Forever Frugal Friday

 

i fell in love with this striped cutout dress after seeing it on stephanie sterjovski's instagram feed the other weekend.  i think it is so cute and fun and summery and i am crossing my fingers that i find it at my local forever 21 this weekend to wear to a going away party saturday night. 

 

 

Forever Frugal Friday

 

i love this breezy southwestern dream shift dress w/ sash from forever.  i love the way it is styled here and i love the option of cinching in the waist and throwing on some heels to dress it up a bit.  perfect little dress for hot summer days. 

Forever Frugal Friday

 

i have a love hate relationship with maxi dresses.  i love the look of them, but with my short frame tend to feel overwhelmed in one.  and this past weekend on montana avenue all i could see where cute women everywhere sporting maxi dresses. 

 

and so even though b is not a fan of maxi dresses, i am on the hunt for the perfect maxi dress (that will of course require hemming) for summer 2013.  while i would prefer a bright colored maxi to sport around town, this tribal print maxi dress could be a good start at an incredible price of under$25! 

 

are you on board for the maxi dress trend?  what are your favorite maxi dresses out right now?

 

 

Gap Goodies ~ Spring 2013

 

my gf samela and i popped into the gap at lunch yesterday and let me just say thank gosh i accidentally left my wallet on my desk or i could have done some major damage there. 

 

spring has officially sprung at the gap and the store is filled with brights, florals and all things sunny. 

 

my current lust list includes this shrunken boyfriend gingham shirt (with some white jeans), this animal print scarf (which is light and soft and perfect for spring), these rose blush leather flip flops (in every color - seriously they are the best flip flops EVER) and this roll-sleeve pocket shirtdress (in active yellow). 

 

i only ended up bringing this  harbor jersey striped dress home with me (a steal of a deal at $30 including tax) but am hoping to stop in tomorrow (with my wallet this time) and pick up a few of the items above. 

Forever Frugal Friday

 

with the sun shining and spring officially here it's all about the sundresses for me!  i love this blue tribal inspired dress.  perfectly priced at under $15 bucks it would be perfect for an upcoming music festival (that i am sadly once again not attending) or brunching with the ladies. 

 

loves.

Forever Frugal Friday

 

this flared scuba dress will be mine. 

 

i saw it a few weeks back when i bought my new fave peplum top and wanted to buy it but was trying to stay focused.  however, i have thought about this dress at least five times since, and it is such a steal of a deal, i am not sure why i am still hesitating .

 

the color is gorgeous and the fabric is soft and provides great coverage.  perfect little early edition to my spring wardrobe i think...

Forever Frugal Friday

just like last year, i continue to be drawn to animal prints, neon, stripes and chevron and why not allow a few trends from last seep into this year? 

 

leopard print ballet flats - must own

 

geo pattern shift dress - while i am not crazy about the color of the dress, i do really enjoy the belt and chevron print.  i am thinking with a bright statement necklace we have an all around winner!

striped shirred waist top - it can be concluded that i have a slight addiction to stripes, but then to go ahead and add the peplum to the stripes - go ahead and commit me cause i love every bit of it.

what trends are you okay with moving from 2012 to 2013?  which trends would you like to see disappear?


Holiday Party Time...Rent the Runway Style

i have been dying to try rent the runway for my next big event and finally had the opportunity for my company holiday party. 

 

the dress code was cocktail, so i new i wanted to go short, and for the longest time i have been wanting to wear an all sequin dress. 

 

enter the mark & james by badgley mischka mini sequin pixie dress 

 

 

after searching their endless supply of amazing dresses, and reading numerous reviews i decided to order the dress in an xs and s.  my event was on the 8th and i received my dress on the 7th. 

 

only problem was that i only received one dress instead of the two i ordered (they always give you one extra size free).  i glanced at the size xs and was a little nervous that i would have to do some last minute shopping. 

 

lucky for me, the size xs fit like a glove. 

