Outfit Ideas: Skinny Cargo Pants

If you’re only looking for a few pieces this Fall, definitely consider getting a skinny cargo pant. They began trending last Spring and are totally mainstream and on-trend for the upcoming season.

Initially, I had mixed feelings about them, probably because of my aversion to traditional cargos.  Those have always been too crunchy and utilitarian for my style.  Plus, the loose silhouette and giant pockets (although convenient) are never, never flattering– especially on people who are short like me.

But the new skinny cargos largely resolve those issues.  The sleeker silhouette makes a huge difference, and the pockets sit flatter to the body, which keeps them from adding extra bulk and width to the legs.  Overall, the effect is very sassy-girl-in-the-city as opposed to just-got-my-first-job-as-a-camp-counselor.  So I think they’re a win and a great way to make your wardrobe scream 2010!

A couple of thoughts about wearing them:

  • They work because they combine a sexy shape with no-nonsense flair.  Build on that by pairing them with body-conscious, streamlined pieces.  Just remember to keep it modern and basic.  Adding overly frilly or feminine elements will just confuse the look.
  • As always, wearing the right shoe is important.  Unless you’ve got long legs, try to add a slight heel, but avoid Carrie Bradshaw-esque stilettos.  Good bets are wedge flats, gladiator styled shoes, some ankle boots, and some pumps.
  • These can be appropriate for a casual office.  Treat them like you would skinny jeans and wear a balanced top or blouse.
  • Still hesitant?  Consider colors like gray or black rather than the traditional khaki and army green.

Some quick thoughts about how to wear a specific pair of skinny cargos two different ways.

Today on Ideeli: Repetto and C&C California

So excited to visit Ideeli today for a couple of fabulous boutiques.  Both Repetto and C&C California are known for their classic, glamorous style. 

Repetto–  I haven’t worn these yet but have been considering purchasing a pair of the ballet flats for a while.  With the Ideeli boutique happening today and fall fashions on the horizon, I just might take the plunge!  The look is fabulously chic and totally timeless– very Audrey Hepburn. 

Madame Rose Repetto created her first ballet shoe in 1947 and later began producing ballet slippers for dancing greats.  Today, the Repetto legacy continues with a line of the highest-quality flats and heels that have become synonymous with chic Parisian style. Available in a myriad of colors, these shoes are a staple in every fashion girl’s wardrobe, as they have a classic feminine aesthetic and an always sophisticated look. Perfect for walking around the city or dressing up for an evening out, you can never go wrong with a pair of Repettos.

C&C California–  I love this brand for basics and layering pieces, like tanks, tees, and cardigans.  It’s soft, body-conscious, and wonderfully wearable. 

Influenced by style icons like Raquel Welch, Natalie Wood, and Ali MacGraw, the C&C collection celebrates the relaxed glamour so particular to that sunset-washed strip of sand.   From luxe sweaters to curve-hugging dresses to playful loungewear, every creation embodies pure California chic. Perhaps that’s why its pieces have been spotted on leading ladies like Kate Hudson and Angelina Jolie. These pieces make you look like a star while still feeling completely like yourself.

Both boutiques are scheduled to begin today at 11:00 AM for 1st Row members and at 12:00 PM for 2nd Row members.

Not a member of Ideeli yet?  Click here to join. 

Happy Hunting!

Shopping the Summer Sales: Anthropologie

I’m browsing the summer sales in search of great pieces– the kind that will transition into fall.  With big discounts available at even pricey retailers, it’s possible to shop some splurge-y stores without blowing your budget.   

Of course, we all know that shopping sales can be an exercise in patience.  It’s often difficult to find the items you want in the size you need; they’re on sale for a reason.  But if you’re up for the challenge, the savings make the extra effort worthwhile! 

First up: Anthropologie.  Love the clothes.  The prices?  Not so much.  But thanks to neutral color palettes and interesting shapes, many of the pieces are perfect year-round.   Here’s my picks from the sale merchandise along with a bit of quick Polyvore wardrobing:

Deepest Fathoms Dress  ($188 to $69.95), shown with leggings, bolero, tote, and booties.  Love this cute silhouette, which could easily be worn as a tunic.  I’m all for belting if you’re into that.  Bonus: blue is going to be a hot, hot hue again this fall. 

Untitled

 ***

Cold Rush Cardigan ($98 to $49.95), Epehemera Forever Scarf ($38 to $19.95), and Tiny Bounty Hoops ($28 to $9.95), shown with black top, skinny jeans, and equestrian boots.  The reviews on the cardigan are slightly mixed, but I always love this shape.  That along with the chic color make me willing to try it.  And for less than $10, the hoops are a great everyday option.  My favorite piece of all?  The fabulous chartreuse scarf, which screams fall versatility.   

Anthropologie Cardigan, Scarf, and Earrings

 

 Visit Anthropologie.com to scout some savings of your own!

I Got 25% Off At Victoria’s Secret!

If you know me, you know I almost never pay full retail price for anything. If it’s not on sale or I can’t use a coupon code to get it cheaper, I just don’t get it.

So most of the time, I don’t buy much from Victoria’s Secret. Relatively speaking, I think their prices are ridiculous. I can’t imagine paying $59 for 1 sweater. Or $58 for a skirt. Or $75 for a dress. Even if that’s the SALE price! Just seems like a little too much…

So I was really thrilled when I found a bunch of Boucle sweaters for less than $20. I went crazy!

I bought:

And a few other things too. Everything I bought was on sale. My favorite is this sweater:

My order came to $131.90 plus $17.99 for Shipping/Handling. Then I found coupon code GIFT25 and got $32.98 taken off my order! So my total bill was $116.91. That’s a totally great deal for 10 items.

Like to Layer?

Layering is HOT, HOT, HOT this season – and lucky for us all this is an easy and AFFORDABLE trend!

I went to the mall recently, admittedly just to let my kids play. It is so cold and snowy here I figured that I could get a coffee and they could get wiggles out and then pretty much everyone leaves happy. While I was there I realized that I hadn’t actually been to the mall it quite some time – I am a die-hard online shopper. With two toddlers, I hardly have a choice. But, enough about me – while I was there I got some great inspiration while window shopping – and that ladies, is what I am here for. For you!

One trend that wasn’t hard to pick up on was layering – specifically the layering of short-sleeved sweaters with long-sleeved tops underneath.

Here’s some examples:

How cute and easy is this… so sharp!
Caslon Long Cardigan

This one doesn’t show a long sleeve top with it… but you get the idea right?
MICHAEL Michael Kors Kimono Sweater

Michael Stars makes layering a snap!
Michael Stars Shine Hooded Open Cardigan

Do you layer? What’s your favorite layered look?

Get these layer-perfect looks and more at Nordstrom.com!
NORDSTROM.com-Free Shipping on orders $100 or more!

Great Sale At The Gap – Great Sweaters – Buy 1 Get 1 Half Off!!


I don’t know about you but sometimes I need a break from the Thanksgiving eating and just need to SHOP!! There are some great on-line sales and the GAP is having one of them.

Buy One Sweater, Get the Other Sweater 1/2 Off!! This is on the regular price sweaters only.

The great thing is its not only for women but for men too!! Less guilt as you’re shopping for yourself since you can grab a sweater for him too!!







Happy Shopping!! And of Course Happy Thanksgiving!!

Winter Outfit Inspiration!

If you have been following along at home… some of these items might look familiar to you!

Here is a quick and easy way to integrate the simple Grey Cashmere Sweater that I featured yesterday into your wardrobe. It’s an easy but chic look, notice that the accessories to a lot of the work!


Grey Cashmere & Gray Nail Polish by Jill GG