One piece wonder

I'm a sucker for all things vintage, specifically from the 50s and 60s.  I think it stems from my love of Mad Men, baseball and antique kitchen appliances.  I've been noticing a lot of cute one pieces in recent months - many with a pin up-esque feel to them.  They're cute and flirty and don't leave you showing your midriff.  How very ladylike...or come hither, whichever you prefer!  Check out some of my favs from around the web. 

Clockwise from top left: Striped skirted suit from Macys at $79 (on sale), Maillot suit from Anthropologie at $158,Navy polka dots from Boden at $68 (!!), Oahu suit for Lands End at $36 (on sale woo!), One strap suit from Gap at $59, Twist front suit from JCrew at $88.
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Me again

Yes, I know February was a dead zone for me.  I was lacking inspiration and busy with a major milestone...more on that in another post. 

Like I've mentioned previously, I'm part of a small contingent of gals who still wears a suit to work every day.  And unfortunately, the Ann Taylor at our local (more high-end) mall recently closed, so I've been left with fewer brick and mortar options for suit shopping.  But alas, I perservered (suit shopping is a challenge, my friends) and  found a hidden gem last fall - Ross.  You know the discount store, like Marshall's and TJ Maxx?  It's a gold mine for suits, typically late in the summer or early in the fall.  They carry Calvin Klein, Nine West, Elie Tahari and Ann Klein.  I bought 3 - two Calvin Klein and one Ann Klein...for under $200.  Pretty awesome, eh?  The only hitch is that they weren't petite sizes so alas, they were a big lengthy on my 5'3'' frame.  As you know, one of my mantras is a good tailor is worth its weight in gold.  I took my new purchases to the tailor and for $30 each, I had both the sleeves and pants/skirts hemmed.  Now they look like they were custom fit for me...at a grand total of $90 each!

When I'm looking at "cheap" suits that will require alterations, I usually look for simple detailing and an overall decent fit.  For example, sleeves with buttons will be more costly to hem because the buttons may need to be moved and even a new button hole created.  I also look to find pants and skirts that fit in the waist and hips.  Typically, alterations to the body of an outfit are more expensive, so I look for a reasonable fit.  And another general rule, anything with a lining will be more expensive for alterations, because there are two fabrics/layers to adjust.  Happy shopping! 

*Photo courtesy of Overstock.
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Hope springs eternal

This is the time every year where I start to feel myself longing, almost desperately, for spring weather.  It's been winter for 3 solid months and I'm over it.  I'm ready to go pantyhose-less, turn in my wool coat for the year and open the windows on my way home from work.  On this dreary, chilly evening, I was greeted by a few spring catalogs.  And as I settled in for the night with a glass of pinot grigio, a slice of frozen pizza and a large green salad, I started perusing the latest Land's End catalog.  I've never been a big shopper at Land's End mostly because I've been a loyal LL Bean shopper for most of my adult life.  But last fall, a dear friend alerted me to Land's End awesome down vests...on sale for $25...and I was hooked!  I was amazed to find some super duper cute spring duds that I was dying to share.  I have a feeling one or more of these may end up in the UPS delivery man's truck en route to my home very, very soon!

Merriweather Coat at $89.50

Sailor T-shirt Dress at $59.50

Emma Classic Capstone Ballet Flats at $49.50

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I heart...vanishing dark circles

You know when people tell you that you look tired?  It's the kindest way to tell someone that they look crummy.  Who wants to look tired?  Well, my friends, that answer is simple - no one!  Even when I'm not tired, I suffer from persistent dark circles.  No matter how much sleep I get, there's always a trace of them around.  And I've tried all sorts of concealer to mask their icky appearance to no avail.  But recently I trekked to my local Sephora and hunkered down for a while.  I went in make-up free (gasp!) and went to town trying all sorts of products with a goal of finding some hardcore under eye concealer and a new eye shadow.  After trying three different concealers -  a Laura Mercier, a Dior and a Benefit, - I settled on the Benefit Erase Paste.

