Vintage Style

The goods:
• sweater from Bloomingdales
• denim from Forever21
• booties from Zara
• gold necklace from Lori's Shoes
• grandmother's vintage coat

When it comes to finding frugal fashions, I can bargain shop like the best of them, and I can thank my mother and Nana for instilling this 6th sense in me. Nana has always been a stylish woman – layering items from her incredible collection of costume jewels, adding a colorful scarf to her classic blouse and jacket ensembles, and of course her lovely bunch of coats with fur accents (but all on a dime, even making her own clothes). I appreciate how she has managed to stay current, allowing her classic style to evolve over time (she can definitely rock a pair of colored jeans!). I will continue to be inspired by my Nana ... and continue to borrow items, like this coat, from her closet!  

Below, a few chic looks from years past (note to self: dig out that floral swing coat asap)

Mild March Madness

The goods:
• button down shirt from Banana Republic
• jacket from Forever21
• red denim from Marshall's
• pumps from Aldo
• cocktail ring from Lori's Shoes
• earrings by Guess
• glasses from Forever21

It may not be rooftop weather just yet, but I couldn't resist this late-winter "heatwave". These in between temps have me busting out my light jackets for my short walks to and from work (and probable midday stroll if the weather holds). I look forward to the days when I can come out here, donning skirts, sandals and sunnies on a regular basis.

Beauty Junkie

I have a full-fledged love affair going on ... with beauty products. From head to toe, I love and try it all. But while taking care of myself is important, so is saving a few bucks. Some products that claim to be the "crème de la crème" can exceed $300 ... and as much as I would love to slather that caviar-infused cream across my cheeks, my tears of buyer's remorse would just wash it right off. So I happily peruse the aisles at Ulta, Sephora, and CVS to get my fix. I mentioned a few of my faves before, but here are the rest of my loves that have found their way into my permanent beauty stock ... and don't break the bank.

The beautiful goods: 

1. L'Oreal Voluminous Million Lashes Mascara – $8.95, available here
A friend recommended this mascara to me, claiming it stays true to it's promise to separate every lash. It's true, and I'm now a devotee.

2. Bio-Oil – $10.49, available here
I smooth this stuff over my neck and chest at night and in the morning, my skin is baby-smooth. It also magically makes dry patches or little blemishes disappear, almost overnight!

3. L'Oreal Sublime Bronze Lotion SPF20 – $8.54, available here
I'm a big fan of multi-purpose products and this one truly is. SPF20 offers daily protection, vitamin E adds moisture, and it gives a glow! I use it everywhere, even on my face (and sorta got Steve hooked on it too!).

4. Almay Wake Up Under Eye Concealer – $8.99, available here
I've been devoted to Almay under eye concealers for years, I find them to offer the most natural coverage, protection, and staying power.

5. Philosophy The Microdelivery Exfoliating Wash – $25, available here  
After sampling Exfolikate, I was hooked on the fine texture and skin-smoothing results ... but not the $85 price tag. For Christmas, my mom gave me this Philosophy product and it's fantastic alternative! (and much easier on the wallet)

6. Mary Kay Timewise Age-Fighting Moisturizer – $22, available here
This isn't your grandmother's Mary Kay ... their moisturizers are some of the best I've tried. I also discovered their firming eye cream and won't ever look back.

7. Physicians Formula Bamboo Bronzing Powder – $9.95, available here
This bronzer conditions skin and absorbs excess oil, I love the natural shade too. 

8. Nivea Cream Travel Tin – $1.99, available here
This hand cream is the best on dry, winter skin. And under $2? I have one in my purse, on my desk and at home. Also amazing – and slightly pricier – is this product.

9. Stila Stay All Day Eye Liner  – $20, available here
I'm a big fan of the cat eye look, so I want a super fine tip that allows for precision and control. I find this pen is easier to "draw" with than the pyramid-shaped bottles and applicators.

10. Rock&Republic Blush in "Spank"  – discontinued, but similar shade available here
I picked up this pretty pink shade a couple years ago, it lasts forever thanks to the super pigmented powder. Sadly, these quality products were discontinued, but Stila's "bud" is a very close second.

Prep Time

The goods:
• polo shirt from Polo Ralph Lauren
• vintage striped top from France
• navy cords and silver belt from J.Crew
• suede sling backs from Nine West
• silver bangle from Nine West
• silver and blue bracelet from Mexico
• gifted silver disk earrings

There was a time when my look was pretty preppy – think collared shirts with cable knit cardigans, pearls and french manicures. Being the clothes hoarder I am, some (okay, most) of these items still linger in my closet. But instead of looking like a country club tennis pro, this kelly green polo gets an update with stripes and silver accents. Certain looks have a time and place, so I'll leave the tennis skirts and cardigans in my closet ... for now.

