splendor & folly

While I knew that ‘military’ was a strong spring trend, the whole cargo-pants thing just kind of came on my radar recently. And now of course, I’m seeing them everywhere! At first I really hated the look, but after seeing the Victoria Beckham version (sans the pockets), it kind of grew on me. Not every trend will work for you, its better to remain true to your own style than go out and copy cat someone else’s. That being said, sometimes getting out of your comfort zone will be the only way to find out what suits you best!  

Cheryl Cole

Victoria Beckham

And here is my version of how I would style cargo pants for day and night…on a budget:

Want one easy tip to be on-trend this spring?

Loose and Oversized Tops!

Check out these celebrities for some inspiration:

Kristin Cavallari likes to rock this look, I actually really like her style

The key is too look casual and slouchy, but still put together. Add simple accessories, like Vanessa’s hat, Hillary’s gold earrings, or Kristin’s bright scarf.

Where to get it:

More Patterson J. Kincaid…

Photos via FabSugar and Hills Freak

Unfortunately, I no longer get Bravo, so I’m not able to watch any of their fabulous programming, such as the Rachel Zoe Project. But I did come across her assistant Brad in this bright red suit. Not many men could pull this bold look off, but I think he is adorable!!!

Photo via Stockholm Street Style

As much as I hate to admit it, my little darling puppy has now ruined two pairs of shoes. The first were an ooold tan pair from Payless and now a wine-colored pair from Target. I decided to hit up Target to see if I could find some replacements (who doesn’t love an excuse for shoe shopping).

I purchased two pairs - a black wedge peep toe and a nude pump. I’m really happy with both, I will just have to keep them FAR away from you know who!

I think this wedge looks a little cuter in person, but really I bought it because it is practical. I know that for work, I tend to throw on comfortable shoes so I knew these would get a lot of use. But I think they’ll look cute with jeans too, for a little bit of height.

This pump is sold out online, so I was lucky to find my size at the store! I think it’s so cute!!

I also spotted these sandals in the store. They come in teal, yellow, purple, brown and black. The only size they had left was size 5. That was probably a good thing because I wanted a pair in every color!

You know how everyone is obsessed with the sound of their own name? Well, I also realized I’m obsessed with items of clothing named after me! I came across this Black Halo ‘Leah’ tiered dress while perusing Chloe’s picks and was like ‘Wow! It’s named after me, it’s meant to be, I should totally buy it!’

Then I actually clicked the link and realized that its also $375 so I will most definitely NOT be purchasing. But it did lead me to search for other items with my namesake…check out these awesome finds and then search for your own!!!

A couple more cute dresses by Joie and Grey Ant:

A floral romper by Yumi Kim:

This gorgeous bag by Julie K:

And even a denim vest by True Religion:

If you are thinking about adding to your shoe collection, nude pairs are a no-brainer. They go with absolutely everything! Here are my nude picks for every occasion:

FOR WORK

 FOR EVENING

FOR AROUND TOWN

FOR BEING AWESOME

And BONUS: If you like one of the pairs from DSW, use code SPRING4 for $10 off orders of $49 or more; $15 off orders of $74 or more and $20 off orders of $99 or more!

I’m really loving the wedges…eeek!

This week’s episode of How I Met Your Mother (best show ever) featured my other favorite thing, a baby animal! I think piggies may have just made my Top 5 Baby Animals List.

And believe it or not, I like the show for other reasons besides the fact that it is hilarious and sometimes features baby animals. I also really love the wardrobe for the two main female characters, Lily and Robin. They always have on the cutest outfits! Carrie Underwood who guest-starred last night was also looking cute in her red dress (above). Here is another example of an outfit from last night’s episode:

I’m loving her patterned top with cardigan, skinnies and boots (not shown). I can’t find who makes the top, but I did find this websitewhich details some of the clothing that they wear. It seems to be mostly more expensive labels such as Nanette Lepore, Marc Jacobs and Diane Von Furstenberg, but occasionally you will find them in Anthropologie, J Crew and Urban Outfitters. But you don’t have to have the exact pieces to replicate the feel of the outfit. I love getting inspiration from everywhere!

**UPDATE – The top is by Joie and can be purchased here. (via)**

PS Does anyone else even watch this show or I am alone on this one??

I’m not sure if the American Idol contestants have a stylist or they dress themselves, but I have found myself really drawn to Lacey Brown’s style. In the latest episode she was doing the ‘mixing patterns’ trend with floral patterned dress topped with a bold striped cardigan. I’m not a fan of the gold belt, but overall, I think its a cute look. I hope she stays on for a while so I can keep tracking her style!

image from americanidol.com

Happy Weekend! Sometimes its almost harder for me to put together stylish casual looks that outfits for work or dressier occasions. The key is to look good without looking like you tried or even care. I thought I would put together some looks that are easy to just grab and go. Here is my first one, let me know what you think!!

This = An oversized tee

&

That = Black skinny jeans

Even though the temp here is in the teens today (UGH!) all I can seem to think about is spring, summer, bikinis and being poolside! So naturally I want to shop for those kinds of outfits. But if I truly want to save some money, I should still be in winter mode.

Coat and boot prices are slashed despite the fact it is definitey STILL winter and you will still be able to get decent wear out of items this season. Not to mention you will have some relatively new-to-you items to pull out or your closet next time winter comes rolling in.

Where to shop:

Check out Victoria’s Secret, Alloy, Express, New York & Company and Nordstrom for some great deals on coats.

For boots, check out Aldo, Piperlime, DSW and Steve Madden.

My picks:

This amazing looking coat from NY&C for only $19.99?? (Note: large fur thing is removeable and it also comes in black)

More coat picks – all under $100!!

And my picks for boots – all under $50!!!

Word to the wise – sizes will be limited but don’t get discouraged, a great deal is out there for you!!