Is It February Yet - What I Wore

My Fall wardrobe essentials of late...

• Long & Chunky Scarf
• Leather
• Leopard
• Leggings
• Motorcycle Boot

Despite popping Airborne on a regular basis and drowning my organs with water, the minute I forget that everyone at work is throwing around their germs like a game of catch and leave my meds at my parents I wake up stuffy and foggy.  Now I'm trying to nurse myself back since I cannot afford to show to work on any level less than completely prepared. Its crunch time now as we put the final touches on the holiday set ups, organizing stock rooms for quick and easy fill ins for sales associates and making note of what we are still missing.  Stepping in for my manager has already proven to be quite challenging from dealing with a dwindling staff (if you don't want to work please don't waste my time....seriously there are people who actually need jobs and want them), to brand reps (I'm sorry you are paid to believe that your brand is the best and I don't doubt that the revamp will be successful but right now in my store it's just not the focus and the numbers reflect it so no you can't get the number one location during the holiday season.....) to still trying to actually accomplish something by the day's end.  Although now February can't arrive fast enough I know this is the kind of experience I need to not only move forward but to be able to successfully run my own store one day which is the ultimate goal so I guess I shouldn't complain too much....LOL

On a much happier note I finally wore my leather vest.  This leather vest was one of the first purchases I made over 4 years ago when I started my job and it was one of those amazing deals you just have to celebrate.  It was originally $200 or a bit more and I grabbed it for $50.  Its real leather, has a moveable trim thanks to the wire built in so you can mold it into a peplum if you'd like and it has a removable hood.  I did wear it once or twice that first year but haven't put it on since...until recently. I wore it out to my first appointment in the search for my wedding dress and the funny thing is my friend ended up wearing it more than I did.  She didn't want to take it off and it seems to be a reoccuring trend with her and my mom trying to steal some of things....I am on constant watch as they are both pretty crafty.

In all the wedding excitement and constant inspiration hunting that also seems to consume so much of time, I have decided to start a new blog (YAYYY!!!!) 

Its called The Awkward Bride (check it out HERE) and it is basically my wedding diary to rant and gush on my different experiences.  I would love it if you guys checked it out but don't worry I won't forget about Naughty Baubles.

The Weekenders - What I Wore

Quick escape out of town this weekend to celebrate the beginning of fall. Luckily I stopped by H&M and snagged some sweaters because despite the clear skies and bright sun, the breeze off the water was definitely brisk.  I'm really interested in cozy dressing right now so printed leggings and oversized sweaters have been in heavy rotation. I beg you not to call me lazy but with the pumpkin spice lattes now available and all the September mags stacking up, my body just wants curl up and get lost in glossy pages.

Anywho, everytime we go to Newport I always discover something new Ans this time it was an incredible spice, sugar and tea store. Not only did it fit perfectly with my hibernation state of mind but it happened to be exactly what I was in search of for the wedding. And on that note I am officially going for a vineyard wedding. The venue idea has been quite a debate and after tossing up a few ideas me and the Guy have finally settled. Now I just have to find one that's not already booked....LOL

Hope your Monday is going well and here's to the weekend!!!!

Like A Doll - What I Wore

Skater Dress - H&M (similar dress HERE), Belt - Vintage, Earrings - Naughty Baubles (buy HERE), Shoes - H&M, Bracelet - Vintage

Having bought this dress a few weeks before we left for Newport and never once taking it out of the bag, I figured vacation would be an excellent chance to either wear it or return it.  I had been searching high and low for a skater dress after seeing Karen of Where Did U Get That rock a leopard version (see it HERE) and after a few unsuccessful fitting room adventures I found one with a perfect fit and length.  The only problem was the color....I wasn't quite sold.  However after pairing it with a vintage belt given to me by Great Aunt, my new favorite stud earrings that I made and prancing around all day I have to say I'm glad I caved in and bought it.  

