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Simply a Giveaway by Simply Cindi

Happy Thanksgiving Eve ladies!  I wanted to share some good news about a wonderful giveaway by Simply Cindi.  Cindi has reached 100+ followers on her blog and wanted to thank everyone by hosting her first giveaway.  What is she giving away?  You have the choice of picking two (2) Anthropologie Alphabet Monogram Mugs in any letter that you want.  If you are interested in winning these mugs, please check out Simply Cindi’s awesome blog for the details.  Good Luck!


Another Sale Day

Happy Sale Day ladies!  I was good today; I didn't buy anything from this sale (yet).  Now, if something pops back up on my wish list, then that might be a different story.    I’m trying to stay out of the store for a couple of weeks because I have to start focusing on buying Christmas presents for my loved ones.  Luckily, I have picked up things here and there, but I’m not finished.  Let the holiday count down begin!  I have an old OOTD that I need to post.  These pictures were actually taken last week, but somehow I just never got around to posting them until just now.   Here is my OOTD.

Shirt – Banana Republic – Old ¾ Length Sleeve Jersey Knit
Skirt – Anthropologie – Laurenti Circle Skirt
Shoes – Gianni Bini – Old Peep-Toe Red Pump

miscellany monday

happy monday ladies (well, technically it's tuesdaybut oh well) – i’ve added my random ramblings to carissa’s miscellany monday party!  check out carissa’s blog here and join in on the fun. 

{one} oprah’s favorite things. omg ladies! i believe that this single entry says it all. i don’t know what to say about oprah’s favorite things.  i was in complete awe.  i didn’t have the pleasure of seeing friday’s episode, but i did see today’s episode.  i only have one word to describe the show – amazing.  this show in particular was a major surprise for all of her guests.  these particular guests thought they missed the favorite things episode because the show was taped right before them.  however, oprah wanted to honor these guest because they are everyday heroes.  so, for the first time and last time ever, oprah had two favorite things episodes.  how amazing is that?  i’m just  jealous that i didn’t get anything, but i’m happy that these gifts went to people who often do good things.

Fresh Picks to Follow: Lacing It Up

Hi ladies...I hope that you are having a wonderful weekend.  I had a pretty exhausting week at work and needed to blow of some steam Friday night.  So, I ended up going out and I neglected to post my Fresh Picks.  This week’s post is inspired by the Discovered Lace Dress (see below) that I tried on some time ago and I loved it.  I’m hopeful that I would be able to get it, if it becomes available again.  

Ultra feminine and easy to wear, LACE is one fall fashion trend that is affordable and works beautifully with some of the season’s more masculine trends, like loafers or oxfords.  It's a look that's sexy enough to wear on a first date, but it’s still sophisticated enough to wear in the office.  An easy way to incorporate lace into your wardrobe is to buy some lace tights and pair them with a pencil skirt or some booties.  Look below to see the many ways you can wear lace this fall.


1. Anthropologie - Mirabell Skirt…$118.00
2. Anthropologie - Discovered Lace Dress…$158.00
3. Free People – Lace Mock Neck Top…$58.00
4. Free People - Sahara Mock Neck Lace Top…$58.00
5. Anthropologie - Jumping Vines Leggings…$32.00
6. Ann Taylor Loft - Lace Scallop Dress…$98.00
7. Anthropologie – Spinning Lace Dress…$288.00
8. Bebe - Scalloped Lace Tee…$49.00
9. Johnathon Aston - Sweet Roses Lace Tights …$19.75 (buy here)
10. Smythe - Lace Henley…$295.00 (seen here on Kim Kardashian)   

Anthropologie's Holiday Book Drive

I was so happy to see another great community service project by Anthropologie.  Anthropologie is inviting customers to give the gift of reading to children in need during its Holiday Book Drive. The book drive provides an opportunity for customers to donate books through Reader To Reader, the designated non-profit organization (see here). Reader To Reader's book donation programs have donated more than 4 million books to schools, libraries and shelters.  In the alternative, Anthropologie is also providing customers the opportunity to donate a stuffed animal to a local children’s hospital. Let’s try to do our part and give back to the community this holiday season.

