t h e (c h l o e) c o n s p i r a c y

See Chloe Shop (Happening This Evening...)

2012-01-26T18:21:00.000-07:00

{take up to 75% off on final designer markdowns at barney's...}

Good evening, shoppers! I've added 12 new sales today for retailers like Banana Republic (25% off on your entire order), Bluefly (up to 70% off sitewide + $30 off, tonight only), Barneys (up to 75% off on designer sale items), Bath and Body Works (20% off on your entire order), Bloomingdale's (up to 60% off on new markdowns, 4 days only), Endless.com (20% off on thousands of handbags + accessories), Folica.com ($25 off of $75 - extended!), GAP (extra 30% off on sale items), Kohl's (20% off on your entire order), The Limited ($50 off on select jackets, 40% off on select bottoms, $15 off for every $50 you spend), Lulus.com (up to $20 off), and Vince Camuto (20% off on your entire order including sale items)...

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Outfits Of The Yesterdays (The Blues)

2012-01-24T16:10:00.003-07:00

♫: Don't Stop (Color On The Walls) - Foster The People

Not too much of an update for today, mostly because I have been so, so sick; and if you could somehow make this horrible webcam photo of a totally deranged person into an internets emoticon:

Tank: American Eagle Outfitters. Or GAP. Or Banana Republic. Or whatever.
Tissue: Kleenex, old (buy them here) (similar for less here) (and if you're really desperate - a total knock off here, shhh!)

...it'd be me! Wait, that is me.

(Oh it huuuurts.)

So here are some outfits from a few past healthier days, when I decided to take a shower like a normal person and pick the kleenex and cinnamon bears (sick food!) out of my hair like a normal person, too.

And, while I think this goes mostly without saying, any weird faces in the pictures below are just me trying desperately to not sneeze and accidentally blow my brains out of my nose. I kind of feel like it just might happen, and we have enough Kardashians-Khloe-Not-Inkluded in this world (and pure nonsense happening here on this blog) as it is:

Jacket: Nordstrom's, old (similar here) (similar at Forever 21)

Top: Isabel Lu, old (similar here) (similar at Bluefly) (similar here) (similar by Diane Von Furstenberg) (and an option by Free People)

Belt: J Crew, old (similar at Ann Taylor)

Skirt: Amanda Uprichard Tulip Skirt (buy it here) (similar at Urban Outfitters) (and a pencil skirt style here in 'fusion blue')

Yellow bracelet: Kendra Scott, c/o (similar here) (similar here)

Watch: Michael Kors Oversized Rosegold Watch (buy it here) (similar by Fossil)

Bag: J Crew, old (similar here) (similar at Shopbop, on sale)

Shoes: Christian Louboutin Piou PIou Pumps (buy them here) (similar at Ann Taylor)

One of my favorite patterns to wear is leopard. Not only is it versatile (it goes with brown! it goes with black! and gray! and ivory! and polka dots!) (okay! maybe not polka dots!), but it can lend a bit of fun to any outfit that needs it.

Despite its color-matching versatility it can be easy to cross the line from sweet to slop-tart when wearing leopard, so I like to stick with animal-print tops that have higher-cuts and animal-print skirts/dresses that have longer lengths. I also try to keep jewelry extreeemely minimal. Animal prints already have enough going on--they don't need lots of bangles or heavy necklaces to add to the crazy-crazy.

And if you like the look of leopard but still have reservations wearing it full bore, try wearing it in smaller doses. There are a lot of great belts, shoes, bags, and bracelets out there right now! Have fun with it.

Easy-peasy:

Blouse: Forever 21, old (similar here) (similar here) (similar for under $50)
Skirt: ASOS, old (similar here) (similar here)

Belt: J Crew, old (similar at Ann Taylor)

Ring: Forever 21 (buy it here) (similar here)

Bag: Lanvin Sweet Dora Crossbody, old (similar here) (similar by Madewell) (and here in 'camel' by Fossil)

Shoes: J Crew Mona Pumps in Pale Peacock, no longer available (similar here) (and at ASOS) (and at Piperlime)

Outfits Of The Yesterdays (Winter Whites, Prints, and Pumps)

2012-01-18T20:57:00.004-07:00

♫: Don't Worry, We'll Be Watching You - Gotye

I left Sioux Falls, South Dakota one really cold, windy day in December of 2002. I still remember following the drifting U-Haul trailer pulled behind my parent's van, swinging in the wind on I-90 and splashing cold ice pellets of snow back at me as it went. I was full of feelings of joy and wonder and excitement and, and, and.

And fear.

Fear feels a lot like the stinging, cold bitterness of a South Dakota winter, I discovered on that one-way trip. It has no taste, smell, or even sound really; yet you still somehow know it's there. It freaking hurts ~~your nose~~ all of your body parts nonetheless, it numbs.

I had spent my entire life in Sioux Falls; my entire life in the exact same small house save for a quick stay on a concrete-bench-cleverly-disguised-as-a-cheap-canvas-sofa-from-IKEA in my sister's apartment right before I moved. My parents had sold that house, you see, sold 20 years worth of memories in mere minutes to a neighbor as soon as the FOR SALE sign had hit the lawn on a late summer day. He was a big, tan burly man with a black beard, a quiet voice, a small white maltese, a loud motorcycle, and a yippy-yappy red-headed wife.

"YOU'VE MADE MY LIFE A LIVING HELL!" I had heard him yell at his wife one day, several years prior. This was followed by a violent slam of the door as he stomped outside, holding the maltese. It is hard to look adequately angry when holding a small, fuzzy dog; it was the first time that I had ever heard him speak.

"We've always liked your house." he said softly that day in September of 2002, emphasized with a quick shrug as he pointed to the FOR SALE sign. He was still holding the maltese, had it wedged under his armpit in its usual spot, and I wasn't quite sure if he was speaking for him and his wife or for him and the dog. I will never know; it was both the second and the last time that I had ever heard him speak.

"Well. I guess I can't really charge you much in realtor fees for...this." the realtor said to my parents, followed with a nervous laugh.

So we packed our bags, had a quick wedding for my sister in the garden my parents spent 20 years carefully constructing (which is still there just as we left it, by the way--the pond, the gazebo, and the row of colorful birdhouses my dad built), and that was it. We left.

"Ah, so. Um. Where...are you going to go?" my mom then asked awkwardly, giving me a side-eye. It was a pretty excellent question.

"Colorado." I finally told her a few weeks later. Also awkwardly, but it was a pretty excellent answer.

Which is how I ended up on I-90 in that December of '02, 21-years old and scared out of my mind, trying desperately not to show it. 21-year olds aren't supposed to be scared, after all; they are supposed to be daft and foolhardy and brave. Even in moments of complete discomposure--I had been in enough bars, attended enough college parties, and seen enough MTV's Real World at that point in my life to know it.

But I was driving towards a new city, driving towards (perhaps) a new life. It isn't every day that a young girl does this, you know--makes a move! Does something nervy. Packs her bags, leaves her lifelong friends and family, and moves to a big city!

A city with opportunity! A city with adventure! A city that is pretty much just like her old one except a bit bigger, and not quite so flat (mountains blah blah blah), has a longer wait to get into the Olive Garden on a Friday night, and, according to Facebook, is also home to just about half of her graduating class.

(Brrrrrrave!)

But while Denver might have a lot of cozy Midwesternisms about it, it has some important differences too: better restaurants, better shopping, better skiing (sorry Great Bear), bona fide state income taxes (ouch!), sterile Targets that boastfully deem themselves 'super', and the most important thing of all: culture.

