Forever Frugal Friday

 

these spike threaded bracelets must be added to my arm candy party collection for spring.  my two favorite colors, in neon with some major gold flare.  win win for me!

Hearts all Around!

dvf iphone case / hanky panky / archie's girls collection / lip slip / bangle / baby love tee

 

i surprisingly am not a huge fan of v*day.  never have been, never will be. 

 

what i do love about v*day however is the abundance of hearts, pink and cinnamon candy that you just can't seem to escape. 

 

if i were to expect sweet b to buy me surprise me with a prezzie this thursday however, any of the items above would tickle me pink!

 

however, it should be noted that even once february 14th passes, i do intend to still wear a lot of pink, hearts and eat cinnamon candy. 

 

xoxox

Forever Frugal Friday ~ Stripes & Scallops

necklace/tank/heels/skirt

i am majorly loving the scallop lace trend that i see everywhere.  combine that with some stripes that i am still addicted to from last year, some nude heels and a statement necklace and i have a perfect little friday or saturday night outfit. 

now where to go...

Forever Frugal Friday

just recently purchased a necklace very similar to the colorblocked fringe necklace above at a very different price from express.  the necklace is one of my favorites and i am loving this forever version almost better!

seeing as i don't need two of the same necklace, i also spied this short colorblocked necklace and think i must become the proud owner of it.  i love the pop of pink, the contrasting gold and could find many items to wear it with. 

with colorblocking continuing to be such a hot trend this spring, why not mix it up colorblock your neck!

Forever Frugal Friday ~ Preen Inspiration OOTD

(thank you jen for taking my photo...i felt ridiculous!)

two weeks ago i picked up the CUTEST bright pink blazer at forever 21 from their heritage 21 section (L.A. peeps - i bought it upstairs at the culver city/fox hills store) for $22.80!  i mean what a steal!  i couldn't wait to share this find with you all!  i am sad however, to report that i cannot find it online for the life of me! 

so instead i thought i would share my cute pink knockoff of the amazing incredible Preen Hutchinson Jacket (i mean can we just discuss the price difference here?) and how i wore it to work today.  i received numerous compliments, surprisingly the most compliments came from men who really liked the "flashy neon", called me "pink panther" and liked my "pink version of the masters green jacket". 

i am really wanting to pick up another bold blazer, and think any of the below are sure to be the perfect accent piece to add into your spring wardrobe!  perfect for work, play and if you really want to get crazy, some color blocking trending with colored jeans!  eek!

one/two/three/four 

Forever Frugal Friday

I have this weird obsession with cute printed thermals.  They remind me of long johns and bundling up and I just love the look.  This Mixed Patterned Thermal is absolutely coming home with me to Seattle this holiday season.  Pure perfection.  And for under $10 you have got to be kidding me! 

Forever Frugal Friday

Next Monday, I depart for Denver to spend Thanksgiving with B and his family.  I was super excited until I realized I didn't have any appropriate pajamas.  Old boxer shorts, skuzzy sweats and holey washed too many times t-shirts sure, but legit cute, come down to breakfast, be seen in public pajamas, no such luck.  Thus began my quest for cute pajamas. 

Surprisingly the options available were slim to none (unless I wanted $50 pj pants or ultra thin see through ones) and I was freaking out a bit, until my sweet roomie Aves came to my rescue with these cuties!  But I figured two pairs of pj bottoms is never a bad thing and wouldn't you just know that Forever has these cute Jumbo Dot Flannel PJ Bottoms which I just adore, and for under $11! 

What is your favorite thing to sleep in (besides your birthday suit)?  Any great must have pj's that I should check out?  Also do you think wearing pj's to breakfast with your boyfriends parents is ok?!

I'm Lovin' It

Last week I was ever so luckily invited to attend the private shopping event at Christian Louboutin store on Robertson by my gf Kristina (in the gorgeous coral number).  Unfortunately I was unable to do any shopping at all, but I did get to meet and be photographed with the amazing Brad Goreski! 

He couldn't have been any cute in person, and can we just say that he is as nice as can be.  He was sweet enough to answer a few questions I had, such as when will your show begin taping (soon), where will it be filmed (LA, NYC, all over) and what channel could we watch all the goodness (Bravo - SWEET).  I wished him the best of luck and then threw back a glass of Veuve to celebrate.  When I left he was waiting for valet and he actually waved and said goodbye to me and wished me luck. 

I am officially even more in love with him than before!

This Asos Boxy Flat Lock Clutch.  I want to wear it with white denim and a bright colored tank and some amazing wedges.  Love the bright pink and gold details.

