.000-05:00

All day today, I'll be at the IFB Conference in NYC -- meeting other fashion bloggers and hopefully learning a lot. I promise to take lots of notes and pictures and share the day with you in a recap!

xoxo
NYC Recessionista

30 percent off at Banana Republic

2012-02-07T15:30:00.000-05:00

Through Friday, take 30% off your purchase at Banana Republic (online only) with code BRSAVE30 at checkout.

PS -- shoes and accessories -- like this bracelet -- are 20% off with code BRPERFECT through Saturday.

(Image courtesy of Banana Republic)

20 percent off at J. Crew

2012-02-07T14:30:00.001-05:00

Through Friday, take 20% off knits and tees at J. Crew, online only, prices as marked.

(Source)

Cat eyes

2012-02-07T13:30:00.000-05:00

Completely and totally obsessed with these glasses.

Source: theglitterguide.tumblr.com via NYC on Pinterest

NYCR Picks from the February 2012 Magazines

2012-02-07T11:30:00.000-05:00

I am having a tough time believing it's already February! I feel like we just had Christmas and New Year's. Anyway, it's fun to get these issues as we get closer and closer to spring.

Let's dig right in, shall we?

From Lucky:

The color stones in these rings are equally beautiful stacked together as they are by themselves.

(Image courtesy of Julie Collection)

The texture of this coat reminds me a lot of one that my grandmother had ... love the green, too.

(Image courtesy of Lulu's)

I am a huge fan of everything art deco, so to me, these earrings are a piece of art.

Image courtesy of Samantha Wills)

A pale blue tunic like this is the perfect classic shirt to pair with more bold colors -- like say yellow, green, or red orange.

(Image courtesy of Ann Taylor)

These wedges are pretty sexy. Enough said.

(Image courtesy of J. Crew)

From People StyleWatch:

This would be the perfect bold necklace to pair with a simple black dress. Sigh ... another J. Crew necklace I'm obsessing over.

(Image courtesy of J. Crew)

I love the versatility of bags with both long and short straps -- this boxy Christian Siriano number is perfect.

(Image courtesy of Payless)

With a detailed neckline like this green dress has, who needs a necklace?

(Image courtesy of BCBG)

I would totally stack both of these leather and gold bracelets with all of my other bracelets -- they would pair really nicely with my bangles, stone cuffs, and charm bracelets.

(Image courtesy of Ariel Gordon Jewelry)

From Glamour:

Taking a simple skinny red belt like this and giving it a bow detail is pretty genius of White House Black Market.

(Image courtesy of WHBM)

This pretty pale green chalcedony necklace would be a perfect piece for spring. This has become one of my favorite stones.

(Image courtesy of Sonya Renee)

The feature on leather jackets to transform your body shape was pretty cool -- I would wear this H&M number with a very girly floral dress.

(Image courtesy of H&M)

Tuesday Tunes

2012-02-07T09:30:00.000-05:00

It's time for this week's edition of Tuesday Tunes.

This song is from several years ago, but it's still one of the most hauntingly beautiful songs I've ever heard. You may have heard it in the movie Closer.

I've had the opportunity to see Damien Rice live in concert and he has a really gorgeous voice.

Peter Pan collar

2012-02-06T12:30:00.000-05:00

Is it completely strange that I'm kind of in love with Peter Pan collars lately? This blouse is so darn cute and dainty.

(Image courtesy of Piperlime)

Here's the question of the day though: do we think blouses with these types of collars will look wrong on someone with a more voluptuous chest?

I have a feeling that a girly detail like that with a chest like mine will just look silly.

Sale at Ann Taylor and LOFT

2012-02-06T11:30:00.000-05:00

For a limited time at both Ann Taylor and LOFT, there are some interesting sales going on --

At Ann Taylor, take an extra 40% off sale items, both in stores and online, no code needed.

And over at LOFT, take 50% off select full-priced styles, both in stores and online with code SPRINGSALE at checkout.

Tick tock at Banana Republic

2012-02-06T11:05:00.000-05:00

From 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. today only, take 30% off your online purchase at Banana Republic with code BRTICKTOCK.

And after 5 p.m., that same code will get you 25% off until 11:59 p.m. ET tonight.

Things That Pinterest Me

2012-02-06T10:00:00.000-05:00

Here's this week's installment of:

(Pinterest logo courtesy of Pinterest, of course)

Lately, I am obsessed with all things blue and green for spring --

Like this Joan-esque dress ...

