splendor & folly

Military still seems to be a trend for fall and you can find an array of military-style jackets to round out your wardrobe.

I recently picked up this twill jacket at Wet Seal (I know, I was surprised too). You can click the picture for the online link to purchase, but when I bought it, they were having an in-store promotion of $10 off all jackets, making this find only $25!

Here are some other options if you want to fall in line with this trend:

More American Eagle…

It is so easy to layer in the colder months – we throw on jackets, coats, hats, scarves, anything just to stay warm! We get so used to layering for warmth that layering for style becomes difficult when the temperature rises. I love layered looks and I don’t think they should be abanonded in spring and summer. Here are 5 ways to layer and still keep your cool:

1. Chambray Shirts – throw these on as a jacket unbuttoned over a tank, tee or dress.

2. Lightweight Military Style Jackets – For Spring nights that do get a little chilly, don’t be left without this stylish top layer

3. Lightweight Cardigans and Vests – Both of these items are so incredibly versatile. Basically you can throw on top of everything!

4. Summer Scarves – These are meant for style, not warmth. But if you happen to find yourself in a building with the AC blasting, you could also use them as a wrap.

5. Statement Necklaces – These can turn a plain tee shirt into an awesome outfit, just like that!

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

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!

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

One of these sheer lace tees is $20 and the other is $225. Which is which??? Click to find out.

Check out my Current Cravings feature on the sidebar. I’ve added a few new picks from ASOS and elsewhere. I’m loving the combo of pinky peach and navy!

(photos via MyGallery, John P.C. and d.aria)

So lately, even though I haven’t been adding much to my wardrobe, I’m beginning to think I would like to switch gears.  I want to move more toward quality, investment pieces rather than cheapy throw-a-way items that start to unravel after the first wash (yes, I’m talking to you Forever 21). The only problem with this is my budget. Its really hard to justify spending hard earned dollars on clothes when there is always something more ‘practical’ to spend them on.

Thus I feel like I am having a Britney Spears moment. When it comes to shopping: “I’m not a girl, not yet a woman” (Please sing this in your head for the full effect). I’m kind of over Forever 21 and Charlotte Russe but can’t yet afford the offerings of Nordstrom, Shop Bop, and other higher-end stores and boutiques. I’m not saying I’m above shopping at certain stores now, I’m just going to try to buy only things I truly love. And if I’m buying less, I should be focusing more on quality.

Where do you like to shop? High-end? Low-end? Thrift? I’m ready to take suggestions and re-think my shopping just in time for spring!

 And with that, I’ll leave you with some gorgeous spring dresses on my ‘maybe someday’ list. They are by Shoshanna who I had never even heard of before today (see? I have a lot to learn!)

1. How I Met Your Mother – This is without a doubt my favorite TV show. Although it has been on for five seasons, I just joined the Monday night party this year. If you haven’t tuned in I highly recommend netflixing it from the beginning.
2. Black Yoga Pants – Although I use them more for lounging on the couch than yoga poses, these are something I definitely could not live without. Mine are by Marika which retail for $40 on their website, but I scored them at TJ Maxx for half of that.
3. Apples and Cinnamon Oatmeal – I have been in a major oatmeal phase this year. I just grab a pack on my way out the door and whip up some deliciousness at work, which saves time and I still get in a hearty breakfast to hold off hunger pains until lunchtime.
4. Dolce & Gabbana The One – I first smelled this in a magazine and fell in love. According to the description, it is a warm, oriental floral with modern sensuality.
 

 


5. Post Secret - This website has been around for a while, but new secrets posted each Sunday make the beginning of the work week more tolerable.
6. Ruffles - This trend is everywhere you look, but you won’t find me complaining! I think ruffles can add just enough of that extra something special to everything from skirts to sweaters.
7. Menage a Trois wine – Thanks to Nichole for introducing me to this wine! It’s about 9 bucks and can be found at most grocery stores. It gets its name from being a blend of three types of grapes, Zinfandel, Cabernet and Merlot. Its fun to try new wines, but when I need a sure bet, menage a trois has never let me down!
8. The Library – Nothing beats free during a recession, or ever for that matter.
9. Gorjana necklace- When it comes to jewelry, my preference is understated. This necklace is the perfect subtle addition to most outfits (mine is silver). Other Gorjana pieces can be found at Revolve Clothing.