Human Valentine

Happy Valentine's Day everyone!!!  Today was a wonderful day for several reasons....  1) I didn't have to work today.  2)  I made a trip to not only one, but two Anthropologie stores!  (reviews to come this week)  and 3) My loving husband gave me some gorgeous flowers, took me out to dinner, and surprised me with an iTunes gift card since I just got an iPhone last week!  Any suggestions of cool apps I should download?  I hope your day was just as great.  Did you do anything special for Valentine's Day?

I have a confession - I actually wore this Valentine's Day-inspired outfit to work last Thursday.  I wanted to show my Valentine's Day spirit at school and since I don't work on Mondays and last Friday was a professional development day (i.e. dress in comfy casual clothes to sit and listen to speakers all day), it was last Thursday or never!
I think I look like a "human valentine" not only because of the obvious red and pink V-Day colors, but also because of all the details and patterns that look like they would be part of a homemade valentine.  Flowers...check.  Filigree...check.  Swirls...check.  Brocade pattern...check.  And it's all topped off with a heart necklace.  <3 <3 <3

Cardigan: JC Penney

Blouse: New York & Co.

Cami: The Limited

Skirt: Macy's (similar here)

Belt: Banana Republic Outlet (similar here and here)

Tights: Simply Vera Brocade Tights in grey (Kohl's - buy here) 

Shoes: Naya Cara Maryjanes (on sale here!)

Bracelet: Tiffany & Co. (I've had this a LONG time - no longer in stores, but sold on ebay here)

Ring: via SilverJewelryClub.com (really old)

Filagree Earrings: ??? - really old (similar here)

Necklace: Lagos Heart of Philadelphia Necklace (view details here or buy it here)

Stop and Smell the Roses

Even though it was freezing outside, today was a beautiful day.  The sun was so bright that it caused the snow and ice-covered parking lots to sparkle.  The sky was so blue that if you only looked up and ignored the large snow piles, it appeared to be a spring day. 
Despite the fact that I have a super-busy next couple of weeks at work, I was able to find moments today to relax and enjoy my surroundings.  I especially enjoyed taking time out from working with one of my students to hear about his weekend and play a game of "Hang Man."  He loved it and it brought a smile to my face as well!

Today I'm wearing a top which is the only thing I've ever bought (and actually kept) from Ruche.  I just adore the pretty rose print.  So much in fact, that I decided to overlook the awkward fit and keep it.  Well, not the fit exactly...that is fine.  The problem is that the fabric twists around at the top causing the vertical "stripe" down the middle to become misaligned...I have to constantly readjust it throughout the day!  Oh well!  I also pulled out a bright coral-colored skirt that I bought from J. Crew years ago.  It's lovely, but I haven't worn it forever because it's way too long and I still haven't gotten it hemmed yet.  I pulled the waist way up Steve Urkle style to make it a little shorter, hence why I decided to leave the shirt untucked and belt over my cardigan.  Guess I really need to take it over to my mother-in-law soon so she can shorten it for me in time for spring!!!

Blouse: Ruche

Cardigan: Old Navy

Skirt: J. Crew

Belt: Forever 21

Tights: Merona Premium Opaque Tights in navy (Target)

Shoes: Indigo by Clarks - Purse

Earrings: Etsy shop Nest Pretty Things by tamar (very similar here and here....or, check out all of her super pretty jewelry HERE!)

Are you able to "stop and smell the roses" even when you are really busy and stressed?  If so, what are your favorite ways to do so?

Walking on Clouds

Hope everyone is enjoying your Superbowl Sunday evening.  I'm just sitting here with my husband watching it.  And by watching it, I mean blogging while it's on in the background and actually paying attention during the commercials! 

It's been a pretty normal weekend.  Friday evening my husband and I had a nice dinner out.  We even ran into hubby's cousin while we were there and I also saw a friend I used to work with several years ago!  It was so nice to see her and catch up even though it was only for a few minutes.  Yesterday I was very productive.  I finally put together the storage shelves I bought at Target.  I straightened up one corner of the spare bedroom.  What once was a pile of random stuff is now nice and neat.  It feels so good, but I still have a long way to go with the cleaning and organizing!!!  Today we made a quick trip to the mall and to Best Buy.  I had to return a sweater that I bought on impulse from NY&Co. last weekend.  I realized that while it was cute, I just didn't love it....and I'd rather save that money for something I love (things on my Anthro wishlist perhaps!?)  We went into Best Buy because I'm finally going to get an iPhone next week and I was looking for a case for it.  Then we did some grocery shopping, I came home and did a little more organizing in the spare bedroom, and now it's finally time to relax!

For our day of running errands I wanted to wear my Ugg look-alike boots from Target.  Although they aren't the cutest footwear, they are so warm and comfy...felt like I was walking on clouds all day.  I decided I needed to wear tights with them because they are a little too tight to comfortably stuff my jeans into.  This is the outfit that fell into place.