This little gem saved me over the last few weeks.  I've been majorly sleep-deprived and it helped my eyes look as bright as they possibly could under the circumstances.  It's a bit shellac-like, but it works.  It comes in a pot with a "spatula" for application. I also love that it came with a little booklet on how to best apply.  Available at Sephora for $26 in three shades. 

Thank you, Benefit Cosmetics - so grateful for this miracle worker!

*Disclaimer: I was neither compensated nor requested to write this post...I just like to write about products I love!
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Bachelorette Basics

Most of what I post on this blog has a lot to do with what's going on in my daily life.  I mean, let's be honest, my day-to-day routine isn't all that inspiring so when something is a bit more fun, it usually graces the pages of this site.  Recently, I had the pleasure of sharing a girl's weekend in honor of a very dear friend getting married next month.  I've known this girl since I was 14 years old.  We have shared so many memories together - college acceptances, high school boyfriends, collegiate adventures, first jobs and engagements.  And now I am beyond excited to stand by her as she is married to the man of her dreams.  But before she could walk down the aisle, we wanted to celebrate our dear friend with a bangin' bachelorette party!  We had a wonderful weekend on Long Island and it was just what she wanted.  And in the world of weddings with ever-expanding responsibilities, budgets and expectations, the bachelorette party can be tricky.  I've figured out a few things having helped throw two for good friends.

Know your pal: There's nothing worse than ordering a stripper for a conservative gal or bringing all beer to a wine-o's party.  If you're in the wedding, you have every right to delicately ask your friend what type of fete she would enjoy.  Maybe it's a rager on a club floor in Vegas or a low key weekend at a rented house on Long Island, but knowing this will definitely help ensure your party is a hit!

Location, location, location: While some may be able to jet across the country, Atlantic or Southern hemisphere for a long weekend, most are typically not afforded this luxury with time or the finances to back it.  And you don't have to go to Vegas or the DR to have a good time.  Pick a location that's attainable for the group.  In most cases, it's nice if a large percentage of the group doesn't need to fly to said location; in some cases it may be unavoidable though.

Don't break the bank: Unless the attendees all have large amounts of disposable income, which let's be honest, isn't all that common for a group of twenty-something women, it's smart to keep the budget under control.  A few splurges - maybe a limo or a private vineyard tour are great, but the whole celebration doesn't have to be about caviar and Dom Perignon.  It's smart to have a caucus with the group of planners (typically bridesmaids) to agree on a reasonable budget for the group.  Maybe its $300 and maybe its $1000.  Just pick something and stick with it.  Oh, it helps to communicate this tactfully to the attendees so they know what to expect.

Track it:  The ether is a perfect way to keep track of any logistics or aspects of planning.  Google docs is a great tool - you can keep track of things like attendees, contact info, transportation plans for all guests, ideas for favors, flowers and menus.

It's about her:  The number one thing to keep in mind is this is her celebration, not yours.  If she loves wineries and you're more of a beer and pretzels kinda girl, go with the flow and revel in her obsession with cabernets and pinots.  She may be a wild child or she may be more into a phallic-free celebration - just keep her wishes in the back of your mind as you are planning and reveling in girly fun times.

Seeing her light up with happiness, celebrating with her besties is all that any gal needs to enjoy this time!  Not to mention it's a great opportunity to meet some other friends attending the wedding.  No need to endlessly embarrass her; this isn't sorority hazing, it's a celebration of girlfriends so raise your glass in a toast to your friend, smile and have fun!
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A survival kit for life

Now that I'm a big girl, I've learned there are some things you just need in life.  I've compiled my list below, so add 'em to your Rolodex, repertoire or closet and feel free to weigh in on your ideas.  Voila!

A fabulous tailor.  They may not be the cheapest shop in town, but a versatile tailor who can hem your jeans and remake an evening gown when you lose weight is an invaluable commodity!  And if you're anything like me (somewhat petite in stature), you're in need of some nips and tucks with reasonable regularity.  Every gal needs one.