Culture that goes beyond corn fields, churches, legalized video lottery, and arguing over which way a naked David statue should face on a busy downtown street. Culture like the DAM (YSL in March!). Culture like Adele Arakawa's never-changing hairdo (I bumped into it her on a flight last year and it's just as amazing in person). Culture like the fun hippies of Boulder, culture like toasty-hot summer shows at Red Rocks, culture like being stuck on I-70 near Georgetown with the rest of the entire state on a snowy Sunday in January, beep-beep-beep-beep-beep.

And culture like BRING IT ON: THE MUSICAL, oh yesss. Fabulous, fabulous culture.

So this is what I wore last Friday, first to a super tasty dinner at The Capital Grille and then while being surrounded by shrieking 10-year old girls at the DCPA--an easy take on winter whites.

(My apologies for these looking a lil' odd - it was cloudy out, so I had to throw on some flash!)

Coat: J Crew Townhouse Trench in Sea Salt (buy it here) (similar here) (style for spring here)

Blouse: Zara (buy it here) (another option at ASOS) (similar here)

Belt: J Crew, old (similar here in "soft pink")

Pants: Madewell, old (similar here) (similar here) (similar here)

Rosegold Bangles: Seasonal Whispers Crystal & Metal Bracelets in Rosegold (buy them here) (similar by Vince Camuto) (similar under $20)

Watch: Michael Kors Oversized Watch in Rosegold (buy it here) (similar for $195) (similar for $115)

Shoes: J Crew Mona Pumps in Pale Peacock (buy them here) (similar here + take 20% off w/ code "NEWYOU")

Bag: Chloe Marcie Crossbody in 'bone', old (similar here) (similar by Fossil) (similar by Michael Kors)

And some fun with prints:

Dress: Forever 21, old (similar here) (similar here) (similar here) (and a more subdued option at ASOS)
Belt: Forever 21, old (similar at Ann Taylor)
Shoes: Manolo Blahnik Uliepe (similar here) (similar for under $25)
Bag: Chloe Paraty in Rosewood (similar here) (similar here) (similar by Miu Miu)

And I finally added a pair of 'basic' black pumps to my artillery, hoorah:

Coat: Old Navy (similar here) (similar here for under $50)
Sweater: Madewell, old (similar here) (and at F21)
Pants: Urban Outfitters (buy them here) (a non-cord option here)
Belt: The Limited, old (similar at Ann Taylor) (similar at ASOS)
Shoes: Christian Louboutin Piou Piou Patent Pumps (buy them here) (similar at Ann Taylor)
Bag: Reed Krakoff Inside Out Satchel, old (similar here) (similar here) (similar at DSW)

Outfit Of The Days (Goin' Green)

2012-01-12T18:42:00.001-07:00

♫: Quarter Chicken Dark - The Goat Rodeo Sessions

I finally had a chance this past week to sit down and peek at some of the major upcoming Spring-Summer 2012 trends. Stores are beginning to quickly fill up with them (and how many e-mails are currently sitting in our inboxes, insensitively pitching sandals and shorts and brightly-hued dresses?), which I think is probably the most bittersweet thing about fashion--it's fun! It changes quickly! And it's January, you nutty geekburgers, and I've never once needed a coral platform wedge sandal or colorblocked tank suit to wear in the snow! Not once.

Weird huh.

I must confess that I have been suppressing the overwhelming urge to yell things like, "oh YOU SHUT UP!" at the bright, springtime objects as I walk through stores and as I frantically delete all of those offensively cheery, warm-weathered e-mails. There is no point in getting angry, after all--if you can't beat them, join them.

(And Husband also claims that shrieking at clothes to shut up isn't normal and really scares people.) (He has apparently never been a 30-year old girl in a dressing room with really bad lighting after a Haagen Dazs Cookie Dough bender, my goodness.)

Minty, seamfoam-y blues and greens are just one of the trends set to be a big for spring, which makes me as happy as a hippo. It has always been one of my favorite hues, and I think that the green-to-blue variations can flatter a lot of different skin tones! They also pair well with everything from neutral colors to pops of neon, too. Just make sure it doesn't make you look sicky in the face--if it does, then opt for a more bluer shade.

I was pretty happy when I found the pretty chiffon blouse that I am wearing below at Zara; it works well now with skinny jeans + pumps, but it's light enough that it should also work easily tucked into high-waisted shorts this summer, too.

I am also still on my tights-eschewing kick. As I have mentioned in previous posts, we've had enough 'warm' days sprinkled in between winter to go without. It can get a little chilly at times, yes, but I try my darndest to keep any unexpected 10-mile nature hikes or surprise cross-country skiing lunch expeditions off my schedule. If you happen to love tights and not pale, winter-anemic legs, however, this look could also probably work with black tights + black booties too. Options!

Jacket: Forever 21 (similar here) (similar here) (similar here)
Top: Zara (buy it here) (a sweater option at ASOS) (a short-sleeve option at Lulu's)
Skirt: Urban Outfitters, old (similar here) (a longer option at ASOS) (and a longer option by Ella Moss)
Belt: J Crew (similar here)
Bracelet: Kendra Scott, c/o (design your own here) (pretty option here for $60) (and at urban outfitters)

Ring: House of Harlow 1960 Long Antler Ring (buy it here, on sale)

Clutch: Tory Burch 797 Clutch (buy it here) (similar by Coach) (this would also work, under $60)

Nail polish: Deborah Lippman Makin' Whoopee (buy it at Beauty.com) (& take $10 off on $50)

And then....we have a whole pile of kitty-cat-crazy:

Coat: Old Navy (buy it here) (similar here + take 10% off w/ "SALE10")
Top: Topshop, old (similar style) (similar here)
Cardigan: Urban Outfitters (similar here) (similar at Express)
Skirt: Forever 21, old (similar here) (similar here + take 10% off w/ "SALE10")
Belt: J Crew, old (similar here)
Ring: YSL Arty in Aqua (buy it here) (similar by Amrita Singh)
Shoes: J Crew Mona Pumps in Pale Peacock (buy them here) (love these in green for under $100)
Handbag: Diane Von Furstenberg Harper Evening Clutch (buy it here)
Nail polish: Deborah Lippman Makin' Whoopee (buy it at Beauty.com) (& take $10 off on $50)

What trends are you most looking forward to this spring? Share in the comments!

Outfits Of The Yesterdays (The Freaky-Warm January Days)

2012-01-06T20:05:00.003-07:00

After the craziness of the holidays, sometimes a lazy evening of staying-at-home-in-your-jammies-while-accidentally-giving-your-husband-the-wrong-number-to-the-pizza-place-so-he-THEN-accidentally-prank-calls-someone-and-then-cruelly-declares-YOU-the-Official-Pizza-Orderer-forever-times-infinity is much needed (sorry hun, ha!), which is exactly what we're doing right now. I'm also catching up on some much-needed blogging and Pinterest-ing, too.

Nothing too new or exciting is happening here in The Life Of Chloe at the moment; all I know is that I laugh my little pants off every time I walk past our fridge and see the newest addition to our hodge podge of fridge magnets via a fab Christmas gift. Ha ha ha! Ha ha! Kitten! Murder! Cute kittens and murder!

Ohhh. So funny.

(And thus ends this thoroughly thought-provoking post of complete nonsensical nothingness; you are welcome. I told you nothing is new here.)

Outfit time. It has been a little toasty here, almost 70 degrees on Wednesday, and you better believe I have been taking advantage of it as much as I can since we have a forecast for snow on Saturday night. Happy weekend, you guys!

