Summer Date Dresses - Chic vs. Sexy

How gorge is this dress!?

Banana Republic - Ribbon-tie sheath dress - $148 (click for details)

Wear this chic look for a more formal date - dinner at a classy restaurant? Hmmm...I'm thinking maybe martinis or a bottle of wine with din-din? This awesome, summer date dress is uber ladylike so your potential beau doesn't get any crazy ideas.

Now, if you want to give your date the wrong impression...jk, if you want to go for a more sexy look, I would go for this dress:

bebe - Sexy Bow Front Halter Dress - $139 (click for details)

Wear this dress for your next "night on the town" date. Dinner and a movies with this hauteness? Nah...more like dinner and a fun-filled evening dancing the night away. This dress is fitted in all the right places to show off your curves. The men will go ga-ga!

Which look do you guys prefer?

NOTE: Images and items from bananarepublic.com and bebe.com respectively

Shopping Tip - Wait Out the Steals

Sometimes, the best things in life do come to those who wait...here's proof - look what I got tonight:


J Crew - Perry-stripe shirting skirt - Was $88 - Now $49.99 (click image for details)

This happens to me a lot. You see something in the store...you really want to get it, but you don't "have" to have it. Do you splurge and let your shopaholicism kick into high gear? Well, it depends on your budget, your debt, and other stuff like that, but my personal shopping standard is to get stuff at full price that I love-love-love and have to have - I try to be as selective as possible with the full price stuff. If I really like an item but don't "have" to have it, then I wait it out. I figure, if I wait, and that item is still available when I go back to buy it on sale, then it's "meant to be." This policy has actually helped me a lot with not overspending b/c instead of buying something on a whim, if I'm not 100% sure that I love an item, I put it back on the rack and just wait it out. Once you see your "love" on a good deal, then it's time to pounce!

As they only had 2 of these left and I really love-love-love it, I bought this at full price:

St. Barth Bag - looks like it's sold out in the butterfly print, but click the image for details on the seersucker bag

With the shopping, at least for me, it usually depends too on what I have more of in my closet. For example, I don't have a really cute day bag (I mean my Chanel is gorge, but what if I go somewhere it might get messed up, like the beach?), so I've been on the lookout for a cute daytime bag for awhile and this fits the bill at a pretty reasonable price. On the other hand, I have a fair # of skirts, so I don't really "need" another one, but at a good price, I'm game!

NOTE: Skirt image and item from jcrew.com

BR Does Business Chic

Anyone remember this outfit from a post about Banana Republic for work awhile back?


I suppose most of you already knew I'd buy the top from this outfit, but I paired it with a white Banana Republic skirt from last season and neutral linen peep-toe pumps (also BR last season) to re-create the Banana Republic outfit I was drooling over all pre-spring:

Hmm...the outfit looks better on the model...but oh well, I just love how feminine and spring-y this outfit is! At least I was comfy all day! Wearing this skirt is like wearing PJ's to work...and who doesn't want that?

Funky Layers

This is what I wore today:

It's not my favorite-est look, but you gotta play around with your wardrobe sometimes to keep things fresh. I think I'd like it a lot better if the sweater were a tad less bullky, but it was all I had that I thought wouldn't look too crazy over the short-sleeved button-up I had on under it. The overall look kinda reminds of me of the funky layering technique I'm seeing all around - items I'd never pair together piled one on top of the other. I dunno, but I had fun playing around with my outfit today, so I guess that's all that matters!

Tank Top - Banana Republic
White, Short-Sleeved Button-Up - Banana Republic
Trouser Pants - Gap
Sweater - Anthropologie
Linene Peep-Toes - Banana Republic
Yellow Monogram Purse - Coach

Breezy Beach Cover-Up

Two months till my Charleston vacation, and I can't stop thinking about vacation and beach gear. I just bought this awesome, breezy beach cover-up from J Crew in turquoise:

The beach skirt is gauzy and totally tropical weather-worthy, but I think anyone could easily pull wearing this skirt out and about. Umm...not so much to work, but if you're going shopping with the girls or out to get your pedi, this skirt would be as comfy as pajamas but so much cuter!

NOTE: Image and item from Jcrew.com

Luxurious Day Clutch

How's this for a day clutch?

Why have the $200 Cole Haan day clutch when you can have the $1000 Nancy Gonzalez crocodile day clutch? Ok, so maybe if you're super rich or just got a big bonus check you're taking me seriously now, but either way, is this not a smokin' haute day clutch? I'd love to see this clutch rocked with a gorge white dress or maybe a Spring 2007-inspired bright colored outfit.

