New J.Crew Cardi - Stained Glass

I still had a few things to return to the store yesterday, so I stopped in to check out some of the new items that arrived, as well.   Part of me was relieved (the I've-put-way-too-much-on-my-credit-card-this-season part of me) to see that there wasn't anything super spectacular on the floor.  (Certainly some good deals on cords for $29 + 20% off if you need them, but I'm set on cords)

As far as the new stuff I actually remember seeing and noticing....

Dotty Short - $58

Love these, but don't really need them.  Plus, thinking about putting on shorts right now makes me want to puke.

Chambray Popover - $78

These didn't look cute hanging in the store .... I didn't even look at them. However, I might have looked closer had I seen this one in the store:

Love this "Vintage Latticework" pattern, at least online!

Skirt - $39 (NOT the one pictured here, but close)

I don't see it online, but there was a denim-looking very thin skirt in this shape with an elastic waistband hanging in the front of the store.  Didn't try it on, but might have been worth it for the price.  Anyone else know what I'm talking about here?

Skimmer Pant - $69.50

Basically the new Cafe Capri, I guess?  I really liked these... even in this slate color.  Plus, aren't the cafe's usually $79?  These will probably eventually be on promo for $49 and I'll try them on!  Still wish the inseam was more "cropped" on me.... 26" doesn't cut it when my full-length jeans are 29"!!  Maybe I'll try to petite?!

OK, and finally for something I actually purchased...

Stained Glass Cardigan - $88

Really like the colors in this, esp the light pink and gray, and it will look great with my other fave color.... navy!

Excuse the ugly nude-colored cami underneath!  I do think I'll wear them with the navy cafe capris, though!  Loving navy right now!

 And, while we're on the topic of this pattern, me lovey this too...

Buttoned up - which I never do .... plus this is an XS and I think a Small would be better for full-frontal-closure!

The back.  It says this has bracelet sleeves, but they were bascially long-sleeves on me and I have long arms!  FYI.

Something about this pattern in the swimwear looks amazing to me .... too bad I'm long-waisted, this would never work on me!

That's it for me for now .... but I do have a post coming up about 3 pairs of boots I just snagged in a shoe clearance room at Von Maur.... I'm so excited!  Happy New Year!

J.Crew Sale Stuff

I totally bit when the J.Crew.com sale items were an extra 25% (I think) off and they were offering free shipping over $150 a little over a week ago.  There were some items I had been waiting for... Frances cami and Luxe tux tissue tee... and others that were a nice find ... Sherpa puffer coat and the Ultra-knit weekend pant.

I already knew I loved this top, and I really wanted a cami in the Cinnamon Spice color (I tried this color in the Kelsey shown below, but felt too much like a lion  and didn't like the front buttons), so this was a no-brainer.  I paid full-price for the dark rose colored one I already have and felt it was well worth it, so I was super pumped to get this puppy for $69 + 25% off.   I suggest your regular shirt size ... I got a 2... the 0 MIGHT have fit, but there was no need as this shirt isn't tent-like as so many recent camis have been!

Obviously I didn't steam this bad boy - sorry!  Anyway, can't wait to pair this with my Perfect pencil skirt in Cinnamon Stick - a surprising and delightful color combo. 

Frances in the Autumn Sun color - didn't do anything for me and almost see-though .... this went back

Cinnamon Spice color in the Kelsey cami.... I felt like a lion with all the ruffles around my neck... this went back as well.  However, love this color combo!

I became a little obsessed with this top online and couldn't wait to try it.  I love shirts with the ruffles in front because they look so great with cardigans!

Shown with off-white cardi from last year which, as with all my other JC cardis, has like 5 little holes in it.... making a "great deal" not so great when you have to constantly have it mended. Annoying.

For $24 + 25% off, I think this tee is a great deal and I love it!  I got a size Small, could have done a XS, but why?  FYI, I always but my tees a size larger than most people so as to avoid the dreaded muffin tops (as much as possible!)

My other super-amazing and exciting finds I didn't take photos in.... but they're awesome just the same!