Source: us.dorothyperkins.com via NYC on Pinterest

These woven sandals are so darn chic ...

Source: anthropologie.com via NYC on Pinterest

I love the casual-yet-put-together feel of this cobalt blue shirtdress ...

Source: cwonder.com via NYC on Pinterest

The vintage-y feel of this necklace is great ...

Source: shop.elvafields.com via NYC on Pinterest

The subtle pattern on this blue silk blouse is really pretty ...

Source: jcrew.com via NYC on Pinterest

25 percent off at Old Navy

2012-02-06T09:30:00.000-05:00

Today's the last day you can take 25% off at Old Navy when you shop (online only) and enter code GAMEDAY at checkout. So if you weren't browsing online last night during the Super Bowl, you still have some time :)

This is such a darling sweater -- I love the green trim!

(Image courtesy of Old Navy)

20 percent off at Gap

2012-02-05T12:45:00.000-05:00

Today and tomorrow you can take 20% off at Gap (online only) with code GAPEVENT at checkout.

Colorblock heels

2012-02-04T13:30:00.000-05:00

Was flipping through the latest Anthropologie catalog and saw these colorblock heels ... so pretty.

Source: anthropologie.com via NYC on Pinterest

Bar III Jewelry at Macy's

2012-02-04T10:00:00.000-05:00

Noticed some cute new jewelry at Macy's and wanted to share it with y'all --

Source: macys.com via NYC on Pinterest

Weekend Wants

2012-02-03T16:30:00.000-05:00

Here are some things I'd love for this weekend ... a.k.a. my Weekend Wants.

1) To feel better ... without getting into too much detail, my husband and I are both feeling less than 100% at the moment. It stinks when you're both not feeling well ... but then I guess you really have to just take turns taking care of each other :)

And being sick with someone you love is better than being sick alone...

Source: eighteen25.blogspot.com via NYC on Pinterest

2) To see my family ... on Saturday we're heading upstate to visit my family and celebrate my grandfather's birthdays. I'm hoping we're both feeling well enough to make it, because I hate missing out on visits with my family.

3) To spend my J. Crew Spring Rewards Card ... there are so many new cute new arrivals there (I blogged about them earlier this week, too) that I am not sure what I want more.

(Source)

4) To make some chili ... On Sunday I plan to slow cook some yummy chili in time for the big game. Can't wait to use my slow cooker for the first time :)

Source: bettycrocker.com via Leslie on Pinterest

5) To do some cleaning ... with both of us sick, I'll just let you guess how our apartment looks at the moment :)

What are your plans for this weekend?

TOMS ballet flats

2012-02-03T14:00:00.000-05:00

How cute are these? The folks over at TOMS -- you know, the brand that gives a pair to a child in need for each pair sold -- are now making ballet flats.

(Image courtesy of Nordstrom)

You can preorder them now on Nordstrom.com ... they have a few different styles to choose from. Would be perfect for running errands around the city this spring!

Get a quarter-back this weekend

2012-02-03T13:30:00.000-05:00

This weekend only at Banana Republic (in honor of the Super Bowl), take 25% off full-priced items both online and in stores with code BRSUPER at checkout.

They're giving you a quarter-back ... get it?

Sigh.

Mad Hatter dress

2012-02-03T12:30:00.000-05:00

Loving this dress and all the other items in the new 'Mad Hatter' collection over at Shabby Apple.

(Image courtesy of Shabby Apple)

Feels so very proper, but the colors are really bold and fun.

More trenches

2012-02-03T11:00:00.000-05:00

Out of these two spring trenches, I can't decide which one I love more ...

Source: katespade.com via NYC on Pinterest

Source: cwonder.com via NYC on Pinterest

Which one is your favorite?

Everyone needs a TeamMate

2012-02-03T09:30:00.001-05:00

Back on Tuesday, I coincidentally shared a song from my friend Scott Simons for this week's edition of Tuesday Tunes. And okay so technically it's Friday, but now I've got some new music news to share :)

Scott has joined forces with friend Dani Buncher and formed a new band -- TeamMate. And they have a completely beautiful story that is worth a read.

(Image courtesy of TeamMate)

Their debut single 'Sequel' is on their FB page, so please go there and give it a listen. If you like what you hear then go ahead and 'like' their page, follow them on Twitter, and check out a future show in your hood.