Cardigan: Target - Merona Essentials Cardigan in purple

Top: Anthropologie Rippled Ridge Henley

Necklace: Banana Republic Outlet

Belt: Banana Republic Outlet

Skirt: Nordstrom Rack (really old!)

Tights: Simply Vera Geometric Tights in port royale (Kohl's)

Boots: Target - Xhilaration Kendra Suede Boots in chocolate

What were your favorite commercials from the Superbowl?

Pretty Cute Casual Friday + Some Mini-Reviews

It actually felt good to get up this morning and get dressed for work after having two days off!  Fridays are casual in my school district and everyone wears jeans.  Although most teachers/staff just wear sweatshirts or t-shirts with their jeans, I always try to dress up my outfit and look as cute as possible.  I decided it was the perfect day to break out my new boyfriend cardigan that I got at Banana Republic outlet last weekend. 

Kim at Anthroholic recently did a post on how to dress casual, but still look cute and feminine.  (Check it out HERE!)  Her post really inspired me not only because this is what I strive for with my style, but most importantly, because I learned some great new tips!!  Many of her tips were racing around in my mind as I put together todays outfit.  In fact, looking back at her post I realize that she was even wearing a long, light pink cardigan.  Must have been engrained in my subconscious to inspire this outfit!! 

Cardigan: Banana Republic Outlet (probably still in stores)

Tee: Banana Republic (Spring 2010)

Cami: The Limited

Jeans: Gap

Necklace: LOFT Long Silver/Mother of Pearl Flower Necklace (still in stores)

Shoes: Indigo by Clarks - Purse

 The soft mauve/light pink color is so feminine and I really like the silver contrasting along the edge.  The longer length is great (I don't really own any cardis this long besides the Anthropologie Dwarf Quince) and I love the two front patch pockets and v-neck.  I loved this cardigan so much that I couldn't decide between the two colorways they offered.......so I ended up buying the tan one with gold contrasting too!!! 

 I knew I wanted to wear a long necklace with my outfit today and I was rummaging through my jewelry box for a while trying to find the perfect match.  Then it clicked!  My new LOFT necklace that just arrived in the mail on Tuesday would be perfect! 

I mentioned last weekend that I bought this necklace off the website with a coupon I had.  The next day I noticed it was no longer on the website (sold out I guess?)  When it arrived I was disappointed because I hadn't expected it to be so big.  I packaged it back up and decided I was going to return it.  Then as I was trying on my new cardi something told me to dig it back out and give it a second chance.  Sure enough, I think it was the perfect match and after a self-pep talk I was brave enough to venture to work with the biggest statement necklace I've ever worn.  Got several compliments, so I guess it was a success.  Plus, the pretty feminine quirkiness grew on me as the day went on.  Now I can't wait to try to figure out another outfit to pair it with!!!  Any suggestions?????  Help!

The Wish List Continues to Grow.......

We had another snow day today.  I watched more episodes of Grey's Anatomy on instant Netflix (I stopped watching last season and now I'm trying to catch up!), did a little bit of organizing, and caught up on some blogs.  My husband and I decided to go out to eat since we hadn't left the house in 2 days.  We went to Buffalo Wild Wings, but it was packed!!  So, we ended up at our favorite local Mexican restaurant...yummy!  This evening I've mostly been brousing the Anthropologie website (in between watching The Office).  I was drawn to some new items and some older ones that I just hadn't noticed before.  My plan is to make a trip to the closest store this coming Monday so I can check some of these things out in real life!

Dots After Six Skirt - $148
A colorful a-line skirt with polka dots and a bow!?!  Plus, it appears not to be too short.  What's not to like?  I can only hope that it's as adorable on me as it is in the product shot!

Sail Shapes Dress - $158
I recently saw Kim try on this dress and it looked adorable.  This dress seems to have just popped up online today.  I love the shape of this.  You can't really tell in the photo, but it's a navy and red checkered print...adorable!  Can't wait to try this on!

Emerging Leaves Dress -$138
Many bloggers have reviewed this one recently.  I've been digging yellow this year, plus I really need more printed dresses in my wardrobe.  I love the leaf print and feminine shape...my biggest fear is that it may be too short in real life.

Miss Swiss Corset Dress - $168
This really isn't the typical style I'm drawn to, but this one just intrigues me.  I really doubt the corset top style will look very good on me, but I think this could easily be worn more as a skirt with cardigans or blouses layered over the top.  The pinstripes, lace, and colorful pink lace hemline are really really pretty!  Hoping my local store has this in stock so I can check it out!!

Gleaming Slow Poke Necklace - $38
I love turtles and I love necklaces.  What else is there to say?

Pacific Drift Necklace - $42
I seem to be drawn to statement necklaces with a circular pendent.  Plus, I love pieces with natural stones. 

Colossal Bow Barrette - $38
I've been looking for a cute hair barrette so I can wear my hair half-up more often.  The bow is just adorable and I'm a big fan of anything tortoiseshell.

Primavera Drops - $48
Soft spring colors (I'm really loving mint green and purple lately) and the vintage appeal make me keep staring at these.  Hoping the size isn't too overwhelming in real life because huge statement earrings really aren't my style.