I know we all love Atlantic Pacific's fashion choices, but this ensemble had me absolutely drooling on my keyboard at the straight up fabulous-ness of it.  Adding to my must purchase for summer necessities - blue and white gingham button up. 

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This weekend marks my girl Christy's 30th, and as a graduate of Wazzu, we don't know how to celebrate a little bit...only a lot of bit.  I have a feeling stuffing our purses/pockets with these napkins isn't the worst idea ever...

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Now that I am able to eat chocolate again, I find myself surprised that I haven't been gorging myself on any and everything chocolate.  That was until I tried my coworkers dark chocolate covered edamame and find that I am constantly wanting to sneak into the snack cupboard to grab another handful.  Dangerously good.

B.  He makes me smile, laugh and happy.  It's a pretty amazing feeling that I feel blessed to experience.

Forever Frugal Friday ~ Easter Style Under $50

Ditsy Floral Ruffle Dress, Open Side Suedette Heels, Haute Pink Nail Polish, Pressed & Faux Ivory Bangles

In case you are still trying to throw together a sweet little outfit for Easter or just a cute look for brunch with friends, all of the items above will cost you a grand total of $50.20!  They are all easily interchangeable with other items you already own and are perfectly flirty and sweet and just scream spring! 

Easter Best Dressed

(click to enlarge)

1 - Mon Cheri Dress

2 - Ruffle Dress

3 - Kelly Dress

4 - Ruffle Print Dress

5 - Ruffle Cami Dress

6 - Side Drape Jersey Sheath Dress

7 - Watercolor Dress

8 - Ruffle Dress

Ever since I was 11, Easter has always been one of my favorite holidays because of the bright colors, pretty prints and the fact that I almost always got a new dress for church on Sunday.  I just realized that I haven't even begun to think about what I will wear this coming Easter but I after browsing through a variety of dresses, I am leaning towards ruffles and bright colors. 

Now I just need which brunch spot to wear my Easter best.... 

buy this banner here

And a very special hug and a squeeze to my girl Karli and the healthy (quick) delivery of her new baby boy Liam!  So happy for The Konings! 

Now I am just waiting for the 22nd and the arrival of little RJR...

Forever Frugal Friday: Hearty, Heart, Heart

Valentine's Day arrives this coming Monday, and although I have never been one to celebrate the holiday I do really enjoy all things heart shaped and any excuse to wear hearts is alright with me. 

Even if you don't have a valentine, why not treat the most important person (you) to something cute and festive?  Like the Heart Print Bag, Cozy Heart Socks, or the darling Heart Print Cardigan. 

To me Valentine's Day is about showing affection and appreciation for anyone in your life.  Plus who doesn't love the overload of pink and red hearts everywhere? 

Gift Guide #2 ~ Give the Gift of Gap & A Giveaway!

Having a hard time finding a present for your brother, niece, co-worker, girlfriend, or self?  I'm pretty sure if you head over to the Gap you will find something for all of the above.  They always have a great selection, affordable prices and incredible savings.  Below are some items I have on my Gap wish list...

Yes I am obsessed with sparkles.  This skirt is totally affordable for under $50 and I can't imagine any girl who wouldn't love to shine in this baby come NYE. 

Perfect for that secret Santa gift, this Glitter Wallet will keep your favorite ladies receipts and cards organized but she will look oh so stylish doing so. 

Since I was a wee little gal I have been obsessed with pink, and add a little sparkle and you pretty much can't go wrong in my eyes.  Perfect for your mom or sister, this Sequin Wrap Cardi adds a little glamour to whatever she may choose to wear.  In person it is oh so cozy and oh so pretty.

Currently on hold at the Gap in the Grove, these Black Wash Stirrup Legging Jeans are the perfect pant for the holidays as well as boots.  Best part for me is that they are available in three different lengths since no two gals are made the same.  The look of a jean with the feel of leggings, what a wonderful holiday treat. 

If you know of a gal with poor circulation in her feet like me, these Faux Fur Slipper Booties are just what the doctor ordered.  I am seriously contemplating buying these for myself as my feet are always SO cold at my parents house during the holidays.  Plus I love the little pom-poms on the side.  Cute and fun and perfect for snuggling by a fire.

'Tis the season to give back and by purchasing this FEED USA Canvas Tote  you aren't only being green, but you are also donating $5 towards food education in schools and America.  Perfect for the gal who always loves to give. 

Last but not least, a wicked IKAT Scarf is sure to please just about any lady in your life - perhaps even a design friend who you are just stumped about what to buy.  The colors and finish on this scarf are quality and will go with just about anything. 

And guess what my lovely readers....the peeps over at Brand About Town  and the Gap have graciously donated a pair of jeans to one lucky YBB reader. 

