Fab Find: Perfect to a T

I love waking up on Thursday with the realization that the weekend is near.  The thought of not having to jump out of bed to begin the weekday race is so thrilling that I instantly get an adrenaline rush to help kickstart my day.  Eventually, reality sets in and quickly yanks me right out of my daydream.  I may not have to get the kids to school, myself to appointments, worry about dinner, etc.  Rather a new race begins - trying to fit in early morning exercise, sporting events, birthday parties, random errands, giving the dog a bath... you name it.  Let's just say the weekends aren't quite what they used to be...

However, there is one thing that can always make me feel better - a fab find!  It is hard to resist a great item that will up your chicness without breaking the bank.  An added bonus - it will help your weekend go a bit more smoothly.  Curious???

What about a cute dress that you can throw on Saturday morning with a pair of flats or sandals?  Better yet, the dress is very affordable.  Gap's new T-inspired line of dresses is just that... stylish pieces that are easy, comfy and all under $75. Take your pick... I would like them all!

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Happy Shopping!

                                                                                                                                - Allison
*Photos courtesy of gap.com.

DVF Rocks!

I have a very serious crush on Diane Von Furstenberg.  I love the way that she believes women should embrace their femininity and "wear a dress" while kicking ass.  I also love her prints and the way her clothes fit just right.  Oh, and I love her use of silk jersey... it is a perfect fabric.   Like I said, I heart DVF (especially the dresses)... sigh.

As you can imagine, I was extremely excited to find out that she was re-releasing some of her vintage prints this past month!  And, let me tell you, they are fabulous!  Let's just say, slip on one of these dresses and you will be effortlessly chic for any event this summer... shopping in the Hamptons, sipping a cocktail at the Chatham Bars Inn (a personal favorite!), hosting a party, lounging by the pool or even going to work... these pieces are simply irresistible!

These above looks (and plenty more) are available at dvf.com.

                                   - Allison

*photos courtesy of the huffingtonpost.com, Tim Boxer/Hulton Archive/Getty, dvf.com

Have You Heard?

I must share this immediately... have you heard of BHLDN?  It is from the Anthropologie (Urban Outfitters group) and it is amazing!!!  It is the next step for the woman who loves Anthro... wedding dresses!  And not just wedding dresses, there are dresses (bridesmaid, rehearsal dinner, shower, etc.), shoes, jewelry, accessories, lingerie... all done in the Anthro way - a little bit vintage, whimsical and most definitely unique!

Either way, this is a website that you must check out.  And, for those of you not planning a wedding, there are plenty of things for you as well... the dresses, shoes, lingerie, accessories.  Believe me, I am trying to figure out where and when I can wear all of the beautiful pieces that I have already purchased (in my mind!).  Is it too early to renew my vows - it is going on 7 year???  And, can I wear another wedding dress to this vow renewal?!

Think of BHLDN as that little shop that you go to when you need that special finishing touch for your outfit.  Maybe it is a little bolero for a dressy tank and jeans or a fabulous pair of shoes for your LBD, whatever the occasion this is certainly going to be a new "go to" for me!  I think I am in love...

                         - Allison

*photos courtesy of bhldn.com

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Chunky Knits plus much, much more...

On the brink of the cold "winter" weather tomorrow, all I can think about are cozy sweaters, cute tunics, fabulous belts... anything and everything that has to do with layering!  It might as well snow tomorrow with the outfits that I have planned!  When I get into this mood, I head straight to my computer... "Free People, here I come"... to fulfill all of my clothing fantasies.

You may be wondering about my choice in stores... are they too young???  Well, in general, they do market towards twenty-somethings, but if you look close enough there are many pieces that will fit nicely into your wardrobe.  Plus, the bohemian feel of Free People adds a bit of fun and whimsy (we all need a dose here and there).  Another positive of the store... when you add a piece of their clothing or an accessory, you are not going to look like everyone else.

In general, I love their sweaters, dresses (many can be worn as tunics), and jewelry.  They also have great knit tops and slips to use as your base when layering.  The prices are reasonable (for the most part) and, of course, there are many splurge-worthy items... especially in the jewelry department!  You just have to remember that you are probably not going to wear the items the way they are styled online or in the store.  But, I do recommend checking out the website and just remember to think outside the box a bit... have some fun!  

                         - Allison

P.S. This is a great store for gift items!

*photos courtesy of freepeople.com

Inspired...

As I drove my daughter to preschool this morning, I was trying to decide what to wear... you must understand that I am not a morning person, and the most I can manage before school are my "comfy clothes" (otherwise known as dressed up jammies).  Why is my decision is so hard today... it is definitely the weather.  It is 40 degrees, gray, windy and spitting half frozen rain.  It is that time of the year where there are more leaves on the ground than on the trees, but I am actually a bit excited because you know the holiday season is just around the corner!

Then, suddenly, as I was mesmerized by the colors of what was left of the Fall foliage... a lightbulb went on!  I have got it!  I want to wear a beautiful floral dress, layered with a tissue t-neck or a gray chunky knit sweater belted over it and, of course, my Frye boots.  Now, I don't own this fabulous dress, but a Ralph Lauren gown came to mind as did many other beautiful designer florals.  It just seemed like a perfect day to wear something that is pretty, feminine and cozy while adding that element of ruggedness. I think that this will be my perfect November outfit... we can all dream, right?!

After all of this daydreaming, I have come to the conclusion that we must all have a Fall floral dress in our closets.  It will be our "go to" on days when we feel a bit down or just need to feel pretty.  Plus, you could dress it up with faux fur and heels for an evening out, or winterize it a bit more and wear it out to dinner after a long day of skiing.  The options are endless.  Most importantly, you can probably find a great dress at Forever 21!  Really you have no excuses, go get your dress!  Me, I think I will be adding one to my Christmas list!

                         - Allison

*photos courtesy of bergdorfgoodman.com & neimanmarcus.com 

Headed Outdoors...

I should have written about this earlier this summer, but of course, I didn’t really think about it until I went to the Barclays on Friday, and again on Sunday (so hot!).  So just tuck this tidbit away until needed again! 

If you are headed outdoors to a casual event, your best bet is a lightweight dress or skirt.  On a hot day, wearing a less restrictive clothing is much more cool & comfortable!  Pair it with a some cute (flat) sandals or thongs (can always get a great looking supportive pair instead of sneakers) and a cross-body bag... you will look very chic amidst all of the hot, sweaty people who should have listened to me!

Now, if this is not your style, another great option is a pair of lightweight shorts (a crisp cotton or linen blend) and a cute tank or t.  Once again pair with flat sandals or a pair of cute ballet flat style sneakers.  Remember, loose clothing is much more comfortable & flattering than something tight on a hot day.

                      - Allison

*If you have cooler weather, definitely go with a classic look such as the white pants and black shirt... it always looks good!