If you can afford the $1000, the $200, or a $10 clutch, the way I see it, you should spend your money how you want and buy what you want...so long as it doesn't put you into debt, of course ;)

NOTE: Image and item from neimanmarcus.com

Nautical Business Casual

Anyone else out there as much a fan as I of the nautical theme! I loved it last year and I love it this year again! I put this lil number together for the office:

It's super simple, but I think the scarf gives it a lil something extra. I added the green tote for a splash of color. There's something about blue and green, especially navy and lime!

Wideleg Navy Pants - The Limited
Cream Cardigan Set - Banana Republic
Slingback Pumps - Banana Republic
Navy Anchor Scarf - J Crew
Lime Green Tote - MICHAEL Michael Kors

Look Who Has My Chanel!

Look who has my Chanel!

Nikki Hilton, you copycat! lol...jk...I'm sure she got hers first...she probably has one of each. I know I would if I were that rich!

Chic Summer Hair a la Reese Witherspoon

With the warm weather approaching, I don't know about you, but I'm seriously scoping the latest fashion mags for the hottest do's so I can update mine with my newly updated wardrobe. If you're looking for a way to add some new style to your hair, then look no further than Reese Witherspoon. With the array of styles she's had over the years, you're sure to find something that suits your fancy.


The first option that comes to mind is the classic bob. Why the bob? Because summer means hot weather, and who wants a lot of hair all around to deal with or get tangled in the pool? Keep it short to tame the heat. Not to mention the bob is just so darn cute! Dry your hair, flat-iron a bit, and you're done!


Don't want to cut your hair? Then have your stylist give your do some layers and a pretty blowout for a soft, finished look. Go for some long bangs if you really want to get the "Reese" look.


Was the last style too simple for your inner diva? Then keep the layers, but put them in curlers or use a curling iron to get big loose curls that will make you look "Legally Blond" appropriate.


Of course, if you want to get the lastest "Reese" look, then your answer is simple: get bangs. I have to admit, when I saw the first pictures of Reese with the new bang-look, I half-thought about running to my stylist (but not with their scissors b/c that's dangerous) to have my locks chopped, but then I remembered that with my combination skin and sometimes a tad bit oily forehead, the whole bang look just isn't my thing. If any of you gals out there are lucky enough to pull the bang style off, I say go for it!

Which style is your fave? Which would you actually think about getting?

Summer 2007 Must-Have: Jersey Dress

Summer is going to be sizzlin' hot, as always, so to keep cool, you're going to have to have an equally cool summer look. Take your daytime look up another chic-notch by kicking your boring khaki shorts to the curb and opting for a breezy & beautiful jersey dress. Choose a dress in a solid color and add sass to your outfit by layering your look with fun tank tops and funky shoes. Here are three dresses, sure to please any fashionista's budget:

Surefire Steal

At $69.50, this dress ain't all that cheap, but unless you want your new look to fall apart in the next wash, this is a pretty good price for a dress. This simple cotton dress is available in your choice of gray or black, meaning you can make lots of outfit variations using bright tops and/or bright shoes.

Slight Stretch

J Crew V-neck jersey knit dress - $88 is nearly $100, which for most people is a lot of money. But just gel on this thought for a minute...you're investing in a dress that you're sure to get lots of stylin' wear with all spring and summer long. With a look this simple yet chic, you're sure to make your money back in compliments.

Serious Splurge

I'm not sure if I'd pay $220 this dress would cost, but if you're looking to splurge on your summer jersey dress, then let this be the one. This Beth Bowley Smocked Jersey Dress comes in Azalea, White, and Navy so you can choose to add your "brights" to the look with the main piece or your current collection of accessories.

If you've read my latest posts on dresses, then you probably already knew I was going to get this one:

Jersey Dress - J Crew
Tank - Banana Republic
Espadrilles - Banana Republic - almost sold out online, so call your local store to see if they can locate a pair for you

NOTE: Images and items from gap.com, jcrew.com, and nordstrom.com respectively

Steal of the Weekend - Tod's for $25

If you've ever read my other blog, The Chic Life, then you'd know that I love to go thrifting. This weekend, I went shopping with my fiance's mom at a consignment/antique store and found the steal of the weekend - Tod's sandals:


Can you believe I got these for only $25?! A similar pair retails online for over $400! And I found them just in time for spring!

Fun Floral Wedges - Spring/Summer 2007

I've seen tons and tons and tons of espadrilles...seemingly everywhere, and while I love the wedge, especially the espadrille, sometimes you want something different, like these:

Giuseppe Zanotti Floral Wedge Slide - click for details
Shown here in "Blue Multi" but I saw it in green in Neiman Marcus and thought that the green was sooo much more yummy.