Top: Old ASOS (buy it here) (similar here) (similar by J Crew)

Skirt: Old Zara (similar at Topshop) (similar at F21) (similar under $50)

Belt: J Crew (buy it here) (similar here)

Bracelet: Express (buy it here)

Necklace: ALDO Accessories (I can't find anything - this by Kendra Scott is close-ish)

Watch: Michael Kors Oversized Watch in Rosegold (buy it here) (similar for $195) (similar for $115)

Nail Polish: Chanel Black Pearl (buy it here)

Shoes: J Crew Perfectly Patent Pumps (similar here) (similar here in light pink patent, under $100) (similar here in suede)

♫: Satellite - The Kills

Blouse: Old ASOS (similar here) (similar at UO) (and at F21)

Belt: Old Urban Outfitters (similar here) (similar here)

Skirt: Rag & Bone Ashton Skirt (buy it here) (similar here) (under $100 here)

Shoes: J Crew Mona Pumps in Pale Peacock (buy them here) (& love these by Steve Madden)

Bracelet: Old GAP (similar here)

Ring: Tigers Eye Ring Banana Republic (similar here)

Watch: Michael Kors Oversized Watch in Rosegold (buy it here) (similar for $195) (similar for $115)

Bag: Chloe Paraty in Rosewood (similar here) (similar here) (similar by Miu Miu)

♫: Satellite - The Kills

Blazer: J Crew Library Blazer (buy it here) (similar here)

Top: Ann Taylor (similar here) (similar here)

Belt: Michael Kors (similar here)

Skirt: Madewell (similar here) (love this, too!)

Necklace: Tomahawk Feather Necklace (buy it here)

Rosegold Bangles: Seasonal Whispers Crystal & Metal Bracelets in Rosegold (buy them here) (similar by Vince Camuto) (similar under $20)

Watch: Michael Kors Oversized Watch in Rosegold (buy it here) (similar for $195) (similar for $115)

Shoes: Jean Michael Cazabet Fish Scale Ivanka Pumps (buy them here, on sale) (more sizes here!)
Bag: Fendi B-Bag (similar here) (similar here)

♫: Satellite - The Kills

Outfit Of The Yesterdays (A Little Bit Of Lace, A Little Bit Of Leopard)

2012-01-03T19:47:00.000-07:00

Is there a trend out there that you still like to wear even if it has fallen off of the regnant-fashion-radar?

High-waisted pencil skirts with wide (corset-ish) waistbands were all the rage a few years ago, and while that ship has happily sailed out of most closets...I must confess that I'm still a bit of a sucker for them. The new ones, I mean--not the "Bebe And/Or Express Beasty Boudoir" skirts of yore. Cough.

Why do I like them? Pencil skirts in general are not kind to my super short, apple/ruler shape; and so a skirt with a wider waistband helps pull eyes upward while also inventing a bit of a waist--a miracle of miracles that most standard pencil skirts simply cannot create for me. I found the skirt that I am wearing below at H&M recently and was happy with how wearable it was for its price ($36!)--the lacy tiers also help to conceal some of my lumps and bumps and the wider, ruched waistband holds my chiffon blouses prettily in place. Woohoo:

Blouse: Miss Selfridge (buy it here) (similar at J Crew) (similar on sale at ASOS) (similar at Shopbop + take 20% off with code "EXTRA20")
Skirt: H&M (similar here) (similar at Topshop) (similar under $100)
Ring: Banana Republic, last year (similar here) (similar at Kate Spade + take 25% off w/ code "EXTRA25")
Bracelet: c/o Kendra Scott (design your own here) (pretty option here for $60) (and at urban outfitters)
Shoes: Manolo Blahnik Uliepe Pumps (similar here) (similar by Kate Spade)
Bag: Diane Von Furstenberg Harper Day Clutch (similar here) (similar by bcbgmaxazria, on sale) (and under $50 here)
♫: Atlantic - Givers

And it's officially that time of year again: New Year's Resolution Time! Have you made any yet? My #1 resolution this year is to take (more) pictures of myself posing like a 'toon.

(noooo idea.) (but not coincidentally, I walk around JUST like this in my fuzzy slippers for the first 90 minutes that I'm awake each day, arthritis-zombie-mode. so! just keeping it really rill here.)

...and my second resolution is to not properly clean my floors before taking pictures to post on the internets to thousands of people. I try to choose things that won't be too challenging, you know? And I'm happy to report that I'm doing splendid on both fronts. Is there anything I can't do? ~~Yes. Cartwheels. Dark comedies Pie crusts. British accents. And my own taxes.~~ Nope!

Jacket: Rory Beca (buy it here) (similar here, on sale) (similar here, under $100)
Top: Tibi, old (similar here) (similar at Target in "terra cotta") (similar at F21)
Pants: Madewell from last year (similar in "mustard") (similar here)
Belt: J Crew (similar at LOFT)
Shoes: J Crew Mona Oxford Glitter Pumps (buy them here) (similar here) (and a pointy-toe version here)
Bag: Marc Jacobs Cooper Bag in Nude (buy it here) (a smaller version here) (and at Topshop)
Bracelets: Seasonal Whispers Crystal & Metal Bracelets in Rosegold (buy them here) (similar by Vince Camuto) (similar under $20)
Lipstick: Rouge Dior Lipcolor -Blazing Red 638 (Sephora)
Nails: Butter London - Macbeth (Beauty.com)
♫: Atlantic - Givers

What resolutions did you set this year? Share in the comments! ♥

Happy New Year!

2012-01-01T07:03:00.034-07:00

2011 was packed full of lots of goodies: from the beginning of a major home remodel (part 2 is coming this way in Spring 2012) to lots of travel; from awesome time spent with good friends to the very best thing of all--celebrating a five year wedding anniversary to Husband! What an amazing year.

I would also like to thank every single one of you from the bottom of my heart for reading and being part of both The Chloe Conspiracy & See Chloe Shop; it means the absolute world to me! Happy New Year and lots of love, you guys! Here's looking to an even better 2012. ♥

(& just a few of my favorite photos from this past year, too--enjoy!)

(ya want it bigger, do you? click to see a full-sized image)

Outfit Of The Yesterdays (Get Your Gold, Girl)

2011-12-29T13:12:00.001-07:00

Just a super quick post for today with two recent outfits--enjoy.

Blazer: Nordstrom's junior brand (similar here + take 20% off with code "SNOWDAY") (similar here for $40) (similar here for $40)

Top: GAP (similar at Ann Taylor) (similar at Shopbop) (similar at ASOS)

Pants: J Crew Bi-Stretch Wool Minis in Warm Redwood (buy them here) (similar here for $30) (similar at Old Navy)

Belt: ASOS (buy it here)

Shoes: J Crew Perfectly Patent Pumps (similar here) (similar here in light pink patent, under $100) (similar here in suede)

Ring: F21 (similar here)

Bag: DVF Harper Bon Bon (similar here) (similar here) (similar here, under $100)

Polish: Nars Polish in Versailles (buy it here)
♫: Doomsday - Elvis Perkins

Jacket: Rachel Zoe Military Jacket (buy it here) (similar here + take 50% off) (similar at Forever 21)
Blouse: Urban Outfitters (buy it here + take 20% off with code "SNOWDAYS") (similar at ASOS + take 10% off with code "LATE10") (similar here for $35)
Skirt: J Crew Vintage Violet Classic Mini in Felted Wool (buy it here) (similar here)
Belt: J Crew (similar at Banana Republic)
Watch: Michael Kors Oversized Watch in Rosegold (buy it here) (similar for $195) (similar for $115)
Rosegold Bangles: Seasonal Whispers Crystal & Metal Bracelets in Rosegold (buy them here) (similar by Vince Camuto) (similar under $20)
Cuff Bracelet: GAP (similar here)
Vine Ring: Gorjana (buy it here)
Necklace: Auden Devon Crystal Necklace (buy it here)
Flats: Lanvin Python flats (buy them here) (similar by Steve Madden in "gold snake") (& similar here)
♫: Doomsday - Elvis Perkins

Happy Holidays (Outfit Of The Friday + Photo Collage Time!)