Sale - Shopping Overload

Hi Ladies…I hope that you all are having a great week so far.   I wanted to post my reviews from some of my online purchases.  My online shopping has gotten a little out of control, especially with the free shipping offer.  Last night I came home to all these boxes at my door. 


I was pretty excited about my orders until I tried everything on.  Below are some of the things that I have received so far.  You won’t believe that I’m still waiting on two other items to come in the mail….I know…yikes!  Here we go:

1.  I ordered the Seraphim Necklace in orange for $29.95.  I saw this necklace on one of the sales associates a few weeks ago and it looked amazing on her.  The colors are great for the fall season and it’s a piece that will carry over into other seasons.  I’ll be keeping this necklace.


2. I also ordered the Campaign Jacket in beige for $49.95 in a size small.  I saw this jacket on someone else’s wishlist, and added it to mine.  I have never seen the jacket on anyone, but I thought it was cute in the picture.  However, when I tried it on, I didn’t have the same thought.  Unfortunately, I plan on returning this one.


3. Next was the Camilla Dress in Blue for $69.95 in a size small.  I thought that this dress was gorgeous online.  The embroidery on the front and the back of the dress is so intricate and feminine.  The dress has a thin ribbon sash that ties in the back.  When I tried on this dress, I didn’t love the way it looked on me.  Unfortunately, I plan on returning this one too.


4. I also bought the Once & Always Tee in purple for $29.95 in a size small.  I really liked the look and feel of this shirt.  I wasn’t sure that I would like the ruffles, but it adds a romantic and classy look to the shirt.  The shirt is much more stunning on, than on the hanger.  The material of the body of the shirt is a little bit thin, so you’ll have to wear a natural color bra.  I waited for this one to go on sale and I finally got it.  I’ll be keeping this one.


5. The last item that I ordered was the Circle the Globe Skirt in navy for $39.95 in a size six (6).  I tried this skirt on in the store, but I missed out when it first went on sale.   I was able to purchase this one when it pop-backed up on my wishlist.  I love this look of this skirt – it’s not too poufy, but just enough flare.  This is a great skirt for summer and will transition nicely in into the fall and winter.  I highly recommend buying this skirt…obviously I’ll be keeping this one. 


My Shopping Bag at Anthro’s Sale

I don’t know what to say about this sale.  I was positive that I was going to sit this one out, but today’s sale got the best of me.  So, here are some pics of some of the things I bought today.     

I was so happy to find out that the Backlight Blouse went on sale today...woo hoo...only $39.95.  I love this top so much…I love the combination of the taupe dots against the black and the yellow-green sash.  I'm 5'7", 145 lbs, 34B with a short torso. This tops stays perfectly in place and doesn't droop down like many strapless tops. The size four worked out perfect for me.  The top is more fitted and has some light plastic boning to give it some structure, slightly cinched at the waist then flares out slightly at the bottom.  Just perfect!


I also found an Odille Look Sharp Tunic in green for $9.95.  I had to buy it just because of the price and it looked good on me too. 


I also bought a few tights too; opaque tights in the light denim for $4.95, a lace/floral printed tights and antique rose openwork tights for $9.95 each.  I didn't do too bad today, but there will be another post soon with some of my online purchases.


How To Dress For Your Body Type: The Pear

So, I took Jenny’s challenge (see here) regarding posting about my body type.  Hopefully, this post will be helpful to other ladies that have difficultly finding the right clothes that fit your body type.

The “Pear” is one of the most common shapes among women and is characterized by being bottom-heavy, meaning the butt, thighs and hips are significantly larger than the bust. Other physical characteristics that are typical is that the waist is small as well as the bust and shoulders. 

To confirm that you have a pear shaped body, check out the list below: 
  • Pear shapes usually have a bottom heavy shape;
  • a thin and slender neck;
  • a narrow or sloping shoulders;
  • larger and more generous lower hips and thighs; and
  • I also found online that another way to figure out the body type is to measure the bust, hips, and waist. A pear body type has a hip/waist greater than 1.25 and a waist/bust ratio greater than .75.
When I was younger, I just played with my clothes to figure out what looked best on me.  As I got older and after some research, I learned that I was a pear shape.  At that time, I decided to embrace the opportunities to emphasize my neck, shapely shoulders, slim arms, and defined waist. One thing that I learned is that I had to work with my heavier bottom half to get an all-over balanced outfit.  You will often find me in strapless shirts or dresses, tank tops, dark-colored pants, and any dress or skirt with an A-line fit. 