A power suit.  Even if you don't wear a suit on a daily basis, a perfectly fitting black suit is an asset to a closet...and many life situations.

A drinking buddy.  It may not be your BFF, but a fun acquaintance ain't bad either. 

A hobby.  It's easy to get into a rut of working and eating and sleeping.  Some extracurricular activities outside the office help make us well-rounded people and give us outlets.  It could be tennis, knitting, coaching a children's basketball team, etc.

A shoulder to cry on.  Every girl needs one friend or family member who will just let you blubber and listen, without judging whatever predicament you may be in. 

A hairdresser you trust.  We all need a change once in a while and a hairdresser you trust (and love) can help with that.  Whether it's a cute bob or new highlights, every gal needs a great hair stylist.

A current version of your resume.  You never know when you might need it...even if to toss across someone's desk on a whim.

A hot dress.  It doesn't even have to be black.  This is the one to make your ex-boyfriends jealous.  It works for a dinner out or a wedding...or to sit on your couch if you are in such a mood.

A success story.  Everyone has something for which they feel deep pride.  It could be your college degree, buying your first car, your child, etc.  Every gal needs a success story in her life - something that she can say "I did/made/earned that"...and bonus points if you did this solo.  It's so rewarding to see hard work pay off and generates a sense of self-worth and respect.

Now go ahead with your bad self!

*Photo courtesy of Boston Herald.
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Tame the wave

I have fluffy, wavy hair with a tendency for frizz.  And for years, I have resisted the natural waviness of my hair and spent hours sweating through constant hair drying and straightening.  My hair suffered and my patience suffered as well.  Then finally one day, I had a hair stylist (in Philadelphia) who actually knew what to do with my waves.  She gave me some invaluable advice on tools to deal with wavy, frizzy hair and prescribed a life saving product.  And ever since, I've lived happily ever after without lots of heat-induced styling in the stifling summer months.

Product: I've learned that lighter products are best.  In addition, go light on the product to avoid weighing your hair down and having the "crunchy" look (not my fav).  I'm a big fan of Sunsilk Waves of Envy and the Curls Rock line by Catwalk. 

Tools: A diffuser is a must.  I don't totally understand how they work, but these days most hair dryers come with a diffuser attachment.  Flip your hair upside down and gently use diffuser to "catch" the hair and move upwards towards the scalp, moving to different sections quickly, so you don't burn your scalp.  Sometimes, I'll use the dryer without an attachment to finish drying hair at the crown of my head.

Left to right: Sunsilk Waves of Envy at Amazon, T3 soft touch diffuser at Sephora, Catwalk Curls Rock Curls Amplifier at Amazon.
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Put your best foot forward

It's summertime, which means that your tootsies may need a little TLC.  It may be a crummy economy or catching a flight first thing in the morning for a family wedding that keep you from a pedicure appointment.  But no matter what the reason, every gal needs to know how to do a home pedi.  It's not all that challenging and if you add a little ambiance, you just might trick yourself into thinking you're at the spa...okay maybe not, but it's worth a try. 

Supplies:

• Bathtub, sink or wash basin
• Clean, fluffy towel
• Pumice stone
• Foot scrub (make your own with large granules of salt or sugar, mixed with olive oil
• Nail polish remover
• Nail clippers
• Nail file
• Cuticle stick
• Thick, moisturizer
• Toe separators
• Nail polish
• Clear, top coat (I prefer a quick dry)