2011-12-26T21:42:00.002-07:00

Merry Christmas, you guys! Did ya get anything good? ♥

Christmas for us was fairly low-key and comfy this year. We celebrated with Husband's side of the family and dined on a huge feast of goodies which included turkey, baked mac & cheese, bread with garlic cilantro butter, bacon brown sugar ice cream, lemon-basil cherry pie, garlic mashed potatoes, some sort of sweet potato soup, and 'mystery myan cookies'--which looked all enticing and chocolatey and sweet on the outside but inside had a mean, vicious blast of pepper. Ow.

Husband's brother did almost all of the cooking, with the aid of his 13-year old daughter (my niece), and oh my goodness. It was insane. Since I know that they also sometimes read my blog: it was so good, you guys! And our offer still stands on having ya'll over to our place next year for frozen chicken nuggets (we'll even be festive and do dinosaur shaped) and Husband's Famous As Long As Chloe Doesn't Sneakily Eat All Of The Ice Cream First Like She Always Does Chocolate Malts™.

(I might even re-tell the one awkward Chuck Norris joke I know too, if you're lucky, but you'll just have to wait and see! A good hostess never gives her secrets away EVEN IF they include dressing a chihuahua up to look like Christopher Walken playing a Drunk Mall Santa Claus for pure entertainment, ahem.)

Moving on. Below is a little photo montage of some pictures that I recently snapped. Some are old outfits I have yet to post, and others I took while Husband and I were bumming around at home this weekend. You can click on any picture below to get a larger/full snapshot, too! I'm getting fancy:

1. A funny little sign courtesy of my parents.

2. Christmas tree!

3. Nothing gets between a chihuahua and her stogie, er, chewie stick.

4. Happiness is a warm sunspot and a chewie.

5.Well, someone likes her Christmas gift.

6. A few pretty, sparkly hostess gifts to give!

7. A very pretty new gray lace skirt courtesy of H&M (retails for $35) pairs well with hot pink + camel shoes.

8. A festive manicure.

9. I miss warm weather days.

10. This doormat makes me laugh every time.

11. On my way to Martha Stewart-ing the shiznit out of my wrappings (wrapping gifts is one of my favorite things to do!)

12. Some of the great gifties from my side of the family.

13. Somebody has a favorite human.

14. Hi-five, go us!

I took the holiday pictures above mostly to share with my family, as we were separated by 300 to 600 miles this Christmas....but also for things like the super entertaining snippet of Facebook commentary below that thus ensued:

So clearly my gramma has been accidentally eating bunny-shaped dog biscuits thinking they're Christmas cookies again (just kidding gramma!) (love you!) (even if I did totally catch you accidentally doing that one year!) and I just bet you can't guess which one is my dad. This little crab-apple doesn't fall far from her tree; I love ~~bunny-shaped dog biscuits~~ my family and missed having them around this year. ♥

And last but certainly not least, here's a quick outfit. I wore this out Friday for a wild & crazy date night in downtown Denver. I love a good, slightly puffy skirt and so when I saw this one by Full Circle it was super-love at first sight. Better yet? It's made out of a really heavy fabric, meaning no having to worry about it blowing up in the winter wind. It also has pockets, as all good skirts should, and the wider waistband adds just the right shape to keep it slimming and flattering on the wearer. It does run extremely small, though, so if you're interested size up! I usually wear a size 2 in pants and I'm wearing a US6 below--I couldn't even get the US4 zipped up.

I also snapped these pictures as we were racing out the door and into the sad, murky darkness of a wintery 4:30pm, so I apologize that they look a little off. It's bettuh than nothin':

Jacket (not pictured): Rachel Zoe Military Jacket (buy it here) (similar here + take 50% off) (similar at Forever 21)
Top: Isabel Lu Lace Top (similar here) (similar by Tibi) (similar at ASOS) (similar at Free People) (similar at Forever 21 + ships for free, 12/26 only)

Skirt: Full Circle Skirt (buy it here, on sale!) (similar here for $34.99 ) (and a version in a longer length, too)

Watch: Michael Michael Kors Oversized watch in Rosegold (buy it here) (similar for $195) (similar for $115)
Rosegold Bangles: Seasonal Whispers Crystal & Metal Bracelets in Rosegold (buy them at Nordstrom)

Shoes: Christian Louboutin Neo Mars Kitten Heels (buy them here) (and an option from Kate Spade, too)

Bag: Lanvin Happy Mini Pop in Gold Python (buy it here) (similar here) (similar under $200) (similar under $100)

♫: Gold On The Ceiling - The Black Keys

Outfit Of The Yesterdays (It's Beginning To Look A Lot Like Something)

2011-12-23T12:43:00.002-07:00

Oh, it's been a busy past few weeks around my parts again, and I am just (kind of) going on auto-pilot until Sunday morning rolls around. Sunday morning is caramel-roll-time! And puppy-time. And Vince Guaraldi-time, presents-time, and staying in our jammies ALL DAY TIME YES.

I am playing catch up again with some outfits here, so let's get to it. Colorado finally got a hard blast of winter this week, but before that it was warm enough to be outside sans jacket. Colorado, in fact, is the only place I know where you can often see people shoveling snow while only wearing t-shirts.

(And sitting in their cars for 72 hours up I-70 in December just to go skiing.)

(And, um...willingly electing fuzzy house pets as their serious government officials.)

I digress. One of my favorite parts of the holidays is having friends & family in town, and I picked up the skirt that I am wearing below for $10 at Forever 21 during one of our many Christmas Gift Shopping Expeditions.

I will admit that when I first saw neon colors popping up on the runways and in magazines I gave them a hearty roll of my eyeballs, but I think when done in carefully measured doses they can actually be...fun? Maybe not a let's-keep-our-lipglosses-in-our-purses-while-going-through-airport-security-to-see-if-they-find-them-cuz-they-never-do! sort of fun, but more of a let's-go-to-Disney-Land-and-take-pictures-of-us-high-fiving-Chip-and-Dale-because-everyone-always-forgets-about-them sort of fun. Right? Exactly.

So what is the best way to wear eyeball-burningly-bright pieces? Neon pieces, I feel, are best paired with neutral hues. Think camel, grays, taupes, olives, and rusts--they really let brighter colors pop.

I am also tightless in the outfit below mostly because I hate wearing them; I've always been okay with being bare-legged. It must be my hearty south-dakotan-lefse-and-butter-fueled-blood. Delicious.

Ta ta ta:

Coat: Old Navy (buy it here) (similar here) (similar at ASOS, on sale!) (love this at Topshop, too)

Sweater: Madewell (similar here) (similar at Forever 21) (similar at Piperlime for $31.99)

Skirt: Forever 21 (buy it here) (and a longer length version here)

Belt: J Crew Factory (similar here) (similar at Topshop in peach)

Shoes: J crew (similar here) (similar here)

Bag: Marc Jacobs Cooper in nude (buy it here) (similar, under $150) (similar at Topshop)

Watch: Michael Michael Kors Oversized watch in Rosegold (buy it here) (similar for $195) (similar for $115)
♫: White Winter Hymnal - Fleet Foxes

I also picked up this little beaded pouch from Urban Outfitters last week, and while I am using it as a pseudo gift bag for a Christmas gift, it's a fantastic little bag for only $50. It also proves that pretty handbags don't always need to cost thousands, right?

When going cheap I stay away from faux leather handbags, as they almost always look slightly fake and plastic-y, but since fabric bags lack that element they can oftentimes look a lot more expensive than they actually are. This little bag even has iridescent sequins that give it a bit of shimmer without being over-the-top sparkly, woo hoo hoo:

Pouch: Kimchi Blue (buy it here + take 10% off with code "seeyousoon")

Are you guys rocking neon colors this winter? Share in the comments!