Having a pear shaped body is not a bad thing. There are many celebrities that are pear shaped like Kristen Davis, Tyra Banks, Rihanna, Shakira, Beyonce, and more.  


The key is learning how to dress for your body type. What should pear-shaped women wear to look balanced? Here are some wardrobe tips that will be helpful for any pear shape:

Shirts:  Find shirts with the following elements:

  • Choose a shirt that will draw the eye to the shoulders: Wide necklines, such as boatneck, scoopneck and strapless styles, can widen the shoulders and balance your bottom half.   I also enjoy wearing tank tops with the right accessories, such as a scarf or chunky jewelry.
  • Look for waist-defining details in your tops, such as belted or cinched styles that show off your defined waist.
  • Any top that cinches at the high point of the waist, just under the chest—will bring all the best parts about your unique shape.
  • Shirts that draw attention to the face are welcome. Look for buttons or ties at the neck that will draw eyes upwards.
  • Plus-size women should stay away from baggy shirts. Don't hide your shape with loose tees!
  • If the stomach is flat, then a sexy, cropped top will also help the bottom half of the body look more balanced. Please only wear a cropped top if the stomach is flat and athletic looking.
Jackets and Blazers:

  • Try to find a jacket or blazer with puffed sleeves; it will help broaden the shoulders to bring balance to the bottom part of the body.
  • Avoid wearing jackets and blazer that hits the widest point of your hips or the end of your bum.  It will draw more attention to your lower half.   Try to find a jacket or blazer that hits your hipbones.
Dresses:

  • A useful tip on how to dress for a pear shaped body is defining the waist. It provides an hourglass shape for your body. Wear a waist-defining dress that merely skims your hips or balloons out from the waist to hide a heavy bottom…like wrap dresses or belted dresses.
  • Be careful wearing empire waist dresses.  An empire waist at knee-length is could be a good look for a cocktail party such as the classic black below.
  • No full and clingy dresses.
Sliming Bottoms:

  • Low-rise pants, boot-cut pants and jeans best compliment the proportion.
  • Flared pants that skim the fullest part of the body then flare out to the bottom hem. Dark colors will help slim.
  • No tapered trousers, the ideal pants for this body shape hit on the hips and are snug in the rear, but wide at the thigh and leg.
  • Look for pants with no pockets on the rear.
  • When choosing denim, consider the wash, jeans that are lighter in the middle of the thighs and darker on the outsides.
  • Look for a waistline on your skirt that hits slightly below the natural waistline. Without extra layers close to the smallest part of your waist, you can make it look smaller and your torso a little longer.
  • Get skirts with a slight A-line cut. They will skim over problem areas and smooth the hip and thigh.
Accessories:

  • The best way to bring attention away from the lower part of the body is to draw it up to the face. Wear bold, big accessories near the face, such as chunky necklaces, large earrings, and scarves.
  • Because the bust line is usually small, a push up bra is always a good option. Push up bras will give a good lift and add a little extra padding to the bust, helping to balance as well as draw attention
  • Lengthen and slim your legs with a pair of heeled shoes. Heavier style heels which are not stilettos will balance out your calves.
  • Avoid shoes with ankle straps or t-strap styles, which can make your legs look larger.
Clothes to Avoid:

  • A key thing to avoid is to never accessorize the fullest part of the body. Stay away from prints, especially large and/or bold bright prints. Prints and bright colors will draw attention to the bottom half of the body.
  • Skinny jeans are also a problem for bottom-heavy shapes. Again, it will accentuate the curve at the hips, thighs and butt. With the pants being tight at the feet it will make the body look like a big upside down triangle. As much as I love the look of skinny jeans, I have to be cautious when it comes to these jeans.  I found a pair that I think works, but I don't wear them often.
DISCLAIMER: This is just a general idea of the shape and specifically, my body type.