Instead of standard espadrille "roping" or raffia, these super sexy wedges feature a spring-inpsired floral, which along with the straps, is encrusted with bling-bling Swarovski crystals. Sparkly, feminine, and oh-so-pretty...what's not to like (except maybe the price tag)?

Note: image and item from neimanmarcus.com

Slouchy Chic a la Jennifer Connelly

Glam.com has a feature on twentysomething, childhood favorite actress Jennifer Connelly, best known to me as the chick on Labyrinth, aka Sarah. While perusing the feature, "Jennifer Connelly: The Actor's Actor," I couldn't help but notice that this outfit:


was very similar to some outfits I've seen on recent ads for mainstream America's favorite, Gap:



Meaning that not only can you readily get this slouchy chic look at nearly any mall (or online), but you can also steal this style for cheap. Both outfits total at around $150 - and that includes classic Converse shoes on one and a hat on the other!

Click here to see "Jennifer Connelly: The Actor's Actor on Glam.com

My Other Chic Chanel Accessory!

Since I'm going out of town this weekend and may not be able to post for a couple days, I won't leave you guys in suspense anymore. I am happy to share that I am the proud owner of my very own classic, black, quilted Chanel purse, complete with gilded chain straps...yay!

Check out my new baby!


Isn't she just gorge?!

Wow! My first designer purse...I couldn't be happier. I'm not sure what's better...just owning this fabulous purse, or the satisfaction of knowing that I earned it all by my little lonesome.

Anyone else out there earn anything fab lately?

Shop Trends With Saks Want It! Picks

Sak's is working hard to make your life easier. Not only are some of the season's latest trends spelled out for you, but Saks groups trendy clothing and accessories by each category to simplify your trend-shopping.

Here's a sneak peek:


Click here to shop Sak's Want It! Picks

Get free shipping on orders over $150 by using promo code WANTIT at checkout! Offer good through March 25!

Here are my picks of the Want It! Picks:

You know I love the Louboutins!
Christian Louboutin Peep-toe Platform Slingbacks


Ooh...so sexy!
Streets Ahead double-buckle Stretch Belt


Just haute for spring!
Cynthia Steffe Belted Short Shorts

*All images and items from saks.com

Chic Chanel Accessory

How simply chic is Chanel? I mean, really...who else defines class and ladylike style with such perfection? That's why when I found out these (see below) were going to be coming into Neiman Marcus last week, I immediately signed up for their "Wish List"...umm...and a Neiman's card b/c w/o a card # they'd have to give "my" earrings to the next person...I couldn't let that happen, could I?

Lookie what I got!

What's in that Chanel box under my brand spankin' new Chanel earrings you ask? Guess you'll have to check back to find out!

Sping-Inspired Business Look

Spring is here, and in honor of the season and warmer weather, I decided to start my work week with a spring-inspired business look:

It's an all Banana Republic outfit - I normally don't like to do outfits completely from one store, but I simply couldn't resist. I'm a big fan of accessories, so when I saw this scarf on bananarepublic.com, I knew I had to have it...and an outfit to go with it, of course. Would I be a true shopaholic if I didn't get an entire ensemble?

Anywho, for any gals out there shopping for some great work-gear, I highly recommend these wide leg pants. They're super comfy and the cut is awesome - very work-sppropriate! Oh, and the top is a great purchase - I have it in a couple colors. It's lightweight, sooo soft, and a steal at only $38.

Oh, and if you decide to shop for any of these pieces, I recommend trying the stores first - they're almost all sold out online...eek!

Top - Banana Republic
Wide leg pants - Banana Republic
Slingback pumps - Banana Republic
Scarf - Banana Republic
(see, I wasn't kidding)

Spring/Summer 2007 Must-Have: Day Clutch

You probably have at least one night time clutch in your closet, but with the day clutch rising to the forefront of Spring and Summer 2007 trends, you may need to make room for a new style of clutch. Here are some I've seen while shopping:


J Crew - Straw and faux-patent Avignon clutch - $78
Image and item from Jcrew.com


Michael Michael Kors "Big Valley" Flap - $188
Image and item from macys.com


Cole Haan - Taran Straw Collection Clutch - $195 - This is my favorite! If I get any day clutch, this will be the one!
Image and item from colehaan.com

Fashion Friend Finale

Fashion Friend Finale for week ending 3/9/07:


Couture in the City shows us her picks from new, high-end label Calypso

Shop Diary helps us find "The Secret Balenciaga Bag"

The Daily Obsession finds the perfect Spring/Summer 2007 Black dress by Sunner

Petit Tresor offers a special reader discount code for preppalicious online boutique CCC Gifts

Fashion Food Culture-Life needs help picking out the perfect designer wallet - Prada, Chloe, Bottega Venetta, Gucci, Tod's, or Lodis - what should she buy?!