Currently Loving (December 2011)

2011-12-19T13:26:00.002-07:00

I am making a list, checking it twice: it's that awesome monthly feature where I pretend like I've never heard of Pinterest, oh-yes oh-yes oh-yes. Here are 11 little things that I am loving this snowy month of December...

1. Printed Dress (zara.com) - pretty dress, pretty print, very pretty price.

2. Kara Ross Sidra Shoulder Bag (neimanmarcus.com) - combines everything I love in one very pretty package.

3. Lanvin Python Minaudiere (neimanmarcus.com) - I am definitely having a snakey-little-moment, and Lanvin always does it right. This gorgeous minaudiere even comes with a chain so you don't have to fumble with it all night long, hooray.

4. Stolen Girlfriend's Club Printed Maxi Skirt (asos.com) - this skirt is perfect for anyone that likes showing off their legs but hates the over-exposed vulnerability of a true mini skirt.

5.Tom Ford Calgary Oversized Sunglasses (nordstrom.com) - colorful sunglasses are just one of the many trends on tap for Spring 2012; these frames have a subtle touch of color mirroring pretty, neutral stripes and a cool, oversized shape.

6. Seamed Detail Waist-Tie Coat (reissonline.com) - Reiss is a relative newcomer to the world of fashion (at least for us girls, as their womenswear line launched in 2000) but oh, how I love them so. This UK-based retailer is stuffed full of sleek, pretty, and polished items--this coat is no exception.

7. Devon Crystal Necklace & Devon Crystal Bracelet (audendesign.com) - I love unique pieces of jewelry, and this NYC-based jeweler combines funky mixes of metal, swarovski crystals, and semi-precious stones to create seriously stunning pieces.

8. Cut Glass Candle in Goji Tarocco Orange (goji berry at anthropologie.com) - I typically dislike 'fruity' home fragrances, but the mix of goji berry and tarocco orange smells tangy, clean, and not over-sweet. I picked it up for myself at Anthropologie yesterday and have been burning it ever since!

9. Short Chevron Faux Fur Gilet (topshop.com) - a faux fur vest is a must for winter, and I love that this gilet is slim fitting with a soft and swanky print.

10. Butter 3 Free London Nail Lacquer in 'Macbeth' (zappos.com) - I am currently rebelling against the dark hues normally associated with winter, and this orangey coral is the perfect way to do it! I like it paired with turquoise, yellow gold, rose gold, and burgundy (see here!).

11. Pebble Dinnerware (zgallerie.com) - I spotted this yesterday in-store and it was hard to not bring it home with me! While the entire set can be a bit much, the pebble pattern looks beautiful as a charger sitting under white, asymmetrical gold-rimmed dishes (like these at west elm!)

I've shared mine, so now share yours: what's currently on your Christmas wishlist? Share away in the comments! ♥

Outfit Of The Day (Colors On Black)

2011-12-14T19:09:00.002-07:00

{we finally put our christmas tree up!}

Really super quick post for today: while I am not always a huge fan of the color black, I was pretty excited at how this colorful dress looked against the dark hue. It really makes the colors pop, hm?

Vest: Jennifer Lopez Kohls (similar here) (similar at LOFT) (similar at F21)
Dress: Lulus (buy it here) (similar here) (a pretty printed dress here) (and by Tibi) (and at Shop Ruche)
Bracelet: J Crew (similar here) (and at F21 for $7.80)
Ring: Yves Saint Laurent Arty Ring in Aqua (buy it here) (similar by Amrita Singh - 40% off, today only)
Booties: Christian Dior Serpent Booties (similar by Lanvin) (similar by Kate Spade)
Bag: Diane Von Furstenberg Harper Bon Bon Satchel (similar here) (similar at Endless) (similar at Topshop for $50)

Nails: NCLA Nail Stickers in Pink Rainbow (buy them here)

♫: Somebody That I Used To Know - Gotye

Outfit Of The Day (Take Your Cause And Pass It Around...)

2011-12-11T12:11:00.006-07:00

Are you guys getting pumped for Christmas? I know I am--my holiday cards are finally ready to mail out, my kitchen is stocked full of ingredients for cut-out cookies and homemade cinnamon ice cream, and my stacks of holiday catalogs have been poured over so thoroughly it'd put the 9-year old Chloe with her 500-page JC Penney Wish Book to shame. Shame!

(I lived for those catalogs when I was little--anyone else? Yet no matter how hard I actually wished, I never did receive the Lady Lovely Locks Magic Castle, Talking Alf, Rock Tumbler, Ninja Pajamas with Matching Perfectly Fluffed Yet Horrifically Bad 80's Hair, or "The Calling Card" with a Backup Battery System and Confidential Access Code, UGH) (Greetings from Wrangler and Moss Creek Trader, indeed.)

But even though I'm ready for Christmas, there are still a lot of people that aren't. And I'm not talking about ~~those freaky people that get some sort of weird rush out of shopping for presents at Walgreens on December 24th at 11:59pm~~ my dad, oh no.

I am talking about those that are in need and may not be able to afford to give a sort of holiday celebration that they think their family deserves--or any holiday celebration at all.

No matter what holiday you celebrate this December, it is the season of giving--and one of my favorite things to do is to take a moment to remember those that are less fortunate and do something to help out. Here are three quick tips & ideas in case you're looking to get in on the charity-action, too:

Toys for Tots - Run by the Marines, this charity exists in nearly every major US City and is almost always in need. They set up donation bins at several locations which makes it easy to donate; head here to search and find one close to you!
We are all familiar with "wish trees"; they used to set one up in the mall every year when I lived in South Dakota, full of children's names and requests for toys. But did you know that many nursing homes are beginning to do this for their residents, too? A good, personal friend recently tipped me off to this (thanks Cindi!), and they work much in the same way as the regular wish trees. The requests range from actual gifts (like socks, blankets) to simple things like a hug or a smile. Just make sure to give the local retirement home a call first before you head out, since I think this might be a fairly new (but brilliant) trend.
Want to give to a local charity but unsure if they are actually legit? Make sure to hit sites like Charity Navigator before you open up your wallet; it provides ratings and transparency to thousands of organizations. They also have a fascinating "top ten list" section, which includes lists like "10 Charities Worth Watching", "10 Celebrity-Related Charities", and "10 Highly Paid CEOs at Low-Rated Charities" (oh snap!).
Or check out the website of any local news station. They will often do the grunt-work (and charity background checks!) for you and feature legit, local organizations that need the most help this season.

So! Go forth and do some good, readers. ♥

That prattling aside, it is outfit time. I grabbed this Isabel Lu lace blouse for a steal last month during a sale on Hautelook (I even documented it over on Facebook, I was so smitten) and when the blouse finally arrived, I wasn't let down. Something about the scalloped trim, slim fit, and black-lace-on-nude reminds me of something very pretty; something very Valentino-esque.

While I paired it with slightly androgynous pants below, I can't wait to pair this puppy with full skirts, too. I will never get sick of a pretty blouse:

Jacket: Rory Beca Moss Jacket (buy it here) (similar here at LOFT) (similar at Forever 21)

Top: Isabel Lu (similar here) (similar at nordstrom for $88) (similar at ASOS for $34) (similar at ASOS) (similar at F21 for $19.80)

Pants: ASOS (buy them here)

Necklace: ALDO Accessories (similar here)

Shoes: J Crew Perfect Patent Pumps (similar here) (similar by Nine West) (another option by Nine West)

Bag: Kooba Josie Clutch (similar at Topshop) (similar here)

Lips: Nars Dolce Vita + Fantasia Lip Liner (buy it here) (and here)

Nails: NCLA Nail Stickers in Pink Rainbow (buy them here)

♫: Beat The Horse (Pomplamoose Cover) - Science for Girls

While I have been slightly obsessed with this pretty coat ever since it first popped up on Forever 21, the product picture made me do a bit of a shifty side-eye.

