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!

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!

Bikini Bonanza

yesterday i sported a bikini at the pool.  while my body still isn't quite where i would like for it to be, it's getting closer and while i love my little mix and match bikini i threw together, i noticed some darling bikinis around the pool which had me thinking i may need to upgrade to something a little more fun.

my absolute fave is this modern amusement stripe push up sweetheart bikini.  love the red, love he navy, love the stripes and the pop of yellow.  also love the models body...

i know sequins by the pool is a little glitzy and rhooc, but these victoria secret bikinis have me rethinking my view on sequins by the pool.  specifically the abbie sequin stripe triangle bikini and the sequined waterfall triangle bikini that belongs on a yacht in the french riveria.  yes please!

a good bandeau never hurt anybody and definitely provides the most friendly tan lines.  you can't go wrong with a simple gorgeous aqua belle bandeau bikini that literally looks good on anyone with a tan!  or root for team usa in all your stars and stripes in the americana bandeau bikini that is far more chic and a lot less budweiser girl than other red, white and bikinis i have seen.

what's your favorite swimwear?  do you have suit that you absolutely adore? 

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

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)

Desperately Seeking Sully ~ Neon Yellow

I saw this scarf on the JCrew website and knew it was a piece I just have to add to my spring wardrobe. I mean who wouldn't smile wearing this guy or seeing someone else wearing it?

I am also kind of dying to own this neon stripedSplendid tank.

This picture does not do justice to how bright the yellow is, and every time I walk past it at Macy's I give that top another longing glance.

Anyone else craving neon's?

Happy Weekend!

photo by the incredible Natalie Moser

This weekend has lots of celebrations in store! Tonight, I am off to wish my girl Ronit the best of birthday wishes on Melrose. Then of to Palos Verdes for Felicity & Shane's nuptials. I am so excited for this lovely pair to tie the knot and know it is going to be a sensational time (pictures to follow I promise).

May you all have the loveliest of weekends full of happiness and love!

XO

Summer Essential Series ~ P.S.

Today's picks are from the lovely Michelle over at P.S.. Michelle is another fun friend that I met at WSU who always can make me laugh and keep me in high spirits with her positive attitude and mad recapping skills (seriously incredible). I love checking out her blog for amazing sunsets from her cute new apartment and giggles here and there. Below are her summer must haves!

*What one item can you not be without in the summer?

Capri Blue-Volcano: I love the way my apartment smells like I am on a tropical island!

*What are you craving for summer 2009?

I am still rocking the Maxi dress this summer, they are so cute and comfy! I am definitely craving and would love to own this cute yellow one from JCrew.

*What is your essential summer song for 2009?

My summer song is definitely Right Round by Flo Rida!!!!

I am loving all of your choices Michelle! I have seen that candle every time I am in Anthro and have never actually purchased it, but you may have just sold me on it! And that JCrew dress is incredible and would look lovely on you! Check back tomorrow for Sweet Nothings selections.

Still Thinking...

About these damn Balenciaga A-Line Platform Pumps...and wishing that I had a spare $1100 laying around.

*sigh*

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……

Off to San Diego....

photo by Shelby Nycole

For what is sure to be an incredibly romantic, dreamy and fun wedding! Here's a sneak peek of Shelby's glorious shoes...more pics to follow! Have a dreamy weekend!

Forever Frugal Friday: BBQ Style

I just love me some summer time BBQ’s! I am off this weekend, with hubby in tow to Simi Valley for some BBQ, beers and friends. The perfect way to spend a Saturday if you ask me. I think the outfit above is the perfect attire for a BBQ at a decent price! Keep it causal and cool in these Leyna Cuffed Short Length Demin Shorts and Country Plaid Woven Shirt . Throw on these comfy Forever 21 Flip Flops and the Oversized Hoop Earrings and you my friends will be chillin’ (since your outfit was under $48), while everyone else is grillin’.

Have a fabulous weekend!!!

Bridesmaid Dress: Gossip Girl Style

I recently caught up on my Gossip Girl episodes and squealed with joy when I saw Serena walk down the aisle of her mothers wedding in this beautiful number. It was a dress to reckon with. Ruffles, yellow, floral, black gloves, and a sexy peep hole. Perfection in every way. Well guess what! Start scouring your couch cushions now, cause the dress is on sale right now at Ralph Lauren for a measly $2999!

The Ralph Lauren Ruffled Fillipa Dress is definitely a piece I covet and don't expect to be finding at my local TJ Maxx anytime soon. I sometimes like to play the game, if I had unlimited funds...well if I had unlimited funds, this dress would definitely be in my closet for my next social function. I can't wait to see what fashions next season will bring us!

Yellow Wedding Board

Another beautiful, inspiring wedding board from Style Me Pretty designed by the ever talented folks at Lucky Me . This board has me reliving our wedding day and also looking forward to Shelby's upcoming wedding that will be bright and sunny just like this board. Might I mention that I am totally in love with the eyelet wedding dress? Gorgeous. Can I please do it all over again for free?!

Popsicle Inspired

Soapsicles by Soapylove , Dress by Insight

Insight must have been hungry when they designed the Sugar Hill Dress. Beautifully bright and blended this dress will have you craving a popsicle all day long. If you aren't one to blend in with the rest, then this is the dress for you!

I had seen the dress in the pink and blue combo above on Urban Outfitters online, but did not see it there today, so perhaps check at an actual store. I must also point ya'll to Soapylove's Etsy shop, which is full of cute creations that look good enough to eat.

These handmade soaps would make great gift adornments and also look adorable at your summer house in the bathroom. Regardless of how you use them, they are candy for your eye and these dresses are sure to be candy for someone eyes.

Love It!

After my coworker returned from lunch to inform me that Banana Republic was having a sale, I quickly searched the sale online. The piece I am coveting...this gorgeous Yellow Bead Necklace (also available in white) for a steal at $22.99. A great piece to add to a white button down or jazz up a simple dress for summer. In anycase I am pretty sure I am ordering it online right now :)

Tie One On....

Nicole left me a wonderfully sweet comment regarding our wedding pics and inquired about where we found Elon's tie for the wedding. Finding the perfect yellow tie is quite difficult I came to find out. I checked Thomas Pink, J Crew, Banana Republic and Bloomingdale's all without luck. One last stop into Brooks Brothers turned out to be the winner!

I purchased the Awning Stripe Tie in yellow for $75.00 and was happy to find a tie we both loved that matched our theme and colors. I see now on their website that yellow no longer available in this particular tie but I would suggest checking the store in person if you have one close by as they carried many colors I didn't find online.

UPDATE:
Kelly over at A Little Of This...A Little Of That found a very similiar looking tie at Target! A much better price and a great piece you can get it here. Thanks Kelly!

Forever Frugal Friday

It's too bad I didn't see this sweet Yellow & Ivory Nautical Tote Bag before my rehearsal dinner or you better have believed these bags would have doubled as gift bags. The perfect bag for the beach, boat, road trip or in my case bridesmaid gift bag. Easily roomy enough to fit your latest trashy romance novel, some water, a towel and some SPF.

If you are lucky enough to be getting away for Memorial Weekend somewhere sunny, this bag is a must have and comes in a variety of colors. I am thinking of picking one up in hopes that the sun will come out tomorrow.