First, how can you go wrong with a Sherpa puffer coat for $75?  I'm kind of a coat snob and this one passes the test.  Real down - check.  Hood - check.  Warm lining - check.  Long enough to keep you warm - check.  I have a long Michael Kors down puffer from last year, but this coat might be used more just for the simple fact that it's easier to move around in and less constrictive.  This little jewel will definitely be making the annual trip to New York with us this year!  I ended up getting a Small (kind-of a size-up I guess) and I can't imagine an XS would fit very well over anything other than a tee shirt, so I am happy with the size.  I love love love this cobalt color so several reasons: won't show dirt easily, stands out and isn't boring, and it's the school color of where I went to school (U. of Kentucky)... so I'm very happy with it!

Last but not least, I ordered the Ultra-knit weekend pant.... and as I sit in them now, I can tell you they were a great purchase.  I love that the elastic on the bottom lets me tuck them easily into boots.  I got a size small because they weren't on backorder like the XS.  The Small is fine, but the XS probably would have been better.  However, once washed and dried, I think they'll be great!  Love these too!

Hope everyone had a great holiday!  I got a LOFT and J.Crew gift card from the hubby, so I can't wait to make more fun purchases here soon!

Special Gift From *J.Crew* - Merry Christmas!

I contemplated not getting the mail today due to the 36 degrees and rain (awesome winter weather mix), though it was definitely worth the venture down the driveway to the mailbox this afternoon.

There was a box!  Yea!  A present!  I hadn't ordered anything recently, so I knew it just had to be a present! (OK - that's sort of a lie .... I have ordered A LOT of things recently, but all were being shipped UPS, so I knew that they wouldn't be in the mailbox!  Anyway...)

The return address was J.Crew!  Woo Hoo!

I figured from the size of the box it would probably be stationary, since I know some cardholders received that last year.  However, the gift turned out to be much nicer and more useful!  And, as a bonus, PINK!

Turns out, inside the box was a nicely presented calendar/ planner for 2010.  Not only does it have monthly and weekly calendars, but also a ton of other useful info.... including spaces for addresses, conversion charts, holidays, maps, etc... 

Displayed in the mailing box with a note from Mickey

Pretty inside front and back cover paper

I looked for this puppy online, but the closest thing I could find was the Personal Pocket Calendar (shown here), which appears to be smaller, but just as cute.

What a super exciting surprise before Christmas!  And this is the second one this year... a few months ago I received a pair of gorgeous earrings! 

I must be spending more money with the company than I thought, but that's not their fault, so "Thank you J. Crew!"  I can't wait to start using my new calendar!

Did anyone else recieve a gift?  Are you a cardholder?

Two *Really* Great Online Shopping Sites - Just In Time For Christmas!

I've been a little slow on getting things posted recently ... I can't imagine why... haha - Christmas kicks my butt every year!

Anyway, in all the craziness, I just HAD to mention two of my absolute FAVORITE websites to shop these days.  Of course, J.Crew is right up there (BTW - ordered my fave Frances Cami in Cinnamon Spice this morning on sale for $69 - yummy!) 

but these sites are special for unique reasons.

1.) 8ty8beauty.com

I discovered this website when I was looking for waxing supplies (I do my own legs - yes it hurts, but totally worth it) and have continued to use it for several years now.  Not only do they offered a lot of salon-supply-type products, but they also have OPI nailpolish and treatments (and other great brands such as Orly, China Glaze, etc...) for about HALF (yeah, I said half) of what you will pay at a department store or salon.  One drawback is that they calculate shipping after packing your order, so they can't tell you exactly what shipping is going to be when you check out, but mine has always been reasonable and about $10 or less.  Speaking of shipping, they use USPS Priority Mail, which is great because it's cheap, fast, and delivers on Saturday!

2.) RunningWarehouse.com

Oh boy, this is my favorite right now!  Get this people, FREE Shipping and FREE Returns!!  No minimums, codes, or any other blah blah blah.... and 2 Day UPS Shipping!  Just plain ole' awesomeness!!  This site has everything running/ workout related you could want!  Fabulous!  Shoes, pants, tops, jackets, accessories and more!  Most things are discounted very nicely, plus if you are part of a running group/club/team, see if you qualify for a team discount!  I have purchased almost my entire running waredrobe on this site, including  a new pair of Brooks running shoes in a 2A (hard to find!) that were only $60!  And, when I had to return something, there was no problem and I quickly received a refund. Love love love this site!  Even if you aren't a runner .... this site might inspire you to become one!