It just looked so pretty. Too pretty, in fact, for Forever 21.

Forever 21 has been selling quite a few things this season at slighty higher price points, and while I am typically not keen on plopping down $42 for a coat from Forever 21, this coat is worth it. I think it might even be the best thing I've found at that store this year. It is well made, fits nicely through the bust (so many of their coats have been running big in that area lately),and the sleeves are nicely shaped without being costumey.

It also has a handy belt (which makes it wearable for almost all shapes and sizes) and while it won't keep me warm on a subzero day, it is weighty enough to throw over dresses this winter as long as the temps don't dip too much below freezing.

I love this coat so much that I have even purchased it to give to someone as a gift, woohoo:

Coat: Forever 21 (buy it here) (similar at Target) (similar at Banana Republic)

Blouse: J Crew Lucinda Silk Blouse (similar here) (similar here) (similar by Free People, on sale)

Skirt: J Crew Jardin Skirt (similar here) (similar at American Apparel)

Belt: J Crew Factory (similar at GAP in "gravel")

Necklace: Old Ann Taylor (similar here by MBMJ) (similar here + take 40% off w/ "GET40")

Ring: Yves Saint Laurent Arty Ring in Aqua (buy it here) (similar by Amrita Singh)

Shoes: Manolo Blahnik Uliepe Pumps (similar by Kate Spade) (similar by Casadei) (similar here, under $20)

Bag: Chanel Crackled Patent Camel Classic Flap (similar here) (and here by DKNY) (and here for under $100)

♫: Beat The Horse (Pomplamoose Cover) - Science for Girls

Outfit Of The Days (Fancier Follies)

2011-12-04T13:48:00.042-07:00

Oh, nothing new for this week. I wish I had some exciting updates, but I don't--aside from the fact that I was knocked silly for the past few days, feeling as if someone used my entire lower-body as a punching bag. Crippling, crappy-ling pain, woohoo.

And I know ya'll are likely wondering--whatcha doing, Chloe? Have you been training for a marathon? Moonlighting as a roller derby roller girl? Getting in shape to partake in next year's Lumberjack Days? Still trying to teach Petunia how to do the Dougie and the Stanky Leg? (Come on girl! It's useless! Give it up! Everyone knows that chihuahuas lack natural rhythm!)

Oh no; no no. It's just arthritis, and there ain't no party like a watch-Chloe-get-out-of-bed-in-the-morning-and-walk-like-a-drunk-penguin-for-2-hours-straight party. Heyyyy. Ho.

Here are some outfits from the days where my body wasn't giving me the middle finger, thank you.

Vest: Ann Taylor (similar here) (similar here) (similar here for under $30)

Fur: H&M (similar here + take 25% off with code "MACYSFF") (similar here) (similar here, on sale)

Blouse: Forever 21 (buy it here + take 10% off on orders of $100+ with code "TENOFF") (similar here)

Pants: The LImited (similar here) (similar here)

Collar Necklace: F21 (similar here for $21) (similar here)

Fringe Bangles: F21 (buy them here)

Gold Braided Bracelet: t+j designs (buy it here)

Watch: Michael Michael Kors Runway Rosegold Watch (buy it here + take 25% off with code "MACYSFF") (similar here for under $150)

Bag: Chloe Paraty in Rosewood (similar here) (similar here by DKNY) (and here, too)

I have been pretty excited over the re-emergence of drop-waist dresses for Spring 2012--it might even be one of my favorite upcoming trends. Isn't it interesting how closely the fashion industry mimics the entertainment industry, though? We all know that the recent abundance of pleated skirts, mid-length dresses, kitten heels, and bow blouses were fueled by one Don + Betty Draper; no doubt the flapper dress trend is being pushed by The Great Gatsby (and Mr. Luhrman totally trying his darn hardest to ruin it). This country is foolishly-obsessed with that book, I think (and...I'm probably the most foolishly-obsessed fool of all).

Drop-waist dresses are surprisingly flattering; their looser shapes wear well on almost all body types. And in spite of visually elongating the torso, the illusion doesn't necessarily make the wearer look short and stumpy. It's kind of fascinating how that works, actually. Magical!

Cardigan: J Crew Perfect Mix-Tape Cardigan in Bronzed Twig (similar here) (similar here in olive)

Dress: Darling Embroidered Drop Waist Dress (buy it here) (similar here) (similar here)

Necklace: Ann Taylor (buy it here) (similar here + take 30% off)

Wrap Bracelet: Old F21 (similar here)

Black + Gold Bracelet: F21 (similar here)

Ring: Banana Republic (similar here) (love this for $24, too)

Earrings: Kendra Scott Darby Earrings in Tigers Eye (buy them here!)

Clutch: The Limited (similar by Sandra Roberts) (similar at ASOS, $35) (similar at Express, 30% off) (similar by ALDO, $40)

Shoes: J Crew Mona Pumps in Wild Berry (buy them here) (similar here) (similar here for $60)

And last but certainly not least--I had never really experimented with lip color prior to this year, but I am now having fun with it. I have never been a fan of my mouth (I find it to be oddly shaped and wide), so I have always believed that slapping a bold color on top would only draw more attention to its weirdness. Maybe it does, but it is also kind of fascinating how different a bright red lip (+ a startled chihuahua) made this outfit look:

Blazer: Old Anthropologie (similar at Forever 21) (and this cardigan would work well, too!)

Top: Old Anthropologie/Weston Wear (similar here in "red topaz") (and at Old Navy)

Skirt: J Crew Felted Wool Mini (buy it here) (similar at WHBM + take 10% off with code "9525")

Belt: J Crew (buy it here)

Clutch: ASOS (buy it here) (and a gorgeous option with a strap)

Shoes: Old Lela Rose for Payless (similar at WHBM) (and by Sam Edelman)

Lipstick: Rouge Dior Lipcolor in Blazing Red (buy it at Sephora)

(Currently listening)
Codes And Keys (Yeasayer Remix) by Death Cab For Cutie on Grooveshark

Outfit Of The Days (Gobble Gobble Gobble)

2011-11-28T21:25:00.004-07:00

Did you guys have a good Thanksgiving? Good! I did too. I mean, I don't think there can be such a thing as a bad Thanksgiving, unless you are a turkey (oops) and/or me 3 years ago, when I had the Chillness Illness That Brought Everything To a Standstillness, that ended with me eating barely-defrosted beef stew in a crockpot by myself at 9pm at night.

(Some of you long-time readers might remember that I also gave everyone in my household the Chillness Illness That Brought Everything To a Standstillness Part 2 for Christmas that very same year. It was the only year we all lost weight over the holidays, and I am still waiting patiently by the mailbox for the Thank You cards. I saved you people a whole month (or six) of blood, sweat, and toil at the gym! You are welcome, family. Very welcome.)

(Also, the poorly executed rhyme above has been brought to you by Rhymer by WriteExpress...because I almost went with "Limekiln-ness" instead of "Standstillness" and gosh that would have been awkward, huh?) (And possibly a little scary, too.)

Here's what I wore to gorge myself on Turkey day. Can you see the blank stare in my eyes? Some people (me!) like to call that tryptophan trance, oh boy:

Top: Coast Estelle Blouse (buy it here at ASOS) (similar here) (similar at GAP)

Skirt: ASOS (similar at J Crew) (similar at ASOS) (similar at F21) (long version here)

Belt: J Crew Factory (similar here) (similar here)

Necklace: Old Ann taylor (similar here + take 50% off) (similar here at ASOS) (similar here + take 50% off)

Flats: Miu Miu Bejeweled Flats (similar here, under $100) (similar here) (love these, too!)