Fitting Room Reviews – Look Back and Phlox & Coral

I went to the Anthropologie store in the Mall of Millenia in Orlando, FL for the first time and I had a blast.  It's always fun to see how different each of the Anthro stores set up their merchandise and displays.  I only tried on a few things and I was able to snag the Culmination Blouse in a 4 (see here).  My store sold out of these really quickly.  Here are my reviews.

1. Look Back Sweater Dress…$138.00



I tried this dress on today in the store and absolutely fell in love with it.  The small fit me perfectly (for reference, I usually wear a size 4 or 6 dress and a size 6 skirt). I tried on the purple dress, which is a rich, deep color; the dress also comes in gray.   The material is high quality merino wool that is lightweight and allows for a beautiful drape.  This dress is form fitting like a sheath dress, but it is not extremely clingy.  The neck line is beautiful and the gathered fabric is just the right touch.   My favorite part of the dress is the deep v back and the exposed back zipper…it’s very flattering.   I didn’t try this dress on with a belt, but a belt would be a great accessory to add to change the look.  This dress would be perfect for my work wardrobe.  I’ll mostly buy this dress in the near future.

2. Phlox & Coral Coat…$288.00



I love, love, love this coat.  Tracey Reese has done it again…she designed a gorgeous piece of art. It is structured well and the fabric is very sturdy.  This coat couldn’t be used up North as a winter coat, but it’s perfect for me here in Florida.  The coral accents and lining is just as stunning as the buttons.  I tried this on in the 4 and the 6 and the 4 worked perfectly for me.   I have been eyeing this coat for sometime, and I hope to buy it when it gets marked down.   I’m just hoping that Anthro will have my size available when the time comes.

Fresh Picks to Follow: Sweater Dresses

Hi ladies…I hope that you all had a great week.  I was lucky to have a 3-day work week.  I took the liberty of taking the day off today to have a shopping day with my sister in Orlando, FL.  And boy did we shop.  Among with my many purchases, I inadvertently bought several sweater dresses today without realizing it.  When I got home, I thought that my new additions would make a great fresh pick topic. 

The original sweater dress was nothing more then a tube shaped knit and was a nightmare for a woman with any degree of curves. Today, they come in a wide range of styles to suit virtually any figure type.  A classic sweater dress makes the perfect blank canvas; which is versatile enough to be dressed up or down. Once you've found the perfect fit pick a neutral tone or a color that compliments your coloring, then consider the following tips:

Tights:  A sweater dress looks great with tights or leggings, but can also be worn with bare legs. If the dress is a neutral color, you can opt for colorful tights to add a pop of color or wear the same color tights for a more sophisticated look.

Belts: If the dress is a chunky and you want to ensure that it doesn’t look like a sack, then add some definition to your look with a wide belt around your natural waist.

Shoes: When matching footwear with a sweater dress, stick to shoes that are structured. Anything too delicate, like kitten heels, will not compliment the look. Try all types of boots, pumps, wedges and ballet flats.  A sweater dress is the perfect outfit to pair with ankle boots, which is a great look for the season. Remember: if you have shorter legs, choose a pair of tights that matches the color of your boots. 

Other Accessories: Structured and bold accessories tend to look stunning with sweater dresses. Chunky jewelry, like long dangly necklaces and wide bangles, will make the right statement with any sweater dress. Scarves are always a perfect addition to a sweater dress, as well as, layering a jacket or cardigan.  A quick side note, a belted cardigan will add a bit more warmth and create a different silhouette your sweater dress. 

Here are several sweater dresses that's caught my eye.  Let me know what you think and if you have bought a sweater dress lately.