Chambray Shirts: How are we wearing them?

Reading a recent post on Gigi's blog about the J.Crew Selvege Chambray Shirt reminded me of another shirt that I was SO excited about when I purchased it, but rarely makes it out of my closet.  Why?  Because I can't freakin' figure out how to wear it!  It's the J. Crew Contrast Stitch Perfect Shirt (I consider this shirt to be chambray... I think it is ... anyway...)

I loved this shirt in the Summer because I could pair it with white cafe capris, jeans, or shorts ... I think it looks great with white.  However, considering the current season, I'm more into jeans... and I just can't seem to make myself love this shirt with jeans.

So... how are you wearing your Contrast Stitch Perfect Shirt (or other chambray shirt?)  Please share!  I'd really love to get more use our of this bad boy!!  Post your favorite way to wear your chambray in the comments section!

Outfits of the Day - Mostly J. Crew

I need to catch-up on posting, so here are a few quick outfits!

I just love this top.  From the exposed zipper in the back to the patter... love love love.  AND, I figured I would go ahead and wear it in the Fall with jeans because ... well, everything goes with jeans! (right Gigi?! I think you mentioned this in a post a while back!)  I always have to put a fitted cami under this top though, because when I raise my arms or bend over, all is exposed!

Love the Copelle Paisley paired with these Penelope's from a couple years back!  I also tried the rolled jean bottom look for the night with my straight leg Citizens jeans  ... not sure I pulled it off, but whatev...

Go-To Cafe Capris paired with ATL Chiffon Rose Tee and JC Always Cardigan in Black (I love how this cardigan could be a PJ cover-up or you could wear it over a dress... love it!)

I didn't take a picture of this outfit, but I recently wore the Ocelot Cardigan with the Victoria Ruffle Tissue Cami together and it looked FAB!! 

BLACK FRIDAY Discovery Toys - Free Shipping Offer!

So, I rarely plug my home business in blogland, but I have to pass on an incredibly simple way to get a jumpstart on (or even finish up!) your Holiday shopping needs for all the little ones in your life! 

As a Discovery Toys Consultant and mom, I quickly realized why these products have been around for over 25 years ... and why parents and grandparents keep coming back year after year!

These products make excellent gifts that both parents and children will be happy to receive! Why??  Durable, educational, fun, and unique toys and products for your children and family ... with a 100% Lifetime Guarantee!  (seriously!)

Even better, most toys do not require batteries, grow with your children, and support and enhance their learning as they grow!  Our products are used in the home, but also preschools, elementary schools, church nurserys, hospitals, waiting rooms, and more!

Please check out my personal website:

 www.discoverytoyslouisville.com

to view our products and shop online!

**As a special deal for blog readers, I will waive shipping on orders between $50 and $150 from now until Monday, Nov 30th 2009.   Please contact me so I can place your order for you if you'd like free shipping!***

Wanna get it done fast??  Check out the Holiday Collections - bundles of toys at a 10-15% discount!  EASY!

Like everything you see?  Ask me about becoming a consultant yourself and start earning extra income for your family (or just your own shopping addiciton! ;)

Play with your children... it's the best investment you can make!

Ann Taylor and LOFT deals!!

Oh how I loveth Ann Taylor and the LOFT Friends and Family time of the year!  And, oh how I showed them my love by buying WAY too much stuff!  Here are the best pieces:

Ann Taylor, Wool Jersey Ruffle Neck Dress: $150 (30% off for F&F)

 

I love this dress because of the long sleeves since I always hate having to check my coat right at the door with a sleeveless dress on!  Also, it's form-fitting without being too clingy (aka: I can wear tights under it without TOO much of the dreaded tummy-roll showing)  Love love love the ruffle neckline and plan on wearing tights with this due to the short length.