I just gave it a listen, and, like everything else over the last 10 years, I think it's beautifully written and crazy catchy.

Cork wedges

2012-02-03T09:00:00.000-05:00

Oh my ... totally in love with these wedges. Pretty please, for spring?

Source: zappos.com via NYC on Pinterest

JCPenney's big announcement

2012-02-02T16:30:00.000-05:00

So, did you finally hear the big news from JCPenney yesterday?

(Image courtesy of JCP)

What did you think of it?

Heart flats

2012-02-02T15:30:00.000-05:00

How darling are these heart flats from DSW? Just in time for Valentine's Day ...

(Image courtesy of DSW)

Babydoll dress

2012-02-02T14:45:00.000-05:00

There's something very 90s and Lisa Loeb about this babydoll dress.

(Image courtesy of Asos)

Collared blouse

2012-02-02T13:30:00.000-05:00

I really love the dainty collar on this blouse. Reminds me of something Michelle Williams would wear.

(Image courtesy of Ruche)

Bib necklace

2012-02-02T12:30:00.000-05:00

This bib necklace is pretty dreamy ... I think I'd pair it with a simple t-shirt or sheath dress. I love the ombre-ish change in the different colors of the beads, too.

(Image courtesy of Banana Republic)

25 percent off at Gap today

2012-02-02T12:00:00.000-05:00

For six hours today only (12-6 p.m.), take 25% off your online purchase at Gap with code GAPHAPPY at checkout.

Yellow skirt

2012-02-02T11:00:00.000-05:00

Do you remember when Taylor Swift wore this yellow skirt back in the fall, and everyone was in a tizzy over it?

(Source)

I still think it's cute ... well, this slightly darker one from Forever 21 kinda reminds me of it.

(Source)

Green earrings

2012-02-02T10:00:00.000-05:00

Gorgeous.

Source: etsy.com via NYC on Pinterest

New arrivals at J. Crew

2012-02-01T15:30:00.000-05:00

I poked my head into a J. Crew store over the weekend and was completely enamored with the new arrivals ... here are some of my favorites:

Source: jcrew.com via NYC on Pinterest

'Words To Live By' Wednesdays

2012-02-01T14:00:00.000-05:00

Here's this week's edition of 'Words To Live By' Wednesdays.

Source: aandbstyle.com via NYC on Pinterest

Drop earrings

2012-02-01T11:45:00.000-05:00

These drop earrings from TopShop are pretty chic --

Source: us.topshop.com via NYC on Pinterest

Dreamlights

2012-02-01T10:30:00.000-05:00

I think I might have to have several of these for my bedroom. How totally romantic and whimsical are they?

(Source)

Peplum dress

2012-02-01T09:45:00.000-05:00

I think the next LBD I buy will have a peplum like this one ...

(Image courtesy of Zara)

What I wear to sleep

2012-01-31T15:30:00.000-05:00

Pajamas are a very personal decision ... there are some of us who sleep in head-to-toe flannel, and others who sleep in absolutely nothing :) I like to think I'm somewhere in the middle.

Here are some of my favorite things to wear to bed --

I've found that Madewell's t-shirts are the most comfy ... and the more you wash them, the softer they get.

(Image courtesy of Madewell)

Gap boxer shorts for women are so incredibly soft and comfortable ... I sleep in them practically year-round.

(Image courtesy of Gap)

Free shipping at Kendra Scott

2012-01-31T15:00:00.000-05:00

Until Valentine's Day (hint, hint for all you gift-givers out there), Kendra Scott is offering free ground shipping in the U.S.

Source: kendrascott.com via NYC on Pinterest

Dots

2012-01-31T13:30:00.000-05:00

These dotted flats are so cute!

Source: madewell.com via NYC on Pinterest

Summer at Kellerman's

2012-01-31T11:30:00.000-05:00

This striped button-down totally reminds me of Dirty Dancing ... wouldn't it be perfect for a summer at Kellerman's Resort? I'd pair it with some navy.

(Image courtesy of Anthropologie)

Tuesday Tunes

2012-01-31T09:30:00.000-05:00

It's time for this week's edition of Tuesday Tunes.

Today I wanted to share a cool live video from one of my favorite singer-songwriters (and a friend) ... Scott Simons. I've known Scott for over 10 years now -- he was the lead singer of a band I followed pretty closely in college when I used to run a coffeehouse entertainment program on campus.

