Midweeks must haves.

Products on my radar:

Luxy hair extensions in Ombre Chestnut. I have a pair of these in Dark Brown already, which is the darker color of the ombre combo. I absolutely love them. They are 100% Remy human hair, super blendable, and most important comfortable. After a few wears, you will start to forget they are even there; this is huge considering some extensions have horrid clips that just won't stay in place. You can purchase these in a wide array of colors, as well as multiple lengths and weights, depending on your hair type and budget. 

Versace Bright Crystal perfume. I believe I had a sample of this scent years ago, that I completely loved. Then other day an Ulta catalog came in my mail with an inset paper perfume sample, again love at first sniff. I have trouble parting with my go-to signature scents, but this definitely jumped to the top of my next 'buy' list.

Wondering what to do with all those paper perfume samples? Check out this article courtesy of Latter Day Cents for a list of unique ways to put these [sometimes] pesky fillers to good use.

Just keep saving.

J.

Leopard lust: accessory edition.

When I think of patterns I love, the first that comes to mind is leopard. Thankfully, many retailers and consumers alike agree that this pop of flare is fit for your wardrobe.

Here are five fantastic leopard accessories, all under $30.00, to try out this season. 

Sunglasses . Gloves . Belt .Clutch . Scarf

Current promotions:

• Old Navy (gloves)- 25% off your order (ends 11/5 - code: SAVE)
• Banana Republic (belt)- 45% off your order (ends TODAY - code: BRTAKE45)
• Target (scarf)- Buy 1 get one 50% off regular priced items (ends 11/1 - no code needed)

What patterns are you lusting after for fall?

J.

Comfy, Casual boots.

If you live in a snowy region, you know a thing or two about boots. Sorel boots, Ugg boots, rain boots, flat boots, heeled boots, brown boots, black boots; I've got more pairs than any person needs, but who's here to judge.

Yet, I still find myself having to replace my favorite boot of all every year without fail. 

Comfy, casual camel flat boots.

These puppies came on trend years ago and haven't left the style scene since. And I, of course, have loved them all along. But come winter, they just don't seem to hold up. With that in mind, I made the leap to splurge on a real leather boot last fall. Although, they did take a little beating from the winter salt (ugh), they have held up far better than any of my past cheap-ies (terms of quality not price...fake leather can still run you up into the hundreds). 

In fact, I loved them so much, I bought a 2nd and 3rd pair. One in camel and the other in black. I plan to keep these reserved for fall for preservation purposes. 

Snag yours in stores or online at DSW today. Or, if you feel less committal to a real leather boot, here is a Forever21 faux-suede option, that will let you test the waters guilt free. 

J.

Coat cravings.

Hot cider, colorful leaves, pumpkins, and crisp air... the glorious things of fall. And with colder weather comes long sleeves, boots, and one of my favorite wardrobe staples, the pea coat. While the style of this lovely item has changed and morphed over the years, its classic nature remains untouched. 

You can snag a short one, a red one, a full length one, one with buttons, one with buckles, pretty much anything and everything that exudes your own personal style. 

Here are a five coats  out on the market today [that I am currently craving], arranged by ascending price. 


Classic
$27.80

Other colors available: navy, black

First up, this super simple double button coat from Forever 21. This coat is effortlessly classic and I love the longer length [a bonus in the bitter northwest winter]. Oh, and who wouldn't love this price?! 

Edgy
$39.99

Other patterns available: Herringbone-like print in black/cream as well as red, Aztec-like print in earth natural

Next,is this cute buffalo check patterned coat from Target.It hits about hip level (classic) and is super fit for fall. And again, who doesn't love a coat that won't break the bank. 

Pop of flair
$68.00

Other colors available: None 

Another great option courtesy of Kohls. This number is currently on sale, but I am posting the original price (in case you don't get to their site in time). I love pairing scarves with my pea coat, but this cowl neck offers the same great benefits (warmth) without having to layer on different pieces. 

Moto-flight
$128.00

Other colors available: None

Loft never fails to amaze me with their adorable items. This motorcycle/bomber jacket fuses together two trendy fall styles, with the cozy comfort of a wool pea coat. I need just one word to describe how I feel about this baby... LOVE.

Basic
$350.00

Other colors available: red, camel, black

One of the more spendy options, but still a great simple/sleek shape. I love how well J.crew has timeless looks. Splurge on this pea coat, if you're looking long term and don't feel the need to update your look each winter.

What are your fall essentials??

J.

Clearance queen.

I love me some clearance. And even more so when I have additional deals and coupons on top of the already great savings.

I managed to score $20 in Kohls cash, which easily began burning a whole in my pocket... especially with vacation approaching. Thankfully, it had a limited time frame before expiration so I felt completely guilt free heading to the store for the 2nd time in a week or so.

First I spotted this striped Daisy Fuentes Maxi (only Plus Size available online) that I thought would be great in the summer (jean jacket optional) or in the fall with a leather bomber jacket. This little number was a whopping 80% off and came in at $12.80. Insanity.



Next a simple Candie's wrap top caught my eye. I liked that the sleeves were a tad longer and the wrapping effect was sure to flatter the stomach. I found it while it was on sale for only $11.99 which made it a must, too. 