 

 

 

Ann Taylor, Tiered Grossgrain and Chiffon Dress: $240 (on sale for $149 then 40% off that)

This is a super-sexy and very fun dress!  I cannot wait to wear this to my hubby's firms' Christmas party!  There are optional spaghetti straps, but I don't plan on using them.  This baby is sold out online.

Before the Friends and Family deals, I hit up the LOFT for their Buy1 Get 1 50% off sweater deal ..... plus I used a 20% coupon.... sweet!

                                

LOFT, Toggle Sweater Coat: $108 (Buy 1 Get 1 50% off, plus 20% off purchase!) - This sweater coat is so warm a cozy.  It's a bit more flattering than I expected considering the thickness of the sweater!  It covers the butt, too!  Love it!

LOFT, Rosette Cardigan: $89 - I honestly could not choose a color on this one.  I ended up going with this color because it was the color I originally saw in the look-book and fell in love with.  I think this will look great with black pants, and of course jeans!  I would NOT have paid full price for this,  but I love it for the price I got it at!

LOFT, Soft Red Sweater: $49

LOFT, Chunk Ribbed Sweater: $59 - First, I couldn't decide on a color in this cardi, then I ended up returning it.  I just couldn't get it to consitantly look flattering in the hip and waist area... end for about $25.... it was also a little tight in the rib cage area, even if I sized up.

PS: The jeans I have on in all these pics (b/c I was too lazy to change them!) are my new Paige Premium Denim Skinny Jeans in a light destruction wash.... had to give 'em a shout-out .... they are my new staple!

HAPPY THANKSGIVING EVERYONE!

J.Crew Reindeer Tee, Frances, and F21 Finds!!

Do I need another embellished tee? Are you kidding me? NO! But, when I saw this lovely lady online, I had to go ahead and order it .... mostly because I'm freakin' craving some Christmas right now, and also because I thought the color was nice and the beading was pretty striking.

As you can see from the photos below, I have several colors of cardigans that will compliment it nicely, plus the reindeer face doesn't get completely covered up! LOVE this shirt!!

Details: I got a size Small, my regular size (for JC tees!) The shirt fabric is substantial enough to hold the beading. I ordered this with free shipping when it was 20% off, so I'm pretty OK with paying $38.... regular price of $48 was a little steep for me! I LOVE that this shirt isn't black, white, or gray like ALL my other holiday tees!

As I mentioned in a previous post, my Silk Frances Cami in Deep Rose is probably my favorite piece from JC in recent roll-outs. I really really wanted the Autumn Sun (yellow) color and when it went on sale (or promo, or whatever the crap it was .... since it's now back to FP!?) I bit. I still love it, but not as much as I love it in the Deep Rose color! I'm not sure what I'm going to ultimately do about this top. I love it, but do I love it enough to keep it when my CC bill is so ugly?? Feel free to chime in.

(FYI - I took this picture without steaming the cami first... it would look better steamed, I'm sure!)

With F21 silky shorts - see below

I rarely make it into Forever 21 by myself (aka: without a little helper in a stroller) so I took advantage of my last trip by trying lots of stuff on and having a little fun. Above are some navy satin shorts I picked up. I plan on wearing them with tights (duh) but I was too lazy to put them on for just a picture. I ended up sizing up to a medium so that they were long enough to cover what I assume shorts are meant to cover ;)

Can you say: perfect holiday tank top? Just enough sparkle without going overboard. I sized up to a Medium in this tank since it's white. I would have gone with a small in any other darker color. (and they had this tank in several colors)

This tank has a lot more bling-factor, plus it is a lacy racer-back. I will be wearing a cardi over this I'm sure, but something about the gold and black really made me fall in love with this tank. This is a size small, they were out of the medium.

I already own this exact dress in black from a few years back and end up grabbing it as a go-to fun dress at least once or twice a year (especially if we're going to Vegas) because it's just so cute and easy to wear. When I saw it in this red/berry color, I didn't think twice about grabbing it up! I went with the small because I will ALWAYS wear tights or leggings under a dress this short! Love it!