 

(i should mention that rtr did email me on the 6th (and i missed the email) that they would only be shipping the xs as there was an issue with getting the s)

 

off to the party b and i went and let me just say the dress was a hit!  i loved dancing in it and it was definitely a conversation starter! 

 

i opted to go with a "sock bun" top knot, simple eyes and bold lips which i think complimented the dress even more. 

 

we had such a great time that we forgot to take more pictures (or a full length shot) and at the end of the night i didn't want to give the dress back! 

 

but back into the pre-addressed stamped envelope it went and i bid adieu to all the fun memories the dress provided. 

 

although my rent the runway experience wasn't perfect, it was pretty damn close and i will most definitely be renting in the near future again! 

 

be sure to check out rent the runway for your next event...perhaps some more sparkly goodness for new years?

Carmen Marc Valvo & Christian Siriano Spring 2013 RTW Collections

with fashion week all wrapped up, i thought i would share a few more of my favorite collections. up first...

 

carmen marc valvo

 

 

i am definitely biased towards this collections as the entire collection focused in on cinched waists.  i have always been blessed with a small waist and it is my favorite feature to emphasize in my wardrobe choices. 

 

carmen marc valvo did an incredible job with all the collection from the colors, to the textures and of course the signature tie at the waist.  i think that middle white dress would make a stunning wedding gown and i am really hoping to see someone sport the far right design at the emmy's or any award show for that matter.

 

ever since he was on project runway and introduced the world to a whole new level of "fierce", christian siriano has not disappointed me once with his fashion collections.  in fact, he continues to stun and amaze me with his ingenuity and creativity.

 

let's just agree that the man knows how to create a show stopping gown.  the middle dress reminds me of a dress i would have put on my barbie growing up and i think just about any girl would love to wear for one day in their life. 

 

i especially loved this collection and his use of watercolors and lightness.  so feminine, so pretty and so perfect in every single way!  project runway definitely got it right with this talented winner!

NYFW - Monique Lhuillier Spring 2013 RTW Collection

i am very much behind in my spring 2103 rtw collections, but took a minute today to check out a few designers and have to say that monique lhuillier knocked it out of the park. 

 

her name has always been synonymous with wedding gowns and red carpet appearance but this collection is a beautiful blend of all things gorgeous!

her bold prints blended so beautiful together and really flatter a woman's body.

 

her bold jewel tones brights and glittery gold and black had my eyes all aglow. 

and not to disappoint her gowns were sheer genius - literally. 

 

i loved her use of colors, textures and patterns!  she did not disappoint and left me with a whole new vision of monique lhuillier. 

 

what have your favorite collections been so far?  keep checking back here as i hope to share some more of my fave shows in the next few days!  any i should look at immediately?

 

and can i just say out loud that one day i will attend nyfw?

Forever Frugal Friday

 

i haven't hopped on the "it's fall now" bandwagon at all.  i still want to wear summery dresses and play in the sunshine and late into the night. 

 

while fall doesn't technically arrive until september 22nd, perhaps i can ease into the new season with this button tab shirtdress w/ belt.  i mean it kind of has long sleeves, and it's black so that makes it fall-ish right? 

 

even if the temperatures are super hot still here in l.a., once the sun goes down this dress is easily transitioned with ankle booties or even glam it up with some sexy heels for date night. 

 

whatever way you choose to wear it, you are sure to be a hit!

Forever Frugal Friday

as the summer weeks dwindle down and labor day is fast approaching, now is the time to fit in as much white dress wearing as you can! 

i love this eyelet swing dress (hate the styling) and think it is a perfect summer date dress.  pair it with a bright lace trim bandeau and you add a little spice to the dress. 

eyelet, white and scalloped edges - the definition of summer.