• All you have to do is pop over to the Gap, pick out the two items you are wishing for this holiday season.
• Leave a comment here at YBB sharing your wish lish items.  (Be sure to leave an email address that you can be contacted at should you win)
• I will select a random winner on Monday, December 20th at 4:00 PM PST. 
• This giveaway is open to US Residents only. 

Happy Wish List Shopping and Good Luck!

Forever Frugal Friday

I am in desperate need of some new "lady clothes" for work.  I have been trying to mix up what I already have with different scarves, jewelry or shoes which is great and all, but I really need to add some new pieces.  I would very much like to add this Satin Rose Print Dress into my collection.  I realize that it is a bit sheer, but that could easily be fixed with a simple slip.  I love the color and the little peep hole in the back.  Great as is with some pumps, or I could also easily add a cardigan and my own skinny black belt and boots to fancy it up. 

Forever Frugal Friday

This week marked the first week back to school for many peeps. For me it just meant more traffic on my way into the office as I pass three schools on my route to work. Although I don't get to invest in or sport a "first day of school" outfit, I can try to get more organized at my desk with some fun new "school supplies" or in my case, "office supplies" instead, all courtesy of Forever. 

My desk is dark and formal with a glass overlay.  It currently has all black office supplies from the phone, stapler and file holders.  I think this pink Gothic Paper Tray would add a nice touch of color to my otherwise dark desk.  Plus I love the detailing on the side, functional and fashionable.  Fabulous!

This Chic File Folder will have all the other girls jealous of how stylish my filing looks.  Perfect for transporting your documents from meeting to meeting and still looking chic.

You can't have the Gothic Paper Tray and skip out on the matching Three Sleeve Sorting Rack!  I use my current ugly sorting rack always and would really enjoy looking at something prettier on a daily basis.

Last but not least, I need this Crackled Metallic Notebook to take down notes at meetings, jot down important phone numbers and doodle whenever I am bored.  I love that it just adds a little pizazz to the everyday. 

Desperately Seeking Sully ~ Emersonmade

I have been a fan of Emersonmade for quite some time now and been meaning to share all her darling goods with you all.  I was reminded of my need to post this morning when I saw this darling Summer Clutch that is just SCREAMING my name. 

I need, need, need to own this clutch.  The size, color and flower are the perfect for the sunny days ahead. 

Another piece I am coveting is this Flower Chain necklace in White & Ivory.  The perfect piece to dress up the most basic outfit.  I love the way she is wearing it here (in fact I really want to replicate this look immediately) but am also imagining it with for work when I have to wear a suit.  Should help me stand apart from the rest!

And I really wish that I had planned my SATC 2 outfit better, as this Cheeky Dahlia would have been a great tribute to Carrie's revival of the bold flower accessory.  Again, Emerson's look here is spot on and exactly how I would want to wear it.  Although I am loving it worn below as well....

Another great way to bring fashion into the office!

On a random side note, I always think it is so funny how in blog-o-sphere often you are thinking (or working on) the exact same subject, topic, trend as someone else?  Happened to me today over at Jamie of all Trades (she also happens to be one of my favorite girls out there - so be sure to give her some love).  I guess great minds think alike and we are all thinking Emersonmade is pretty damn great!

Desperately Seeking Sully ~ Net-A-Porter Brights

Whenever I really want to torment myself with things that I cannot afford but would kill to own, I head over Net-A-Porter and browse away.  Lately I have been attracted to all things bright.  Perhaps it is all the gray in LA, or the rebellion against the nude and beige trend that looks awful on me.  Below are some pieces I would love to sport around town.

The pieces I want MOST is this hot ass Jimmy Choo Daphne Ponyskin Leather Clutch.  It is also available in pink, but as I have said before neon yellow is all I have eyes for.  This clutch is TDF!  It would be so hot with just a LBD or boyfriend jeans, a deep V-Neck and a blazer.  This statement piece is sure to get you noticed.  Major heart.

Oh Marc.  How you tempt me so.  This Marc Jacobs Jacquetta Stripe Dress is summer sherbet perfection. I want to belt it in the middle, pair it with some super high gold heels and head out on the town, I don't really care where.  Loves!

I scared to death of sharks, and cannot tell a lie that swimming in the ocean sometimes has me singing the theme song from Jaws in my head.  However, I think I would probably be okay wearing this Virginia Johnson Shark Print Merino Wool Scarf without any fear of being eaten alive. 

And if I were somehow lucky enough to go to a swanky party that required a swanky dress, this Versace Stretch Cotton Mini Dress is sure to get the job done.