Stoplight Drops - $198
On the wishlist because I wish I could actually afford these, but alas, they're way out of my price range.  Can't hurt to admirer them from afar though.  So timeless and chic.  Such soft pretty colors.  *Sigh*  Do you think there is even a chance these would ever make 2nd or 3rd cut sale???

Diamonds-Of-Dots Scarf - $48
The pattern reminds me of the Dotty Clusters tights with the polka dots in triangular patterns.  I'm a sucker for green and I haven't seen a scarf I love in a long time.....this could be worth the wait.

In The Wind Scarf - $38
Another scarf I really like, although not nearly as much as the one above.  I'll keep it on the wishlist in case of sale though.  Such a pretty pink pattern for spring and summer!

Strappy Stepper Shoes - $138
These appear to be the perfect feminine chic dressy sandals.  Gorgeous brown color, brass stud details, bow on the ankle strap, and a unique back zipper = PERFECT.  I don't feel comfortable wearing more than 2-2.5 inch heels, so they look to be the perfect height for me too!  I could imagine pairing these with almost every spring/summer dress and skirt I own!  They aren't in stock yet online....I'm wondering if these will be popular and go fast or if they would make it to sale in my size?  I'll have to keep a close eye on these so I don't miss out!

Wow, I really did add a lot to my wishlist today!!  I really like doing posts like this - it's just enjoyable and relaxing for me!  Plus, I really enjoy seeing other people's wish lists and reading why they like each item.  It is fun to look at the eye candy and I also enjoy seeing an up-close look at items I may not have otherwise noticed. 

Do you like reading posts like this or do you find it boring just to see what others are liking?  You can be honest, you won't offend me!!! 

Winter Wallop

"Winter Wallop"....that is the headline our local news station has been running all day to report on the blizzard we got last night into today.  I haven't left the house all day, but based on all the news stories and my glances out the window, it was nasty out there!  We got about a foot of snow and there were 50+ mile per hour winds whipping the snow all over the place and creating some major snow drifts!  Obviously, we had a snow day today.  Pretty much everything was shut down today....even the malls!!!  Plus, school is already cancelled for tomorrow too!  Woohoo!

So, what did I do with my day off?  Well, I had planned to put together the storage organizer that I bought at Target the other day and clean up the spare bedroom.  But instead I stayed in my pjs all day watching Grey's Anatomy on instant Netflix.  Both of my kitties were even lazy today....not that that's unusual for cats!  Aren't they cute all curled up together?!?

I also broused the Anthro sale online, but restrained myself from buying anything.....YET.  A few things on my wishlist went on sale, but I'll at least sleep on it before I cave.  Here are the items I'm considering:

Woody Nymph Dress - now $79.95

Foundry Blossoms Bracelet - now $29.95

Water & Earth Earrings - now $19.95

What do you think?  Should I splurge and pick up any of these lovelies now that they are on sale?

OOTD + the upcoming snow slam!

Hi readers!  Well, if you live in the midwest you obviously already know about the upcoming dreaded snowstorm.  Our news stations have been talking it up for the past few days.  Everyone seems to be in a state of panic.  Monday is our normal grocery shopping day and we like it because it's usually not very crowded.  However, when we got there yesterday it was jam packed!  Why do people freak out and feel the need to stock up on groceries because of a snow storm?!  Come on people, you may not be able to safely leave your house for 1, maybe 2 days...it's not THAT big of a deal.  I can understand running to the store for shovels, snow plows, salt, etc. but is it really necessary to buy up all the bread, milk, etc???  Like you're going to be stuck in your house for weeks and possibly starve to death??  Haha!
Anyway, everyone at school today was abuzz about the upcoming storm.  Teachers and school faculty get way more excited about an anticipated snow day than the students do!  The elementary teachers' ritual to try to ensure a snow day is to sleep with their pajamas inside out, put a white crayon in the freezer and flush 2 ice cubes down the toilet the night before..lol!  Any other teachers out there know about this superstitious tradition or did the teachers I work with just make it up?  By the sounds of it, we won't even need to do any of that...it appears that a snow day is definitely in the cards for tomorrow.

I almost left the house this morning in this outfit, but with a black belt and black flats.  At the last minute I thought "Are you crazy?  Is it really a smart idea to wear flats with tights in the snow today?"  So, I quickly decided to change into my boots and swaped the black belt for this cognac one.  I normally get scared of wearing brown with black/grey, but I threw those rules to the wind today in order to keep my legs comfy, warm, and dry.  And I think it ended up looking pretty nice.  :)

Cardigan: H&M (really old)

Blouse: Banana Republic Outlet (Fall 2010)

Skirt: Anthropologie Field Skirt 

Cami: The Limited Satin Trim Tank

Belt: LOFT (Summer 2010)

Tights: Anthropologie Dotty Clusters Tights

Boots: Steve Madden Intyce (here, here, or here)

To everyone affected by the blizzard of 2011 - be safe if you absolutely have to venture out in it!  Otherwise, enjoy your snow day!