He's a crazy talented songwriter and musician :) definitely check out his music ... oh and you must check out his cover of Rihanna's Umbrella.

Nautical meets french

2012-01-30T13:00:00.000-05:00

I think I need this dress on account of my pixie haircut. Hello, Jean Seberg.

Source: modcloth.com via NYC on Pinterest

70s style sandal

2012-01-30T12:00:00.000-05:00

I love the gold detailing and the buckle on this sandal ... has a little bit of a 70s feel to it. Seems like they'd be really comfortable, too.

(Source)

Tucker for Target

2012-01-30T11:30:00.000-05:00

Almost two years later, this dress from the Tucker for Target line is still one of my favorite purchases ... the fit is great, it washes well, and I get lots of compliments on it.

And the navajo-ish pattern is still in style.

Source: google.com via NYC on Pinterest

Things That Pinterest Me

2012-01-30T10:00:00.000-05:00

Here's this week's installment of:

(Pinterest logo courtesy of Pinterest, of course)

This week I am all about vintage dresses ...

Source: debutanteclothing.com via NYC on Pinterest

Source: piccsy.com via NYC on Pinterest

Source: metmuseum.org via NYC on Pinterest

Source: elizamagazine.com via NYC on Pinterest

Source: etsy.com via NYC on Pinterest

25 percent off at Banana Republic

2012-01-30T09:30:00.000-05:00

Today and tomorrow, take 25% off your entire purchase at Banana Republic when you shop (online only) and enter code BRBOOST at checkout.

(Source)

Spring shoes at Urban Outfitters

2012-01-29T14:00:00.000-05:00

Never thought I'd see the day where pastel-colored shoes (in anything but children's sizes) could look so cute and chic --

Source: urbanoutfitters.com via NYC on Pinterest

Sunny earrings

2012-01-29T12:00:00.000-05:00

With spring on the way soon (fingers crossed), I can't think of anything more cheerful than these sunny yellow earrings from Kendra Scott --

Source: kendrascott.com via NYC on Pinterest

My Papa

2012-01-29T10:30:00.000-05:00

Well, I've already told you about my Beepa ... and now it's Papa's turn. My Papa is 95 years young today! Isn't it cool that their birthdays are only two days apart?!

He looks all spiffy here at our wedding in his orange tie :) Happy Birthday, Papa!

(Image courtesy of Geoff Tischman Photography)

Sales at LOFT and Ann Taylor

2012-01-28T10:00:00.000-05:00

For a limited time, take 30% off full-priced items at LOFT (both in stores and online) with code SAVENOW at checkout.

(Source)

And over at Ann Taylor, take an extra 40% off sale items both in stores and online, no code needed.

(Source)

Weekend Wants

2012-01-27T22:30:00.000-05:00

Here are some things I'd love for this weekend ... a.k.a. my Weekend Wants.

1) To [finally] mail out some prizes ... Okay, so as of right now, I have heard from 4 out of the 5 winners from my Giveaways from my Jewelry Box. After picking new winners earlier this week for the Forever 21 and Old Navy prizes, I am still waiting to hear from Adventures of Modern Mom. Please contact me ASAP!

Source: endemicworld.com via Erin on Pinterest

2) To see my friends ... On Saturday I'm heading up to Connecticut for the baby shower of a good friend. Can't wait to see her and her hubby, and shower the parents-to-be with gifts :)

And one of my favorite things to do after a baby shower (if they want the help of course) is to help the parents carry the gifts back, sort through them, remove tags of baby clothes and linens that need to be washed, help them load the dishwasher with the baby bottles, etc. and just generally help them organize things in the nursery. It must be so overwhelming to get home (completely exhausted) from your shower and have to put everything away.

This is a darling nursery by the way ...

Source: transparentvignettes.tumblr.com via Caitlin on Pinterest

3) To test out my new nail polishes ... This one is already sort of done. Refinery 29 was advertising an interesting promo a couple of weeks ago, where Art of Beauty was offering two free Zoya nail polishes (just pay the shipping).

I went with this color called Petra and just painted my nails with it. It's darker than I thought it would be (maybe I did the coats too thick?), but it provides nice coverage.

(Image courtesy of NYC Recessionista)

4) Do some pretend shopping ... ModCloth has some really cute new dresses. Like this one.

(Image courtesy of ModCloth)

5) To do some grocery shopping ... Our refrigerator and freezer are looking kind of sad at the moment. They're pretty much empty. I haven't cooked dinner all week, which is very unlike me! And I'd love to be able to bring in lunch more often. Would actually love to be able to pack healthy lunches for both myself and my hubby.