1. Prep the battlefield: Remove any existing polish with nail polish remover.
2. Soak: Meanwhile, fill a bathtub, sink or wash basin with warm water and Epsom salts.  My favorite scent is lavender.  Plus it makes your bathroom smell divine!  Soak for about 10-15 minutes while you enjoy a book or magazine.  Dry thoroughly.
3. In the buff: Using a pumice stone (or equivalent), lightly buff each foot, focusing on the heels, bottoms and any calluses.  Be gentle - you don't need to take all of the skin off!
4. Scrub a dub: Using a scrub of your choice (I love a sugar scrub), massage your feet and lower legs in circular motions.  This exfoliates and helps moisturize (if you have an oil based scrub).
5. Clip: Clip nails to desired length and file to desired shape (if you're wondering, square-ish is in!).  Push back cuticles (gently!) with cuticle stick.
6. Moisturize: Using your favorite foot cream, rub over feet and lower legs, ensuring heels and nails aren't missed.
7. Add some color: Separate your toes using a separator or a thick strand of cotton.  Using your favorite color polish, apply a base coat and then a secondary coat.  Finish with a top coat.
8. Patience is a virtue: Give your freshly painted toes a good 30 minutes to thoroughly dry.  And don't forget to sit back and enjoy your handy work!

A selection of my favorite foot-pampering products are below:

Clockwise from top left: Bath and Body Works Shea it isn't so foot cream at $15, The Body Shop Peppermint foot scrub at $14, Sephora Pumice Stone at $2.50,Sephora by O.P.I. nail colour at $9, L'Occitane Sugar Scrub at $36.

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Makeup Obsession

Since I recently mentioned cleaning out my make-up bag, I thought I would share the 3 things in that bag that I can't live without.  Lucky for you, the color isn't important - it's the formula in each of the items below that makes them special.

Diorshow Blackout Mascara

 Clinique Acne Solutions Foundation

Chanel Glossimer lip gloss in pagoda (not the color here - p.s. my boss bought me this for my bday - how cool is she?!)

*Photos courtesy of Sephora, Clinique and Chanel.
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A glimmer of hope

This weekend, we finally experienced our first hope that spring might someday come this year.  While many of you up north are giggling at my optimism, our pseudo-southern town isn't used to winters filled with snow and frigid temperatures through late February.  Now my mind has been racing thinking about the intoxicating qualities of warm sun, cute sandals and spring skirts.  A pictorial view inside my longings for spring:

Clockwise from top left: Lilly Pulitzer Roslyn Skirt Ladder, Kate Spade Watch Hill Zippered Handbag, JCrew Alpansia Swiss Dot Blouse, Pink Hyacinth.
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Betty would approve

It's no secret that I have a (borderline) obsession with the TV show, Mad Men. And I've always had a slight penchant for the vintage housewife style and this show and one of it's main characters, Betty Draper, has just fueled the fire. So in honor of my favorite show and a style of which I adore, I found some beautiful 1960s-inspired gift and holiday trends.

1. Maggy London Halter dress from Barrie Place at $69; 2. Gold and pearl brooch from Silver Moon Trading Company at $15.95; Perfume Tray from Touch of Class at $31.75; 4. Silk Scarf from Amazon at $69; 5. Faux fur trimmed wool coat from New York and Company at $105 on sale.
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I don't have all the answers

This is definitely true. Case in point - my latest make-up needs. I'm really desperate for a new foundation and concealer. I have been unfortunately graced with awful dark circles under my eyes, no matter how much sleep I have, vitamins I take or water I drink. Basically, my current products just aren't cutting it. I'm fearful that as I approach the big 3-0, I need some heavy duty products. Eeek!

I'm definitely not the girl that strides confidently to the MAC counter, chit chats with her favorite MAC girl (clad in neon turquoise eye make-up), asks to wear what she's wearing and walks away with a shopping bag full of new make-up. So here's where I need your help ladies. Realizing that not everyone has the same complexion, skin or budget, how do you approach my dilemma? At which make-up counter do you start first? With the onset of Sephora (and other similar stores), my allegiance to brands is pretty much nil, so I'm open to most brands/counters here. Also, any make up artists out there who want to come to Southern VA and give me a make over, your services are welcome! I figured it was at least worth a try...

*Photo courtesy of Sephora.