****Call Me Kitty - What I Wore

Blouse - H&M, Shorts - Bar III, Necklace - Naughty Baubles, Bag - RACHEL Rachel Roy, Bracelet/Ring - Vintage, Shoes - H&M

I couldn't stop wearing these two pieces over vacation.  The leopard print blouse is absolutely perfect.  A bit oversized and pretty sheer, this was a last minute by before we left and I'm glad I snagged it.  As for the shorts I've been eyeing them for a while at my job and then finally they went down so I new I had to grab them fast.  With 85 degree weather and some pretty humid days, this combo worked so well for in keeping me cool.  Plus it worked weather we went to the beach, went for a walk or a boat ride (all of which we did this day to be exact).  The shorts also come in a cool large scale floral print and I'm contemplating whether or not I need those two...guess we'll just have to see.

On a completely separate note can I just give these flats a round of applause. Not only did they last the entire trip but we walked at least 15 miles (although my fiance swears it was much more than that) the whole week with part of that including some light rock climbing. Plus I never slipped getting on or off the boats.  Completely thrilled about that...LOL

****Pastels and Parties - What I Wore****

Cropped Sweater - H&M (Similar HERE and HERE), Sheer Aqua Shorts - H&M (Similar HERE and HERE), Necklace - Naughty Baubles, Wedges - Steve Madden "Winery"

So the weekend was a change from the usual pace.  It started with dinner out with family and friends, about midway through it I had the pleasure of escorting a 2yr old to the beach who informed me I could not tell her what to do (in the most certain and polite way possible it was too cute) and found myself using the age old tactic of bribery (and to think I said I would never use it with my own kids but its looking like when the family does start I will be right along with most other parents), and ended with me in less than pleasant circumstances after a night of partying. After taking Sunday off to recoup and work on Monday, I find myself with today off and not to much on my plate...except for buying a new lamp for the bedroom, that's a priority. 

Anywho, I've been really good with shopping yet again making sure that whatever I get works with what I have and so last week after constantly complaining about needing another pair of flowy short (I can't wear my blue dotted ones everytime) I came across these sheer aquamarine colored ones at H&M.  The only size left was a bit to big to wear on high on my waist so I ended up having to pin it with a safety till I can take it in.  They were just too cute to let go and I desperately wanted to wear them so I made it work. 

On the wedding planning bit, I mentioned on twitter that I was pretty sure I found my colors but outside of my bouquet I'm not sure how to incorporate them all.  Realizing how expensive all the magazines are and ignoring my urge for tangible inspiration, I've really scoured the web day in and day out pinning any and everything that interests me.  After taking a look over the images its pretty apparent that I'm swaying towards a vintage-esque wedding which happens to be pretty huge trend right now.  I'm just really trying to figure out how to translate that into something more personal.  Luckily I have some really great help so I know no matter what the wedding is going to be great.  

Hopefully your weekend was just as fun and here's to the next one in 3 days....

****Snapshots and Color Palettes - What I Wore****

OUTFIT DETAILS: Aviators - Vintage (From Grandpa :-)), Tank Top - H&M, Shorts - Forever 21, Clutch - R & Em, Shoes - Fendi

Just a few more snapshots from this weekend.  Outside of the practicing my beach whale I did manage to narrow down on some possible color stories for the wedding.  I constantly find myself dumbfounded at how extremely excited I am. Its all I talk about with my best friend and between Soul Caliber battles and People's Court episodes, its all about Say Yes To The Dress and The Knot.  What a girl..huh?? Anywho, I'll share some of my ideas soon but you could always check me out on Pinterest to see what wedding dress or ceremony location is inspiring me that day.

As for my outfit, after the beach and in all the humidity that was this weekend I needed something light to lounge around in.  I snagged the tank top at H&M a couple months back.  I loved the colors in the skull and knew I would get a lot of use out of it.  The shorts I've had for quite some time now.  At $4.99 (Forever 21, where else..) I couldn't resist.  Moving on to the clutch.  Its amazing how easier life is using this studded yellow number.  Unlike my normal haul of keys, cash, cards, phone, charger, hand lotion, two scents, toothbrush, Aleeve, camera, batteries, and whatever else might be lying around lately its just been my phone, my keys, license and cards.  Completely liberating

Hope you had a fantastic weekend ( I know a little late seeing as it is almost Friday) and managed to get out in the sun. 