Cake Walk

Nothing says "girls night in" like baked goods and a little bubbly. With three of my girlfriends over, we set out to taste which popular sweet shop in the city makes the best cupcake. We picked up a vanilla cake from Sprinkles, Magnolia Bakery, Sarah's Pastries, and Sweet Mandy B's and got to tasting those sweet buttercream frosted treats!  

Choosing a winner from these decadent desserts was pretty difficult – they're all so good! – but in the end, Sarah's "took the cake" for the best vanilla cupcake, with it's natural vanilla bean flavor and frosting filled center (but I'm open to a re-taste anytime).

{cupcakes in numbered order – Sweet Mandy B's, Sarah's Pastries, Sprinkles, Magnolia Bakery}

Home Stretch

The goods:
• black top from Forever21
• velvet jacket by C. Ronson
• studded denim by J.Brand
• pumps from Aldo
• hat from J.Crew
• bangles from Forever21
• tote bag by Michael Kors

Spring is just around the corner, so I am pulling some winter pieces from my closet for these final few weeks. I found this winter-white velvet jacket at Nordstrom Rack for around $20 years ago. I love the classic cut, but unexpected fabric (with fun pink polka-dot lining), it adds a little warmth to this chilly Monday morning. Also, if you ever spill, say, a gigantic glass of red wine on white velvet, just soak it overnight in oxiclean and it's as good as new! (yes, that happened)

I {Heart} Paris

As Steve and I plan our wedding, we constantly find ourselves looking to our Parisian engagement for inspiration. I'm always collecting ideas for color, decor, and attire (as evidenced here) and clearly gravitate toward the pallete of Paris. Here are a few inspirational links from a few of my favorite Frenchie sites ...

This gorgeous wedding held in the center of the city ... just how I imagine a wedding in Paris to be.

These breathtaking gowns that I'm fairly positive I'd wear even if I weren't getting married.

A short interview with the owner of Ladurée (and photos that perfectly capture that Parisian je ne sais quoi).

... And how fun would it be to stay here?

But since we're in Chicago, Paris Club will have to tide us over. This weekend they're hosting the 4th Annual Bridal Fair. Couples can enjoy bites and bubbles and peruse local vendors and boutiques for their upcoming nuptials.

Bon week-end!

I [heart] Paris bangle from Forever 21

Comforts of Home

I'm feeling a little under the weather so I'm taking it easy at home today. Steve usually works from home but is out of town, luckily I've got a few key comforts here with me ...

My Missoni blanket that my friend was able to score for me.

The very cozy RL Lodge candle (and the matches from my parent's wedding)

King's Tea from Mariage Frères in Paris

Loveliness in Spades

Last week I attended the "So Dressed Up" event at Kate Spade on Oak. Guests were treated to tasty brunch treats and mimosas from Sugar Chic Designs. The shop was chock-full of bright accessories and fashions – lots of coral, raspberry, and cream, which makes me wish spring would get here already! Below are a few visual delights from the event ... definitely need to get my hands on those coral and cork flats! ( ... and orange clutch, and bangles, and the rest of Spade's spectacular goods).

The eventful goods, clockwise from top: 

• The candy bar boasted all of my faves, complete with baggies for filling!

• Whimsical enamel bangles

• A collection of patent clutches

• A standalone bag that caught my eye

• A perfect combo of pink lemonade and French macarons

• A lovely line of Bond Street Florence handbags

• Fancy flats in coral and cork

• The adorable, springy storefront

Kate Spade
56 Oak Street

Winter White

The goods:
• black top from Mikkat Market
• jacket from UO
• jeans and clutch from Forever21
• two tone pumps from Zara
• cocktail ring from Lori's Shoes
• wrap watch by La Mer
• initial necklace from Stitch, vintage gold and rhinestone necklace

I love my collection of vintage etiquette books, especially the outdated "rules" they outline. Wearing white in winter used to be considered a big fashion no-no, but these light jeans are a clean, crisp alternative to regular denim and my go-to black pants. Paired with darker items and the appropriate shoes, white jeans can be worn year round. I grabbed this hot pink clutch from Forever21, a sweet seven-dollar accessory to punch up this black and white ensemble.