What luxuries are you lusting for from Net-A-Porter?

Desperately Seeking Sully ~ Easter Best

Easter is one of my favorite holidays for many reasons, one which is the fact that I get to buy a new dress for Easter Sunday at Church. I am running majorly behind this year selecting a new one and am crossing my fingers I have better luck tomorrow. However, if money wasn't an object, Shopbop would easily cover my every desire for bright dresses. Here are a few I am eyeing....

I am sure you have figured out by now that I have a slight (who are we kidding) affection for yellow, and this Nanette Lepore Wind Swept Dress has me crushing hard. I love the bold metal against the pretty yellow. Kind of toughens it up a bit.

A little more casual but still darling is this Rachel Pally Drawstring Dress. I would love to make it a little dressier with some dramatic earrings and fabulous heels or pair it down with some strappy flat sandals and a denim jacket.

I am gaga for this vibrant pink little dress whose name speaks volumes itself. Rebecca Taylor's Versatile Dress is just that....versatile. Throw a cardigan and a belt around the waist and it's totes office appropriate. Once the sun sets and it's time to play, throw on your fanciest black pumps and a little statement jewelry here and there, and you really can go from day to night so easily.

I am still loving ruffles and the asymmetrical look, and think this Rebecca TaylorAsymmetrical Occasion Dress just screams to be seen at a fancy schmancy brunch in Malibu with an always full glass of Veuve in your hand. Big shades and hot man date are optional.

Shoshanna always makes the best fitting dresses (I am wearing one today) in the best colors. I normally shy away from orange or any hue close to it, but with a quick visit to Chocolate Sun I think I could easily sport this orange sherbet colored Strapless Dress to many different events this spring and summer.

The dress I am wishing the Easter Bunny delivers in my basket however is this Banded Strapless Dress from none other than Shoshanna. The color is the perfect shade of pink, and I love all the little pleating and details over the front and the subtle sweetheart neckline. This dress would also make a great wedding guest dress or a date night dress. I would curl my hair, throw on my fave new heels (thanks Mom & Dad) some great bangles and bold cocktail ring. Loves it!

I sadly will not be adding these dresses to my wardrobe anytime soon, but look forward to searching my favorite bargain stores for some close replicas. I think I may have been inspired for all of the dresses above by the gorgeous flowers I won in my work raffle. Nothing says spring like color!

(taken with my blackberry - not the best pic)

Holiday Dressin'

I would like to wear this Cynthia Rowley Asymmetrical Dress to a Holiday or New Years Eve party. Please and Thank You.

Pretty Much Perfect in Pink

I have a wedding to attend this coming August and am thinking that I just found my inspirational look...

{via}

Blake Lively attended the CFDA Fashion Awards wearing this sensational Michael Kors hot pink strapless dress and nude Loubies.

{via}

I am loving the bright pop of pink with her tan skin and simple styling of the dress. (Not to mention the incredible awesome addition of pockets!)

{via}

Also it just has to be said that her hair, clean makeup, and perfect tan are all complimented by her dazzling smile. I think Blake is just a total and complete knockout with a good head on her shoulders.

Now the quest for all of these items at a price I can afford...stay tuned!

Cynthia Vincent 12th Street Resort ’09 Collection

With my ticket purchased and my vacation request in at work, now comes the fun part (besides the actual vacation)…packing! I will be heading to Maui for what is sure to be an amazing wedding.

A few weeks ago, I was browsing the cute boutiques in Manhattan Beach with Cassie when we stumbled upon the amazing Strapless Long Dress with Jute by Cynthia Vincent dress below. We both fell in love instantly and as I continued to browse the store, realized that it was as if Cynthia Vincent heard a rumor I was heading to Hawaii and designed an entire collection that would fit my every Hawaiian need or desire. It is not very often that I find myself LOVING a designer’s entire collection, but Cynthia got the job done and done. My favorite pieces are below, and with any hope will go down a bit (a lot actually) before I board that jet.

(click to enlarge)

I love the simplicity of this collection. She chose a fantastic color palette and then jazzed up the dresses with the details. Dainty ribbon accents, twisted rope details and a pretty little belt to accentuate the waist.

The prints in this collection are glamorous and not to be confused with the likes of a typical Hawaiian print. The yellow dress has cute little fishes as the print and both of the black dresses would look hot in Hawaii or anywhere else you might need a little tropical love.

I must say, that when I heard Neon's were coming back, I got a bit nervous remembering my favorite kulats and hyper color t-shirts. However, the neon's this time are around are done right. Flirty, sassy and sexy and you are sure not to blend in with the crowd.

Now, if I can only find a way to make all these items mine……