Ruffled Up

So the title of my post sums up my day earlier today and the past week.  My job has become very hectic and challenging since the beginning of last week.   My work days are starting earlier and earlier and my evenings are ending later than I would like.  Today, I wanted to try to make myself feel a little better so I pulled out this jacket for the first time.  I love the ruffles on this beauty; it’s the perfect statement piece.

Anthropologie – Terrace House Jacket
Ann Taylor Loft – Sleeveless Boatneck Sweater
The Limited – Lexie Fit Pants

Nine West – Black Ankle Boots

Did any of you ladies buy anything during Anthro’s sale today?  I’m trying to be good and refrain from shopping.  So, I’m sitting this one out.  I did a little too much damage last month and my wallet needs a break.   Check out Anthro's newest markdowns here.  Happy Shopping!

DIY: Knitting 101

I taught myself to knit in 2005 with the help of a couple knitting books and online videos.  I decided that I wanted to expand my blog and share my needlework with all of you.   I thought that this would be a fun way to let people know what I’m working on.  I enjoy using all sorts of knitting and sewing tools, patterns, and yarns.  I also enjoy the process of creating handmade items that create style, comfort, and warmth for both the home and individuals.

Unfortunately, I only know how to make scarves and baby blankets.  I currently consider myself a knitting novice.  Even though I started this hobby a few years ago, I stopped knitting for about 3 years when I went to graduate school.  I have started many projects, but I haven’t finished them.  My hope is to learn more difficult knitting techniques and finish the projects that I previously started.  I also hope to inspire other women to start a new craft.  I plan on letting you all know about some of the projects that I’m working on and then post my finished projects for you all to see.

I mentioned in one of my earlier posts that I was knitting a scarf for my sister as one of her Christmas presents.  However, I didn’t get it finished in time.  In fact, I’m kind of still working on it.  I’m using my last ball of yarn, so I should be able to post the finished product real soon.  In the meantime, here is a picture of what it’s supposed to look like.

Please check out the “Do It Yourself” page for video links if you are interested in learning how to knit.

Fresh Picks to Follow: Polka Dot, Dot, Dot

Ever since I was a little girl, I’ve always loved polka dots.  Not only are polka dots fun, feminine and whimsical, but there is also something sort of 50’s glam about them.  You have to agree that polka dots can hardly be called a trend since every year they get reinvented with a funky and playful twist.  

Did you know that the polka dots trend has been influenced by lady bugs, which in increasingly popular in both the spring and summer?  I’ve also noticed that some of the major designers are using polka dots for their upcoming Spring/Summer 2011 collections.   

Style Tip: Polka dots can be tricky to wear, so be cognizant of your proportions and to the size of the dots.  Smaller dots seem to be the ultimate solution if you wish to visually polish your figure and get rid of the visible beauty flaws. However, larger spots create a bulky and more prominent effect.  Therefore, if you are not totally pleased with your body shape, then skip the large dots.

Polka dots are among the timeless designs used to decorate dresses, pants and other clothing items.   Please check out my top 10 polka dot designs below.  Let me know what you think about the polka dot phenomenon and Anthropologie’s new polka dot items. 

1. White House Black Market - Tiered Polka Dot Skirt…$88.00

2. The Limited - Printed Dot Strapless Dress…$98.00

3. White House Black Market – Pin Dot Tight…$15.00

4. Ann Taylor - Polka Dot Shirt Dress…$138.00

5. Anthropologie - Across The Land Dress…$138.00

6. Anthropologie - On The Agenda Shell…$88.00

7. Anthropologie - Take Action Dress…$168.00

8.  L.L. Bean - Bean's Buckle-Toe Skimmers…$39.99

9. Anthropologie - Freckled Blouse…$98.00

10. Tracy Reese -   Crimson Dots Jersey Prim Shirt Dress…$268.00