Simple Spring/Summer 2007 Casual Dress

This weekend at J Crew, I tried on a jersey dress (click for details), which would make a perfect casual outfit for Spring/Summer 2007. I know, I know, I'm blogging about another dress, but they're just so fun...can you really have enough?

Shown here in Botanical Green


Also available in a fun daytime color - Bright Papaya


and Black, Chocolate, and Classic Navy.

On all the models in the store, they had this dress paired with tank tops - a good call considering how low cut the front of this dress is, not to mention the back. When I tried this on, the back section was so lowcut my bra clasp was showing. I think putting the tank top under the dress adds something to the look though...makes it fun.

*NOTE - Image and item from jcrew.com

Chic Black & White Dress - Cheap!

Hey Ladies...like the Anthropologie dress I blogged about yesterday but don't like the price tag? Yea, I don't have any Anthropologie dresses yet for a reason, but there are other super cute dresses out there! Maybe not with the exact same color or the same shape, but def with the same "chic factor!" Check out the sweet dress I found at The Limited recently:


Black & White Rose Dress by The Limited - A great purchase for only $68

This dress is an awesome piece to add to your wardrobe because it's so versatile! Just remember that dress is a tad on the low-cut side, so if you're planning on wearing it to work or to meet the parents or to go on a nice date, do remember to add a cami to the look to keep you looking super classy.

Pair with a nice blazer to make this look business casual appropriate.

Punch up the look with bright shoes or a bright purse (or both)!

Dress - The Limited
Cami - The Limited (they have the best camis!)
Shoes - Michael Kors
Purse - Ann Taylor Loft

Chic Spring Dress

Looking for the perfect dress for spring - something not too casual, but not too dressy? Anthropologie has a great selection of fun & flowy dresses.

My pick:

Savannah Dress - $228 (click for details)
Image and item from anthropologie.com

This dress reminds me of one of those chic ladylike looks a Beyonce would rock. Wear this dress to a daytime or nighttime date or even just to shopping with your girlfriends. Add some hot pumps or wedges and your look is complete, like these:

Vachetta t-strap platform sandal - $128 (click for details)
Image and item from bananarepublic.com

This look will catch any hottie's eye for all the right reasons!

Protecting Your Heels

Candid Cool made an excellent recommendation for protecting my latest investment - getting rubber soles for my Louboutins. I've never had shoes nice enough worth doing this for, so I have no clue what this means. Any one out there know the best method to have this done or questions to ask a shoe repair person to ensure they do this correctly?

Thanks, Ladies!

:) D

Beach Chic a la Vera Bradley

There are tons of shops, boutiques, restaurants and other places to spend your hard-earned cash when you work uptown. Everything you could possibly need is in walking distance - Post Offices, dry cleaning, shoe repair...you name it, you probably got it. There just happens to be a Merle Norman store that sells lots of pretty Vera Bradley wares. I love Vera Bradley...everything is so pretty and preppy and just plain chic. I stopped in the other day...just to look, of course, and saw the cutest beach tote and towel. They had lots of fab purses, checkbook covers, etc., but there was something to the beach tote. Put on top of that the fact that my honey and I have a vacation planned in Charleston in May, and I just happen to have a need for a beach tote, and the seed of shopaholicism is planted again. I was able to walk away from the store empty-handed a few days ago, but had to pass the store a couple times walking from building to building this week, all the while gazing in at the beach totes displayed so nicely in the window. When a girl on one of my projects told me today that they only had 3 beach totes left and weren't getting any more, I knew what I had to do. Cross my fingers that they'd still have the tote closer to May? Wait it out and hope it goes on sale? Yea right, I headed straight to that little boutique to pick out which color I wanted. Here's what I got:


I got the beach tote (so chic), matching beach towel (ooh it's so plush!), matching flip flops, and I got the matching notebook for free. I can't wait to hit the beach...or the pool...whichever comes first. Either way, these new goodies are going to be put to good use this summer!

For any gals out there planning a tropical vacation or maybe shopping for the perfect summer gift for a friend or loved one - these beach goods would make awesome presents or treats for yourself!

Welcome Home, Loubies

So, remember how I mentioned that I made another splurge purchase on my latest shopping spree? Here they are:

Yes, I bought my very first pair of Christian Louboutins from Neiman Marcus - see the fab red bottoms? I'd post a link, but they're not online. Why did I buy two when I was only supposed to buy one, you ask? I blame shopaholicism...lol. Seriously, both shoes were fabulously great "work chic" investments. How could I put one back? Theoretically, I could wear these shoes the rest of my life...at least that's how I reason with myself when I'm shopping...hmmm

Oh, and I'm def rocking my Loubies out while I'm blogging. See!