1. Anthropologie - Finessed Sweaterdress…$138.00
2. Old Navy - Women's Boat-Neck Sweater Dresses…$34.50
3. Banana Republic - Funnel Neck Cable Tunic…$110.00
4. BCBGMAXAZRIA – Cowl-Neck Sweater Dress…$138.00
5. H&M - Roll-Neck Jumper…$34.95
6. French Connection - Everyday People Dress…$89.00 (Bluefly.com price)
7. Ann Taylor - Scoopneck Ribbed Sweater Dress…$128.00
8. BCBGMAXAZRIA - Blue Wool Striped Turtleneck Sweater Dress…$154.00 (Bluefly.com price)
9. Ann Taylor Loft - Fair Isle Cowl Tunic Sweater…$79.50
10. Anthropologie - Look Back Sweater Dress…$148.00

A Warm and Cozy Sale

Whew! I think my wallet is safe this week.  So, there was a small sale today with lots of sweaters.  I was able to resist purchasing anything today and I plan on sticking to that plan.  I recently moved into my apartment and I took a little break from furnishing and decorating my place.  So, know I have to take a break from Anthro shopping, just for a little while.  We'll see how long that lasts.   Happy Shopping ladies!

miscellany monday

happy monday ladies – i’ve added my random ramblings to carissa’s miscellany monday party!  check out carissa’s blog below and join in on the fun. 

{one}time change. i don’t know about you guys, but i’m happy to have gained an extra hour of sleep.  i’m not loving the fact that it’s pitch black outside at 6pm, but i love my sleep. 

{twomonday night football.  anyone that knows me knows that i love football.  i look forward to football season and i’m always pretty sad to see the season end.  i prefer college football over nfl, but i watch it and enjoy it all.  the florida gators are my favorite college team and philadelphia eagles and green bay are my favorite nfl teams.  and since i live in florida i usually root   i usually work on the weekends, so i can’t always catch the games.  however, i’m always able to catch some monday night football.  who’s playing tonight? its steelers vs. bengals….i’m pretty sure that the steelers will take it home, but you never know.  i usually root for the underdog when it’s not my team…so it will be interesting if bengals pull out a win tonight. 

{threeanthropologie sale.  so…i wonder if anthro is going to have a sale tomorrow now that there is free shipping.  i’ve already taken advantage this offer one time so far…i’m sure that there will be more shipments to come.  yikes!

{fourveterans day.  if you are like me, you may know someone who is currently serving or who has previously served in the military.  in september, my brother-in-law left for afghanistan for 1 year, leaving my sister, my 2 nieces and nephew waiting patiently for his return.  it was so hard to see the little ones so sad and confused.  i was just telling my boyfriend, that we should do so much more to show our appreciation for our troops.  with that being said, i wanted to share some information regarding amazing discounts and freebies for our troops:

  1. applebees  all veterans and active duty military eat free from a limited menu at applebee's on nov. 11. simply show proof of service or arrive wearing a uniform.
  1. golden corral for the 10th year in a row, golden corral restaurants will offer their military appreciation monday dinner. the event is scheduled this year from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m. on nov. 15. all personnel are welcome, including retirees, veterans, active duty, national guard and reserves.
  1. mccormick & schmuck's seafood restaurants  for the 12th year running, participating restaurants in the national seafood chain offer a complimentary entree to vets from a special menu. space is limited so online reservations are strongly recommended.
  1. outback steakhouse veterans and active-duty military receive a free “bloomin' onion” and non-alcoholic beverage on veterans day at participating outback steakhouses.
  1. subway  some subway restaurants are distributing free six-inch subs to veterans or active-duty members on veterans day. make sure you call ahead because not all franchises are participating in this event.
  1. uno chicago grill show up on veterans day in uniform, with a photo of yourself in uniform or with a military or veteran's i.d. and receive a free entree or individual pizza, with an entree or pizza purchase of equal or greater value.
grab the button, write random and link up here!

Fresh Picks to Follow: Jackets and Vests

Hi ladies…I hope that you all are enjoyed your weekend.  Unfortunately, I had to work all weekend, so it wasn’t so great for me.  I didn’t have a chance to post my fresh picks on Friday, so here it is…I’m such a slacker. 

I thought it would be fitting to post about Fall jackets and vests, since the weather has finally changed here in Florida.  On Thursday, the weather dropped down to the late 40s…that’s pretty cool for Florida living. 