Desperately Seeking Sully ~ Rebecca Minkoff

remember back in junior high, when all your friends had something cool and you just wanted to fit in and buy it too regardless of how silly the trend was (cross color t-shirts anyone)?

well my friends i have major friend purchase envy and it is all due to one girl...rebecca minkoff.

not only does it seem like she is always having a fun time (fun to follow on instagram), but she is always giving shout outs to her "minkettes" and i think it is just about the cutest thing i have seen in a long while. 

and the best part about rebecca minkoff is her use of color, style and playfulness in her designs.  i am definitely lacking a signature rebecca minkoff piece.  my awesome iphone cover was stolen (along with my awesome iphone) and now i am yearning for something new, not only to fit in with my fabulous friends but because i too want to be a minkette!

i currently have the my treasures pouch in my shopping cart but also want to purchase the omfg pouch in persimmon because it brings a huge smile to my face.  the kahel leather jacket is straight up gorgeous and would look quite lovely with the mac stud clutch.  and for that wedding september first, i would be ever so happy to be caught in the claudia dress.  and i am still crossing my fingers i can give my passport another stamp and carry it in this leopard print passport wallet.

are you lucky enough to be a minkette?  what's your fave rebecca minkoff item? 

mark my words - i will be a minkette soon enough!

Forever Frugal Friday

a good striped light weight dress is just what every girl needs for summer. 

loving this basic striped dress w/ belt from forever in charcoal and navy.  perfect for days out on the boat, summer concerts or afternoon brunch.

hip-hip-hooray for stripes!

AllSaints McQueen

has anyone else been watching sytycd?  oh boy i just love that show.  i love the music, the choreography, but often times i enjoy cat deely's incredible wardrobe. 

the 200th episode of sytycd premiered with cat walking out in this bedazzling allsaints oyster long sleeved dress and totally squeaked out loud.  then i saw the gorgeous taylor from glitter guide wearing it for her bachelorette party and i was oh so jealous. 

the colors in the dress are modest and calm - a complete juxtaposition with the head to toe sparkle.  the colors intrigued me and led me to my next obsessions the alexander mcqueen swarovski crystal double-skull bracelet, the swarovski crystal accented skull barnacle ring and the enameled skull bangle all which would work on their own with this dress or absolutely anything else!

unfortunately these items are all but a wish in my lust list, which left me craving some actual sparkles and shine that i can afford. 

deborah lippmann's dancing in the dark is just the perfect combo of dark and light. 

loafers aren't normally my style but make them pink and add glitter and all of a sudden they are just my style.  these kate spade cora glitter patent leather & metallic loafers may be on the pricey side but they would be worth the splurge since they are work friendly!

bobbi brown's sparkle eyeshadow is a great way to add shine and glitter into your life without looking like a stripper.  pretty and lady like and just right for that special night.

lastly the emi-jay gold glitter hair ties are just awesome for summer ponytail's or to keep your hair back and end up with a dent.  i picked up a few a few years ago and fell in love and was recently gifted a glittery black and tie-dye one from mrs. r.  adore!

what's your thought on glitter and shine everyday?  do you save it just for special occasions or wear it all the time loud and proud?

What to Wear - Colorado Wedding

b and i are off to a wedding in colorado in a few weeks and i am complete stumped on what to wear. 

i figured now would be the best time to try out rent the runway since i have been dying to try it for some time now.  below are my three favorite choices, all under $75, would you be so kind to help a girl out with your opinion?

bcbg my soulmate dress - love the color, love the tulle trim and the sweetheart neckline.  but is too bridesmaid-y?

tibi's bond girl dress - love the pleated skirt and the sweetheart bodice - been eyeing this puppy for many events.  too much for a summer wedding?

shoshanna's optical bustier dress - the color is unique and i love the pattern and fit.  plus pockets never hurt anyone!  but is it a bit on the boring side?

but then i peeped over at nordies and noticed this parker strapless silk dress i've been crushing on is on sale - and i could own it and wear it again! 

the colors are my fave and i like the pattern at the bottom - fun and unique.  but is it a little too crayola crayon-y? 

i reach out to you my lovely ybb readers to help me decide what to wear to this wedding.  i am going to be meeting new friends and girlfriends and want to look spectacular.  i've been working out hard at the gym and want to show off the results i have achieved while mingling and having some fun. 