What are your plans for this weekend?

Lace sweater

2012-01-27T13:45:00.000-05:00

I love the dainty lace trim on this sweater ... it's so very french gamine. I think I could rock this with my new haircut & color.

Source: anthropologie.com via NYC on Pinterest

No more madness

2012-01-27T13:30:00.000-05:00

Have you been following the new JCPenney commercials lately? They're pretty funny.

They're hinting at a major announcement on February 1st and I am wondering what it is. My guess is that it's some sort of lowest price promise ... that they'll never have sales because everything will always be on sale in the first place.

What do you think?

Printed sheath dress

2012-01-27T12:30:00.000-05:00

I love the print of this dress ... it's borderline ikat.

(Image courtesy of Gap)

My Beepa

2012-01-27T11:00:00.000-05:00

There's a very special man in my life named "Beepa." Okay so that's not really his name, but that's what we've been calling him since we were little, instead of Grandpa.

Well, he's 89 years young today ... Happy Birthday, Beepa!

(Image courtesy of Geoff Tischman Photography)

It's baaaaack

2012-01-27T10:00:00.000-05:00

The J. Crew Bubble Necklace in turquoise is back ... yes, you read that right.

(Source)

Striped skirt

2012-01-27T09:30:00.000-05:00

Stripes and bold colors are apparently two of the biggest trends for spring ... and you can find both in this pencil skirt.

(Image courtesy of Forever 21)

Peplum blouse

2012-01-26T14:00:00.000-05:00

I am sooo in love with this peplum blouse from H&M ... I think I might have to go snag it :) I could totally see wearing it with my skinny black pants and my black ankle boots.

(Image courtesy of H&M)

Extra 30 percent off sale at Gap

2012-01-26T13:00:00.000-05:00

Through Friday, take an extra 30% off sale items at the Gap (both in stores and online) with code GAPFUN at checkout.

The trench

2012-01-26T12:30:00.000-05:00

Gosh, I am not sure if there is anything more classic than a proper trench. And London Fog is pretty much the original.

(Image courtesy of Nordstrom)

IFB Conference

2012-01-26T11:45:00.000-05:00

Is anyone else going to the IFB Conference in NYC on February 8th? It is my first time going, and I am really excited about it :) Looking forward to meeting lots of fellow bloggers.

(Image courtesy of IFB)

Mailbag

2012-01-26T10:30:00.000-05:00

Love this new bag from Madewell ... okay so it's still winter, but this is really the perfect summer handbag.

Source: madewell.com via NYC on Pinterest

I see you

2012-01-25T15:00:00.000-05:00

I love this very cheeky iPhone case ... too cute.

(Image courtesy of Kate Spade)

'Words To Live By' Wednesdays

2012-01-25T14:00:00.000-05:00

Here's this week's edition of 'Words To Live By' Wednesdays.

Source: prettystuff.tumblr.com via NYC on Pinterest

Red mini skirt

2012-01-25T13:00:00.000-05:00

Love the tomato-y red shade of this skirt from Gap. Paired with navy, I think it'd be a great pop of color for spring.

(Image courtesy of Gap)

No way

2012-01-25T11:45:00.000-05:00

I'm sorry, but no ... she is not.

Oscar Nominee Rooney Mara: The New Audrey Hepburn? (New York Magazine)

New jewelry at Ann Taylor and LOFT

2012-01-25T11:30:00.000-05:00

Have you been in an Ann Taylor and/or LOFT store lately? Their early spring jewelry items are to die for ... they've all got a very 1970s, structural but natural, stones mixed with metals and wood feel to them. LOVE!

Source: loft.com via NYC on Pinterest

Source: anntaylor.com via NYC on Pinterest

Source: loft.com via NYC on Pinterest

Source: anntaylor.com via NYC on Pinterest

Source: loft.com via NYC on Pinterest

Source: anntaylor.com via NYC on Pinterest

Source: loft.com via NYC on Pinterest

Source: anntaylor.com via NYC on Pinterest

Source: loft.com via NYC on Pinterest

PS -- a lot of these are sold out online already, so head to stores soon to find them before they're gone!

In case of emergency

2012-01-25T10:30:00.000-05:00

Umm ... I think I might need to have this cosmetic bag.

(Image courtesy of the MCA Store)