****Beach Day - What I Wore****

Although the sun's warm rays came in moderation, nothing can take away from the pure bliss of a beach day!!!!

I'm really bad when it comes to impulse bikini buys and H&M makes it even harder with their ridiculously affordable selection but I restrained myself and walked out with just this lovely number. The cover up is from them as well. The button down was only $13 (I think) and is perfect with either the bathing suit, my leggings and heels or just lounge in. As for my flats, they are my summer go-tos by Fendi. Metallic woven leather and super comfy. But no, I dis not get them at Intermix (rather Barneys), I just love the bag and it is now my official beach bag.

On with the weekend and hope yours is going well....

****The Long Weekend - What I Wore****

BIRD PRINT CROP TOP - H&M, AQUA SKINNIES - (Similar pair HERE), SUNGLASSES - H&M, CREAM STRAPPY D'ORSAY SANDALS - BCBG

It the beginning of a long weekend for me and I'm super excited.  Beach plans on Saturday giving me a chance to rock my new bikini from H&M.  Before I decided on the two piece did try on a neon, color blocked wetsuit sort of contraption that I fell in love with.  Unfortunately my arms were suffocating in it and they did not have a larger size....let the hunt begin and here's to a swift accomplishment as my 35% off coupon ends on the 27th. Also on my weekend agenda...a small handful of DIY projects....plus I desperately need to clean out my car.  

About the pictures...the scenery was taken (with my phone I might add) on a walk I took a couple weekends ago.  Its a super quiet neighborhood that has a small, never congested beach and the best view of the water. The outfit was just something I threw on in the spirit of a beautiful day last weekend.  I've managed to accumulate a few crop tops but never seem to wear out much.  I've started Pilates back up on account of bikini season and plan to put the midriff baring tops to use.  Hope you guys also have Monday off or more depending on what lucky gig you have and have a great weekend!!!!

****Sunday Casual 002 - What I Wore****

Outfit Details: Sweater-H&M, Denim Cut Off Shorts-Forever 21 (under $20 if you're interested..), Tassel Loafer Flats-BDG (similar pair here), Bag-Cole Haan, Jewelry-Naughty Baubles

The weather really perked up for me during my last few days of vacation and I definitely took the time to enjoy it. I probably say this every summer but living on the coast has its advantages.  I spent my Saturday and Sunday lounging in the yard with my Mom, taking long walks along this one stretch of coastline with huge houses and great views, developing a new obsession called Soul Calibur, making breakfast for my mom and best friend and I also did a little bar hopping Saturday night with the girls.  I took tons of pics that I promise to share soon and I still have some pictures to share from vacation.  Hope you guys had a great weekend and here's to a fast work week so we can all get back to the fun.

****Sunday Casual - What I Wore****

Sweater - I Heart Ronson (J C Penny), Scarf - H&M, Denim Leggings - Forever 21, Boots - Steve Madden, Bracelet - Naughty Baubles

Finally a warm day...or at least warmer than the bone chilling evenings we've been experiencing.  Still needed a touch of winter layers so I dug out my infinity scarf from H&M that I bought about 3 yrs ago.  Outside of random spouts of dress up during the guy's night out, this pastel knit beauty has never seen the light of day so I was happy to give its debut with my new favorite sweater. As part of my new budget friendly shopping behavior, the sweater only hit my wallet for a mere $7.  From the I Heart Ronson line at J C Penny, this baby is perfectly oversized and I love the sequin detailing.

This the last week of work before vacation and I can already feel my anxiety levels rise.  I just want it to fly by so I can get back to a relaxed state I only have dreams of now.  Work has a way of taking you from your happy place so to speak....unless that is you have the job you've always dreamed about and in that case I ENVY YOU....LOL

Happy Sunday and see you next post....