*I'd like to give a little shout-out to my local F21 for having great employees who are knowledgeable and helpful. There was a gentleman working the front of the store the day I visited who was more than happy to help find sizes, colors, and give advice. At a store like F21, who caters to younger folks I'm afraid, it's nice to be treated like a valued customer. From what I've heard, sometimes the seasoned employees at the JC Collection Store can't even muster up a smile. Way to go, F21!

Ten Of My Favorite Things: Beauty Edition

In this time of giving thanks (Thanksgiving of course!) I thought I would share with you the 10 beauty products I am most thankful for discovering! Enjoy!

10. OPI Rapiddry Top Coat: Drys your nail polish in 5 minutes... and when you have a two-year-old to wrangle, sometimes 5-minutes is all you've got!

9. Gigi Wax Warmer and Honee Wax: I was sick of paying $100+ for a simple bikini line and leg wax. So, compliments of the Internet, I found 8ty8beauty.com where I could purchase all the supplies I needed to do it myself at home. It doesn't hurt anymore than paying to have it done, and just takes a little practice and patience.

8. Benefit's Georgia Peach finishing powder: I've been using this powder for years. Very versatile, smells great, and easy and quick to use! Compliments my complexion through the winter and summer!

7. No.4 Reconstructive Conditioner: My hairdresser only recently introduced me to this relatively new brand. It's amazing... expensive, but amazing!!

6. Bio-Oil: So, I know that science says there is no way to topically erase stretch marks, but this stuff is amazing!! So amazing, in fact, that I checked my old-school, had-them-since-high-school stretchmarks in the mirror before heading to the dermatologist the other day (because I was going to ask for a Rx treatment of something) and to my delight, after two years of religiously using Bio-Oil, I could hardly see them anymore!! I'm actually comfortable with the way they look now... miracle!

5. Jergens Natural Glow Moisturizing Lotion: Takes that winter-white glow off your skin and replaces it with a nice soft sun-glow. The scent was updated a couple of years ago and is much less offputting now. ... however I think the price has gone up, so I'm thinking of switching to one of the store off-brands. Anyway, love it! (PS - Also good for helping blend pesky tan-lines in the summer!)

4. Arbonne's No Sun Intended Compact Powder Bronzer: Great as an all-over bronzer and for accentuation cheekbones, etc... Comes with a huge mirror and is a great brown color, not orange!

3. BareEscentuals Eye Glimmers in Bare Skin: This is THE BEST eyeshadow color ever. I use it everyday - everyday. I can dress it up with other shades, or wear it alone. It's always out of stock in this shade around my house so I have to order it online from Sephora. Seriously, everyone needs this color and a fluffy eyeshadow brush in their makeup drawer!

2. Phytodefrisant Botanical Hair Relaxing Balm by Phyto: Wonderful, everyday use hair product. I use this humidity-blocking balm on my hair after every wash, whether I'm letting it dry naturally curly, or blow-drying straight!

1. GHD Professional Straightener: I used to think CHI was the holy-grail of hair straighteners, but as it turns out, they just spend a lot of money on advertising! What brand is used more by those in-the-know? GHD. Check them out! Hard-core, simple and easy, hair straightening power. It'll cost ya, but it's worth it!

Fundraiser Dress and Best Bra Ever!

A few months ago I posted about some of my absolute most fabulous fashion pieces I own... one of them is a gorgeous, hand beaded Sue Wong dress I purchased to wear for our wedding rehearsal dinner 3 years ago. I never thought I would be able to wear it again (comfortably) after having Connor. But... yea... miracles do happen!!

After lots of running and hours in the gym, I decided to give this dress one more night on the dance floor!!

On a related topic, wearing a backless dress can be daunting for a, A-Cup gal like me and boy-oh-boy did I happen upon an amazing product!!! A self-adhesive (no tape, glue, sticky mess, etc...) gel bra!! This product is so so great I couldn't wait to post about it here! The gel is thick and adds at least a cup size. There is a hook in the middle to create more cleavage. AND, the cups really stay on with no problem, and come off with no pain when you are ready!! I wore them for about 8 hours last night under that dress and they performed great! Woo hoo!! Even more surprising, I bought them at WALMART!! Yeah.... click HERE to see them online ... plus they are on clearance right now! Cannot say enough about this product!!