xoxo

Forever Frugal Friday

oh how i love when summer arrives.  even though the weather in la is almost always sunny.  summer time brings bright colors, bold prints and the ability to wear just about anything because it's summer!

i am loving this essential blushing shift dress in blue (also available in coral and yellow) as it is casual enough to wear to brunch and running around town but you could spice it up with some bold accessories and heels and wear it out and about as well. 

gotta love a dress you can get multiple purpose wears out of. 

i also love the casual-ness summer brings.  all you really need any saturday is a pair of jean shorts (my goal is to fit into a pair that i love this summer) and a cute ass tank top.  well i found this cute metallic heart racerback tank that would look darling with just about anything, but still need to find those jean shorts...

what is your essential clothing item to wear in the summer? 

Forever Frugal Friday ~ Current Faves

i want to wear this ditsy floral surplice dress w/ belt tomorrow for my gf's b*day celebration.  sexy, cute and paired with cowboy boots totally appropriate for early evening celebrating in venice!

a few years ago my gf mrs. r, brought me back a fantastic weekender/workout bag that i have used the life out.  the zipper no longer zips and it needs to be replaced badly.  i have been looking for an affordable weekender/workout bag for sometime now (under $50) and think i may have found a winner with this striped canvas duffle.

i also want this strapless combo dress for summer cocktails and possibly the wedding i am attending next weekend in seattle.  only i would replace the cheap black belt with my gold glitter jcrew skinny belt or my neon pink express skinny belt to liven it up a bit. 

Desperately Seeking Sully ~ Sensational Stripes

this past weekend in whistler i tried on the lululemon stride jacket above and fell instantly in love.  not much of an impulsive shopper, i thought it best to wait and pickup in the states.  dumb move.  it is no longer available and if i want to make it mine i have to buy it on ebay.  tear.

also, i am loving this topshop giant pansy stripe bodycon dress which was in 3 magazines i read over the weekend.  don't worry...sold out as well.  mother trucker. 

those two sold out striped goodies got me in an all things stripe mood and has me thinking i shouldn't delay in purchasing the stripes below.

diagonal stripe 4 / skipper beach duffle / stripe bandeau bikini top / striped cotton dress

I'm Lovin' It

{via}

just finished breaking bad season two on friday...eagerly awaiting the arrival of disc one of season three.  i love that walt. 

oh yeah, and don draper's back...what's not to love about that? 

zou bisou bisou

i had a little time to wander around third street before easter brunch, and happened upon these amazing steve madden studlyy flats that i just cannot stop thinking about.  in fact, just typing that sentence out reminds me of how sad i am not that i do not own them...just may have to fix that problem...

um, anyone been in the gap recently?  i want every single item they are currently carrying.  if the third street store wasn't out of my size in this dot sateen dress you can guarantee i would be the proud owner of it. 

seriously people.  get into the gap.  every single thing is awesome and lustworthy. 

{via}

in an effort to stay paleo, healthy and energized i stumbled upon these bars by go raw and am smitten.  i have not tried the live granola bar, but all of the other four and while some are better than others, they are truly all tasty and fulfilling.  my faves are the banana bread flax bar and the spirulina energy bar. 

l.a. residents...they are currently on sale for $0.99 at ralphs...go stock up!

i have been on the hunt for the more affordable version of this look for a few weeks now and surprisingly have had zero luck.  i love these two simple pieces together really leave an elegant and yet casual look.  i also just may have to splurge on the pieces to get my dream look.

a few years back i bought the h&m version of these tuleste market rosette earrings for less than $5 and wore the shit out of them.  i received compliments almost every time i wore them and was sad to retire them after b told me they were looking very tarnished and not so nice. 

i miss them so very much and would have bought every single pair in the store if h&m carried them still, but alas they do not.  instead, i may just need to hunker down and buy the original inspiration for my knockoffs which are way prettier and actually very affordable. 

what are you currently lovin'???