So ladies, it’s time to break out your best fitting jackets and layer them over a blouse or thin sweater (if you haven’t done so already).  You can pair a great tailored jacket with everything from menswear-inspired trousers to skirts to jeans and you’re all set.  A jacket adds structure to your figure: (1) it gives curvy girls more angular lines, (2) it creates waistlines for boyish figures, or (3) it evens out lumps and bumps for all shapes.  If you decide to purchase a fall jacket, then pick traditional fabrics like tweed, plaids, corduroy, denim, velvet, or leather. 

Here are some of my top 10 favorite styles to inspire you this Fall.  Do any of these styles fit into your personal style?  Have you purchased a jacket or vest lately?  Let me know what’s your favorite jacket or vest…either old or new. 


1. Coach - Kaitlin Quilted Jacket…$398.00
2. Anthropologie - Foliage Finder Jacket…$148.00
3. Anthropologie - Oxer Jacket…$158.00
4. Banana Republic - Tabbed Military Sweater Jacket…$110.00
5. JCrew - Belstaff® Roadmaster Jacket…$595.00
6. Anthropologie - Falling In Love Vest…$118.00
7. Anthropologie - Tulip Curtsy Blazer…$118.00
8. Banana Republic – Classic Trench…$198.00
9. Anthropologie - All Along Knit Jacket…$88.00
10 Anthropologie - Autumn Honey Jacket…$298.00

Oh Boy…Another Great Sale!

Well ladies…I must say that today’s sale did not disappoint.  Anthro is making it really hard for me to stay away this week.  It’s especially hard when you don’t have any will power.  I didn’t have a chance to post earlier about the sale, but you can check out Roxy’s blog over at Effortless Anthropologie to see everything that got marked down today.  Roxy’s followers also help each other out with hard to find items…it’s a great tool!  If I change my mind and decide to buy something, I’ll let you all know!  Happy Shopping!

miscellany monday


{one}halloween. i hope that everyone had a happy halloween yesterday.  i didn’t dress up yesterday but i dress up for a party on saturday.  did you guys dress up?  if so, describe your costume.  i was a tiger…well a lazy tiger.  i say lazy tiger because i wore all black and put on some tiger ears and a tiger tail.  i drew on some whiskers on my face and heavy eye make-up.  i thought i looked pretty cute.  i had to work yesterday so i missed all of the little trick or treaters L i really would have liked to  see some of the kids’ great costumes.

{twothe holidays already?  i was in target on friday looking for a halloween costume and i noticed that some christmas decorations are already up.  i was so focused on halloween - it was kind of weird to see a few christmas trees and various trimmings.  i can’t wait until the holiday season starts – i actually love it.  however, i do work retail so the holiday hours are not fun

{threegossip girl.  i don’t know what it is about this show, but it’s one of my favorite shows out there right now.  are there any other gossip fans out there?  let me know your favorite episode and who’s your favorite character.  my favorite episode is “last tango, then paris" and i really like blair.  even though some may say that blair is a little annoying and even pretentious,  she has a lot of style and spunk.   today’s episode was pretty predictable – of course we all knew they would get back eventually. 

{fourfeatured artist: robyn.  if you watched gossip girl, then you heard robyn’s song…“hang with me.”  what did you think? if you didn’t watch the show, then  check out her video here it’s a pretty good song….i love it when tv shows feature new artists.  she also sings “dancing on my own”…which is also another good song.  some of you may remember this swedish artist when she sang “show me love” in the early 90s.   

{fivenew camera.  i really want to buy a new camera…either a nikon d3000 or a canon rebel eos.  i just have to save up a little bit more money to buy one of these lovelies.  i’m hoping to get one of them over the holidays, but that means i’ll have to slow down my shopping sprees at anthropologie.  i also have to do some research about both of these cameras – which one is the better camera?  once i do my research, i’ll share with you all.
{sixanthropologie sale.  so even though i just previously wrote that i needed to slow down with my anthro shopping, i’m curious to see what’s going to be on sale tomorrow.  i’m limiting myself to only one item tomorrow….let’s see how that goes.

grab the button, write random and link up here!

happy monday ladies – here are my random ramblings for today.  check out carissa’s blog below and join in on the fun.

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