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Wrap it up

When I was in college, I sort of had a uniform for weekend evenings – typically jeans (or a jean skirt), black top, black shoes and I tied it all together (pun intended) with a black and white scarf, worn as a belt. Given the presence of lightweight scarves in fashion accessories these days, I’d like to think of myself as a trend setter. Yes? Ok, maybe not so much, but in any case I’m a huge fan of the lightweight scarves, capable of turning jeans and a white t-shirt into a more snazzy ensemble or pairing them with a plain suit for work or with a black cocktail dress to add a little zest of color. Here are a few of my favorites and one of these made its way into my closet by way of a recent birthday gift – woo!

1. Comet Trail Scarf from Anthropologie at $32, 2. Soft Floral Scarf from The Gap at $29.50, 3. Jersey scarf from Old Navy at $5 (!!) on sale, 4. Fab Plaid Scotch Scarf from Forever 21 at $3.50, 5. Floral Jacquard scarf from Forever 21 at $10.80, 6. Made of Me Explosion of Roses scarf from Nordstroms at $28, 7. Spotty Wool scarf from Boden at $48, 8. Paisley Scarf from Banana Republic at $70.

*Photos courtesy of The Gap, Banana Republic, Anthropologie, Nordstroms, Old Navy, Boden USA, Forever 21.
Related Posts: Looking Fab on Center Court, Cover up for just a few bucks, I heart...Lily.
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Brow Perfection

Another pseudo product review: Anastasia Brow Gel in clear.


In a word -genius! I am definitely one of those girls that has crazy eyebrows. I have often seen photos of myself with brow hairs spewing all over my face and thought to myself "how does that always happen??" Well, I think my Mom finally found the perfect remedy - brow gel. This wonder-product goes on clear (really, it does!) and helps shape your brows, perfectly. It feels a little hard or crunchy to the touch, but is definitely not visible. I actually asked a bunch of people to see if they could tell and no one could - it must be magic! So for all those gals out there with crazy eyebrows like me, I definitely recommend that you pick up this fab product. You can find it at Sephora or on Amazon and I've seem small tubes for about $12 and larger ones for about $21. I've been using my tube since Christmas (last year) and it's still going strong!


*Photo couresy of Amazon.
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Do it up!

My dear friend Jamie is getting married next weekend and I'm working on a perfect up do for her big day. I have a few photo options below. Your input is welcome - leave a comment with your fav. :) I'll post pics post-wedding with the result!

Option 1: Braid with low bun.

Option 2: Another braid with low bun.

Option 3: Low, loose bun.

Option 4: Curls pinned in low bun.

*Photos courtesy of Celebrity Hairstyles Fashion, Prom Styling Tips, Wedding TV, Carrie Photos.

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The UPS man is my friend

I previously wrote about my discovery of Boden here. I ended up ordering this silk skirt and this stripped Henley sweater off their (proverbial) sale rack.

I figured since I blogged about discovering the catalog, I should post some comments about my recent order. I received both items last night and let me tell you this shop has got it together! Their mailing envelope/bag thingie was so cute - teal green with grey polka dots - a nice touch compared to the brown, smiley face boxes we so often receive from Amazon. And since I was a new customer, I was able to snag free shipping, so all in all it was a pretty good bargain. The skirt is beautiful - perfect for work with a sweater or a night out with a pretty black top and sandals. The sweater is so cute in person and beautifully soft, but unfortunately a bit too big. I'll be sending it back this weekend and unfortunately they don't have my size so no dice there. For those wondering about the UK-US sizing translation, it wasn't so bad. I took a gander at the measurements in addition to the US sizing and ordered my normal size, so no major issue there. But with any store, ordering from a catalog is a bit more challenging than shopping at a brick and mortar store.

*Photos courtesy of Boden.