Ring: House of Harlow Antler Ring (buy it here + take 20% off with code "HUGECYBER")

Purse: DVF Harper Clutch (similar style here)

Coat: Rory Beca Moss Jacket (buy it here) (similar here for $50) (and similar at F21)

And two more outfits, too:

Jacket: Parker Bugle Bead Jacket (buy it here) (similar at F21)

Tank: Old Banana Republic (similar here)

Scarf: ASOS (buy it here, on sale!)

Pants: Old Madewell (similar here) (and here in mustard) (and here)

Necklace: J Crew (similar here)

Ring: H&M (similar here) (and here)

Watch: Michael Kors Oversized Runway in Rosegold (similar here) (and here for under $150)

Shoes: J Crew Perfect Patent Pumps (similar here) (and here on sale)

Bag: Chanel Crackled Patent Camel Classic Flap (similar here) (and here by DKNY) (and here for under $100)

Jacket: Nordstrom (similar here) (similar at F21)

Blouse: J Crew Talitha Blouse (buy it here)

Belt: J Crew (similar here for $14) (similar here for $9)

Skirt: J Crew Felted Wool Mini (similar here)

Necklace: Ann Taylor (buy it here) (similar here for under $20)

Bracelet: GAP (similar here) (similar here for under $20)

Ring: Banana Republic Tigers Eye Ring (buy it here) (similar style here)

Shoes: J Crew Valentina Pumps in Vibrant Coral (buy them here) (similar here for under $100) (and a splurge by Miu Miu)

Bag: Tory Burch 797 clutch (buy it here, on sale)

See Chloe Shop (Happening Today - Cyber Monday)

2011-11-28T07:41:00.000-07:00

{take up to $100 off on your entire order at endless.com - today only!}

Good Monday morning, you guys! It's officially Cyber Monday, which means nearly every single retailer out there is offering some sort of insane sale today, and I've added over 30 new sales so far today for retailers like ASOS, Bath and Body Works, Endless (up to $100 off!), The Limited (50% off + free shipping on all orders), Kohl's (20% off + free shipping on all orders), Bloomingdale's ($50 off on orders of $250+), Neiman Marcus (gift card event - earn up to $500), Saks Fifth Avenue (new designer markdowns), Theory (30% off + free shipping on all orders), Ann Taylor (50% off sitewide, today only), and lots more--there are over 70 sales/retailers on the list!

And don't forget--nearly every single sale on the list is also ending tonight, so hit them up while you still can...

READ MORE >>

Outfit Of The Day (Five Ways Of Fun + Finding Inspiration In Fashion Blogging)

2011-11-20T12:30:00.015-07:00

Why do you love fashion blogging?

This question has popped into my head a few different times as of late, for whatever reason, and isn't it important to stop and think about things..especially if they keep popping up in your fluffy, fluffy head?

You know, to really ponder the important questions; even if it's over complicated things like liking or not liking fashion blogging, and if a shirtless Ryan Gosling fell in the forest would Lassie come back to life to save him (of course), and MAD MEN, HEY, WHERE THE GOSH DARN ARE YOU? (Come baaack.)

I know why I like fashion blogging--it has been really neat meeting a whole new group of girls from all over the US that share similar interests as me that I would never otherwise have met. It has even been neat meeting people here in Colorado that I, all things considered, would have probably never have met. Oh, the world wide web is fancy that way.

One of my favorite things about fashion blogging is drawing inspiration from all of the incredibly talented bloggers out there--from The glamorous Glamourai to Anh at 9 to 5 Chic to Jean at Extra Petite (isn't it great having other options than dressing like a soccer mom or a sailor, as it seems most retailers think us shorties should do?), not to mention the fashion-AND-beauty bloggers like Andi at Saltwater Dreams and Veronika over at Veronika's Blushing AND those-that-take-the-prettiest-pictures and post about pretty things like Rosa at Rosa Loves DC and Shannon at Happiness Is--just to name a few.

I do try to remain open to constructive criticism the best I can, however, and one of the most common complaints I read about fashion bloggers is that at times....we aren't very relatable.

And I do agree. The farther I go along with this, the more ballsy I have become with experimenting with my own style, and so I realize that my sense of style and some of the pieces that I wear might not exactly be do-able for a lot of women out there.

That is okay! It's the great thing about defining your own personal style. If we all dressed the same, wouldn't that be boring?

Oh, it would be incredibly boring. But that being said, there are still ways to be inspired even if the exact items found on fashion blogs aren't always practical for every single woman in this world. Here are my two biggest tips:

1. Look for inspiration in unlikely places. I find inspiration for my outfits all over the place: from fellow bloggers, Pinterest, magazines, TV shows, paintings, photographs, catalogs--whatever! Charming mixtures of colors, shapes, patterns, and textures can be found everywhere in this big, wild world; you just have to look at things the right way.

2. It's okay to play with and swap items; accessories are the easiest to switch around! For example, I might replace leopard heels with a leopard belt, or swap a neon-hued bag for a bangle. The idea is to use things that you already have in your closet and feel comfortable wearing to replicate an outfit you like, and there are easily a gazillion different ways to do it. It also gives the copied/inspired outfit a touch of your own style, too.

These tips might take a little bit of creativity and an extra 10 minutes in the closet, but the more you do it the easier it gets. Promise.

So with this in mind, I would like to introduce a new reoccurring series here where I take two or three pieces and accessorize them five different ways. It will be a bit of a fun departure from my usual Outfit Of The Day posts, I think, and will add a bit of visualization to my thoughts above. I hope you guys like it. :)

(Note: While none of my outfits below contain tights, as Colorado is going through an odd bout of mild weather, they would still work in most of these outfits--I'd stick with a slightly ribbed/sheer black if you do to let the colors of the outfits pop and if you don't like bright shoes with tights, stick with black, flats, booties or heels.. Don't like short skirts? I included some longer-length skirts in my picks below, too--and don't forget the J Crew's Bi-Stretch Wool Minnie Pant in Henna, which is a beautiful, rusty red and perfect for those that don't like wearing skirts at all!)

Enjoy!

Coat: Topshop, NLA (similar at F21) (or this coat + this lapel collar)
Top: Ann Taylor Charming Long-sleeve Blouse in Black Cherry (buy it here) (similar here) (similar at nordstrom) (& at anthropologie)
Belt: J Crew (similar here)
Skirt: ASOS (similar at J Crew) (similar at ASOS) (similar at F21) (long version here)
Ring: YSL Arty in Aqua/Green (buy it here) (similar here)
Shoes: Valentino Rockstud Python Flats (buy them here) (similar here) (similar at Endless)
Bag: Chanel Crackled Patent Camel Classic Flap (similar here) (and here by DKNY) (and here for under $100)

Jacket: Tibi, NLA (similar at GAP) (similar here) (similar at WHBM, on sale + take $20 off with "19671")
Top: Ann Taylor Charming Long-sleeve Blouse in Black Cherry (buy it here) (similar here) (similar at nordstrom) (& at anthropologie)
Belt: J Crew, NLA (similar here)
Ring: Forever 21 (similar here)
Skirt: ASOS, NLA (similar at J Crew) (similar at ASOS) (similar at F21) (long version here)

Shoes: Manolo Blahnik Uliepe Pumps in Yellow (similar here - 25% off) (love these at anthropologie)

Clutch: ASOS (buy it here + 10% off with code "BONUSTEN") (similar here with a chain strap)

Cardigan: Urban Outfitters, NLA (similar here) (similar at UO, on sale)
Top: Ann Taylor Charming Long-sleeve Blouse in Black Cherry (buy it here) (similar here) (similar at nordstrom) (& at anthropologie)
Belt: J Crew (buy it here, runs big!) (similar at ASOS)
Skirt: ASOS, NLA (similar at J Crew) (similar at ASOS) (similar at F21) (long version here)