Lastly, I had to nab some jewels. I found classic fake diamond studs (similar option; pictured below -- mine were Daisy Fuentes) which were another 80% off steal at a measly $2.80. 


In addition to my $20 Kohls cash I had a Retailmenot coupon (Android app) for an additional 15% off which saved me another dollar or so. So....

In all, what could have cost me $112 came out to:

$6.50!

What fall deals have you found?

J.

So long work week.

Enjoy your weekend. You earned it.

J.

Operation vacation.

Every girl needs new clothes for vacation. At least that's what I've made my motto.

Something about new clothes, never washed feels so great and always seems to look it too. And what better time than on vacation, when you're without your wardrobe, to have clothes you know will make you feel stunning and special. 

In preparation for my upcoming jet-set I headed to Marshalls to scope things out and thankfully bagged this beauty. 

Get yours.

J.

Product review: Jamberry Nails

So, I have recently been introduced to the world of Jamberry Nail Wraps. At first, I will admit I was a bit skeptical of this product. I had tried the similar Sally Hanson real polish wraps, and although I thought they held up great, they were a total nightmare to put on. Jamberry's also have a bit of a learning curve, but by my second application I was starting to feel like a pro. 

Here are a few of my recent 'Jamicures':

Freshly applied: Gold Sparkle

Freshly applied: Black & White Stripe with Cup of Tea accent

After 1 week of wear: Diamond Dust Sparkle with Icy Taupe Polka accent

Check out the pros/cons of this product to see if these are right for you.

Pros:

*These things hold up. The company advises that you should be able to get 2 weeks for a manicure and six weeks for a pedicure. Pretty impressive.

*They are reasonably priced. One wrap costs you $15, but you get 2 manicures and 2 pedicures out of just that one. Likewise, Jamberry often has a buy three get one free deal going on, bringing the total cost per application down even more.

*The options seem endless. Jamberry has hundreds of designs, sure to suit your style.

*No dry time. For me this is huge, because I am constantly bumping fresh polished hands, resulting in a 2nd, 3rd, and sometimes 4th coat which is bound to get goopy and never fully dry. With Jamberry, you apply the wraps and are good to go right after.

Cons:

*The learning curve. Honestly, as with all things, practice is key to successful applications. Chances are if you are ever invited to an online Jamberry party, the consultant will have plenty of opportunities to win free half sheets or accent sheets, which are great for practicing. 

*Application time. Although the lack of dry time is something I love, these take a bit of time to get right. Good news, you can watch a TV show while doing them and time will fly.

*Waiting for them to arrive. With any online purchase, you have to wait for your goods to arrive. This can be less desirable if you want a certain look for a special occasion. But as far as shipping goes, the timeline isn't bad.

Biggest recommendation:

Buy the mini heater. They have two styles, I have the new purple one. When I first started using Jamberry I used my hair dryer to heat the wraps, which is just fine, but loud and hot. The heater is so quiet you won't even know it's on and although it gets piping hot, you won't feel the heat unless your hand is right up to the vent. Likewise, you won't have the worries of blowing all your wraps and application materials off the table. 

Give it a shot.

J.

Craving.

Fall should be cozy and I like items that make me feel this way, without compromising style. 

Bring in... the quilted puffer vest. Effortlessly sleek with boots, a button up, and jeans and practical too!

My sights are set on this cute olive number from J.Crew factory. Best of all, its clearanced out for less than $45. Insanity.

Factory Quilted Puffer Vest

What is on your must have list for fall?

J.

Fall fashion: Target spotlight

Target. 

One of my all-time favorite words. 

Below is today's look styled mainly with pieces from the fabulous Target. Most of my items have been hanging around my wardrobe for months, some even years, but I found plenty of comps online that are sure to dazzle if you like what you see.

I paired with low black suede wedges, for a comfortable classy look.

Denim button up I Statement necklace I Opaque tights I Pencil skirt

Loving fall.

J.

There's still good left.

Despite the abundance of negative headlines popping up about NFL players and their poor decisions, there are still plenty of people out there making an effort to bring a 'good name' back to the sport.

Patriots cheerleaders honor Devon Still's daughter by wearing Bengals jerseys


(Photo borrowed from the Yahoo news feed)

I saw this story on the morning news and after it brought me to tears, I knew I had to spread the word. 

A shining ray of hope that the world is still full of good. 

In the famous words of Desmond Tutu... 

"Do your little bit of good where you are; it's those little bits of good put together that overwhelm the world."


J.

Every kind of Sunday.

Some spend Sundays dressed to the nines worshiping at church or socializing at brunch, while others opt for comfy jeans and tees while they cheer on their football favs. Either way, look put together in jewel tones this fall and start your week off on the right note. 

Kickoff your shopping now at J.crew for 25% off full-price styles (use code: STYLETIME).

Set your fashion imagination in motion with these Sunday style ideas. 

Lazy football Sunday: Blouse I Sweater I Boots I Jeans

Sunday's best: Dress I Tights I Boots I Necklace

Fall in love with fall clothes.

J.

LBDs to love.

Whether its work, weddings, or whatever calls your name on a Friday night, retailers have you covered in the LBD department this fall. 

Top to bottom: 1 -- 2 -- 3 -- 4 -- 5

J.