Related posts: I heart...Lily, Cover up for just a few bucks, Look cute even in a downpour.
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Going to the Chapel

My dear darling bride-to-be cousin is soon to be dress shopping for the dress...that's her wedding dress for those few men who actually read this. She recently sent me an email asking for some advice and ideas. Having been through this fun, but extremely overwhelming experience about two years ago, I have a few tips for Cynthia and for other brides looking for the perfect wedding day duds.

1. Make an appointment! Most bridal salons require it, particularly for weekends.
2 Look through bridal magazines before you go. This way, you'll have an idea of what you like when you arrive at the bridal salon. Bonus points for tearing out pages to show to your bridal consultant.
3. Know your budget and don't hesitate to be firm when being offered dresses that don't meet it.
4. Bring your nearest and dearest. This is a special occasion and it's nice to have your fondest family and friends in tow. My Mother and 3 bridesmaids accompanied me on our whirlwind bridal and bridesmaid dress shopping weekend.
5. Wear comfortable undergarments that won't make you blush if your mother, grandmother, friends, bridal consultant and 10 other brides in the salon see as you parade around trying on dress after dress!
6. Bring a strapless bra.
7. Know the timing and season for your wedding. For a summer wedding, you probably won't want a heavy fabric and likewise, for a January wedding, chiffon just won't do.
8. If you find a designer that you love, look for locations when they may be hosting a trunk show. You can usually find discounts from 10-15% which can be substantial when looking at a pricey dress.
9. Try on different accessories if you find a few dresses between which you cannot decide. A veil, crinolin or necklace might make your decision for you.
10. Keep an open mind. You never know...that the beaded mermaid cut your maid of honor picks might turn out to be drop dead gorgeous on you!
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Shameless plug

Hello blog-friends! Warning: shameless plug in this post. My dear friend Susan submitted her photo (see below) to earn a walk-on roll on the AMC show Mad Men. This is a fantastic show that takes place in the early 1960s, chronicling the advertising executives on Madison Avenue. It's incredibly smart, has gorgeous clothes and sets and is great cocktail party conversation! Season 3 comes back on the air Sunday, August 16th. Check out her photo below and vote for her (5 stars preferred!) here.

Good luck, Susan - we think you're perfect for the show! :)
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I heart...fab hair products

I consider myself to be a picky consumer and when I find something I love, brand loyalty inevitably ensues. Now I don't always buy the same brand of salsa or mascara or light bulbs, but I am extremely loyal to Mr. Frederic Fekkai's Glossing Cream. Seriously, this stuff is amazing! And for a gal like me with a VERY frizzy mane, it is a life saver. Even when I was an impoverished college student, this wonder product found its way into my measley budget. Yes, it's a hair pricey at $27.50 for 7 oz, but trust me when I say that it will last several months (usually 4-6 for me). I've also used the cooresponding shampoo and conditioner, which are nice, but aren't must haves.

The entire Fekkai line used to be sold at Bath and Body Works, but it was recently removed from their inventory. But fear not, ladies, it's sold at most Sephora stores and online. Happy hair do-ing!

*Photo courtesy of Fekkai.com.
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A new (fashionable) discovery

I'm definitely one of those gal's who receives a fair few catalogs in the mail. This week, I was pleasantly surprised to receive a Boden catalog (request your own catalog here). The name seems quite familiar, but I'm fairly confident that I have never purchased anything from them. They're sort of a cross between JCrew, Anthropologie and Benetton. I really like their bright colors for fall and the obvious British influence in their style - they have LOTS of very cute rain coats and matching hats and boots and lots of fun dresses paired with crazy tights. They're offering 15% off your first order and I think I may pick out a fun blazer or skirt for fall.

I LOVE LOVE LOVE this jacket, especially in green. Boden Parisienne Jacket at $148.

Check out this great purple shift dress - I would totally rock this at work with tights and pumps and on a Saturday night with funky shoes and jewelry. Boden Giant Geo Spot Shift at $98.

If I lived in Seattle or the UK, I would totally buy a cute rain outfit like this one! Cloud Spotter Mac coat at $138 and hat at $34.

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