Blue Bracelet: Forever 21, NLA (similar here)

Black/Gold Bracelet: Forever 21 (similar here)

Watch: Michael Kors Blair in Espresso (buy it here)

Shoes: Christian Dior Lolita Booties (similar here) (and a better-for-winter bootie here)

Bag:Andrea Brueckner City Tierney Bag, NLA (similar at ASOS)

Blazer: J Crew Library Blazer (buy it here) (similar at Forever 21) (similar at Target)
Top: Ann Taylor Charming Long-sleeve Blouse in Black Cherry (buy it here) (similar here) (similar at nordstrom) (& at anthropologie)
Belt: Urban Outfitters (buy it here + take 10% off with code "TOPARTY")
Skirt: ASOS, NLA (similar at J Crew) (similar at ASOS) (similar at F21) (long version here)

Shoes: Alexander Wang Isabeli Mules, NLA (similar here) (more appropriate for winter here - love!)
Bag: Diane Von Furstenberg Harper Clutch (similar in ostrich here) (similar here)

#5

Hat: Eugenia Kim Max Fedora (similar here) (similar here)

Blazer: J Crew Library Blazer (buy it here) (similar at Forever 21) (similar at Target)
Top: Ann Taylor Charming Long-sleeve Blouse in Black Cherry (buy it here) (similar here) (similar at nordstrom) (& at anthropologie)
Belt: H&M (similar here, 40% off!)
Skirt: ASOS, NLA (similar at J Crew) (similar at ASOS) (similar at F21) (long version here)

Necklace: Topshop (similar here) (similar here, on sale)

Bracelet: t + j designs braided bracelet (similar here)

Shoes: J Crew Mona Pumps in Pale Peacock (buy them here) (similar-ish colored heels here, on sale)

Bag: Chloe Marcie Metallic in Gunmetal (similar here) (similar color combo here by Rebecca Minkoff) (similar here, on sale)

Outfits Of The Days (A Little Bit Old, A Little Bit New)

2011-11-15T13:12:00.149-07:00

Just a quick update for today! I am working on a longer post for either tomorrow or Thursday, so stay tuned...if you dare. ;) ❤

I am still playing catch-up from over the past few months, so here is an outfit I snapped back on a cloudy day in September before we moved all of our furniture back. This outfit was a bit of a change for me, as most of you will likely notice, in that I was dressed in black almost from head-to-toe.

It was a fun change! A monotone outfit doesn't need to be a boring outfit, and I found it a good challenge to mix patent + faux fur + cotton + taffeta with an assortment of gold drippings to add some interest:

Vest: Jennifer Lopez for Kohls (buy it here) (similar here for $42) (similar here at F21) (similar at UO + take 10% off with code "TOPARTY")

Top: Bailey 44 Faux-Shrug Top, NLA (similar here at Ann Taylor) (similar here at Anthropologie)

Skirt: J Crew Marvelle Mini Bell Skirt, NLA (similar here) (and here) (similar here at F21)

Shoes: Christian Louboutin Mater Claude (buy them here) (similar here for $49.95) (similar here at Target)

Tassel Necklace: Topshop, NLA (similar here)

Long Necklace: Ann Taylor, NLA (similar here) (similar here) (gorgeous option here) (a fun option for $15.99)

Five stone necklace: J Crew, NLA (similar here) (similar at ASOS for $25)

Bag: Chanel Crackled Patent Camel Classic Flap (similar here) (and here by DKNY) (and here for under $100)

And here we are, back to a little bit of Colorado-style. Choker necklaces are a new-ish trend that has been popping up everywhere recently, and while these sleek and elegant necklaces look great under things like simple silk blouses I really like layering them with longer necklaces, too.

In fact, a male friend remarked last week (upon seeing me) that I wear a lot of jewelry. I asked if it was too much and his only answer was, "It's a lot...but for you? Nah."

Oh GOOD. Whew! 'Cuz I would still wear all this jewelry (no matter how he answered) anyway, a haaaa:

Hat: GAP (buy it here) (similar here for $7.99)

Blouse: Banana Republic, NLA (similar here) (similar here)

Jeans: J Brand Kiki Flares in Lotus (buy them here, on sale) (similar here at Piperlime + take 20% off thru 11/16 with code "TREAT") (similar here, too!)

Fur Scarf: H&M (similar here) (similar here at ASOS)

Long Necklace: J Crew Pluma Necklace (buy a Factory version here)

Collar Necklace: Ann Taylor, NLA (similar by Dannijo) (under $30 at ASOS)

Watch: Michael Kors Rosegold Large Runway Watch (buy it here) (similar here for $135)

Jeweled Bracelet: J Crew, NLA (similar here at LOFT) (love this at Zappos, too)

Cuff Bracelet: GAP, NLA (similar here)

Shoes: Elizabeth and James Mae (buy them here + take 20% off thru 11/16 with code "TREAT") (similar here for $70)

Bag: Lanvin Happy Mini Pop in Metallic Python (buy it here) (similar here) (similar here for under $50)

Outfits Of The Days (Valentino Booties + A Short Showcase of Lace)

2011-11-12T13:30:00.006-07:00

Oh, how I love lace. It is just so pretty and, in my opinion, can be incredibly versatile if worn the right way. It can also be easy to cross the line from sweet to scandalous with this ultra-feminine fabric, though--so here are a few quick personal rules I have for wearing it:

1. I prefer lace tops and tanks with higher necklines--lace already evokes a sense of sultriness with its peek-a-boo, airy design so cleavage is definitely not needed.

2. Look for lace tops, dresses, and skirts in interesting patterns. Lace seems like it should be a pretty standard deal, but it isn't--it can come in stripes (like the ASOS Blouse with Lace Overlay), zig zags, a variety of floral prints, and lots more. By picking a lacy piece with a bit more interest to it, it can help make the item look a little bit more luxe (even if it really isn't!).

3. Still don't feel comfortable showcasing lace as a major component in your outfit? Try a lace necklace (like the Golden Lace Long Necklace with Chains at Ann Taylor), a handbag with a little bit of lace detail, or even a pair of lace pumps or booties. It will add a pinch of pretty without seeming too precious.

Here we go! A little bit casual....

Blazer: Nordstrom (similar here) (and here + take 10% off with code "TOPARTY") (and here for under $30)

Belt: J Crew (similar here) (similar here)

Pants: J Crew Minnie Bi-Stretch Wool Pants in Redwood (buy them here) (similar here, on sale) (and here + take 10% off with code "TOPARTY")

Ring: Yves Saint Laurent Arty in green (buy it here) (similar here) (and here for $14)

Shoes: Valentino Asymmetric Lace Booties (similar style here) (and here for $66) (and if booties aren't your thing - a beautiful pump by jimmy choo)

Bag: Lanvin Happy Mini Pop in Metallic Python (buy it here) (similar here) (similar here for under $50)
Nails: OPI for Sephora's I'm With Brad (here) with Butter London's Chancer (here)

And tickling my fancy with a little bit of taffeta & tigers eye, too:

Skirt: J Crew Marvelle Mini (similar here) (and here) (similar here at F21)

Shoes: Valentino Asymmetric Lace Booties (similar style here) (and here for $66)

Fur Stole: ASOS (buy it here) (similar here + take 40% off with code "FRIENDS") (similar here at Express)

Earrings: c/o Kendra Scott Darby Earrings in Tigers Eye (buy them here)

Ring: Banana Republic Tigers Eye Ring (buy it here)

(Currently listening...)
Bloodbuzz Ohio by The National on Grooveshark