Coming Apart At the Seams…

You know what is just a knee slapping good time, wearing linen pants on the one day those meteorologist people were correct in predicting total downpours. Yup, day got off to a GREAT start.  Oh but it gets better.  Nothing says, “you are going to have a great day Alina,” like pulling off a pesky thread from said linen pants, to later find out it was the thread holding the seam on the perfectly pressed, light-colored trousers, together.  And THEN spending the majority of the day with your leg immobilized in hopes that the seam would not completely unravel in front of your corporate co-workers’ eyes.  One thing after the other had my patience and composure coming apart at the seams as well.  UGH, IS IT FRIDAY YET!?!!?!

 

 

Top, Pants, & Necklace: J.Crew; Shoes: Alloy

American Style….

I can’t think of a better way to celebrate America’s birthday than by highlighting one of the greatest American designers  – Mr. Michael Kors.  First man I uttered the words, “I love you” to…  The simple yet sophisticated styles that are put out collection after collection have me coming back for more every time.  I can never enter one of his stores without buying something.  Whether it be shoes, dresses, tops or accessories, Michael has a great way of embodying the true American casual style.  And it can be affordable!! Bought this patterned dress for only 40 bucks at a Marshalls! Can’t beat that!  So while you are all out enjoying those burgers and fireworks, I’ll be lounging trying to piece together the perfect all American outfit with my boy Michael.  HAPPY FOURTH OF JULY FELLOW FASHIONISTAS!! STAY SAFE AND STYLISH!

Gray Dress: Michael Kors (purchased in 2011); Shoes: Vince Camuto/ Patterned Dress: Michael Kors (purchased at Marshalls); Shoes: Forever21

 

Style Economics…

Ok so with another major American holiday just around the corner, and the retail summer season coming to an end (yes end, don’t be surprised to start seeing fall gear in stores soon) it’s a great time to go out and take advantage of some MAJOR sales.  Some of our favorite go to stores are marking things down to nearly zero and this is the time to open your wallets up juuuuust a little bit and help out the economy! I should talk I’m pretty sure I’m single-handedly narrowing the deficit, but that’s besides the point.

Here are a few of the sales I’ve already hit and will be hitting over the next few days to stock up and revamp my summer attire! Just look at the goodies I picked up at H&M and J.Crew for cheap!!!

Old Navy SUMMER SALE AND AN EXTRA 15% OFF WOMEN’S WITH CODE: ONSAVENOW

American Eagle 40% OFF SELECTED ITEMS

J.Crew EXTRA 30% OFF SALE ITEMS WITH CODE: SUMMER30

H&M I THINK THE WHOLE DARN STORE IS ON SALE

EXPRESS PRINTABLE COUPON ON SITE!!!

TOP: H&M; SKIRT & EARRINGS: J.Crew; SHOES: Forever21

Favorite Things…

Have you all missed my “Favorite Things” posts as much as I have?  Hopefully you have because I have another 5 items to share with you all and I’m sure there’s at least 1 item that will speak to you.  With a little bit of fashion, food and function on this week’s list, I don’t think you’ll be disappointed.

First up is something I’ve enjoyed for some time now, my journal…NO, not a diary, but a journal.  I keep it with me at all times, and whenever I have something I feel would either make a good post, or I think of something I need to do, I just simply write it down.  I go through one almost every 2 months, and I think it’s been rather helpful in organizing my thoughts and as of late my emotions.

Next batter up, something to tantalize those taste buds… For some reason warm weather makes me crave Mexican food and it’s been quite warm these past couple weeks, so I’ve been loading up on the yummy-goodness.  Throw in a cold Corona with a lime or a mojito and I’m a happy gal.  So obviously I’d share with you all my favorite salsa and guacamole!!! I think these bad boys speak for themselves…ENJOY!!!

So once your taco dinner is consumed and it’s time to hit the town, nothing compliments an outfit better than a great pair of earrings. And these bright-colored chandeliers from where else, J.Crew are perfect for day or night.  Put on with a simple white tank or tee and a pair of cut-offs for the perfect outfit to run errands or stroll around the mall.  And just the same with a silk ruffle top with skinny pants, and you are ready for date night.

And right before you put on that perfect date night outfit, put on the perfect summer face.  With humidity, insane heat and tans, no one wants to slap on a full face of makeup that will most likely melt off anyway, so the best all in one?  BB Cream!  I really like this one by Garnier as it’s light and can easily be blended into the skin for sheer yet really good coverage.  Ok I know what you must be thinking, BB cream!? SOOOO last year! I know most people have moved on to CC cream, but why mess with a good thing? It’s still working for me!

And finally, I’m going to share with you all my biggest shopping secret.  IT’s how I can afford to shop endlessly, well, how I can splurge a bit, endlessly.  EBATES….It’s an online site that when used, pays you back a certain percentage on your purchases! It really works, in the last 2 years that I’ve used it, I’ve gotten back over $2,000 dollars…I know I have a problem, but Ebates helps!!!! Anyone who loves to shop online as much as I do should give it a whirl, you’ll thank me once that first check comes in the mail!! HAPPY SHOPPING FOLKS!

 

 

 

 

Polka Party…

I can’t even begin to describe to you all the way I feel about 1. polka dots and 2. polka dancing.  That’s right, polka dancing…  Being Eastern European, it’s the second body movement one learns after walking.  This outfit I thought would be fitting for an evening out with my other Eastern European friends out for a night where the accordion was pumping…Literally, you have to pump that squeeze box for the good beats.  And what made the night even better was how much I loved this outfit. I don’t  necessarily try to make getting dressed an overly emotional process but when something  just works, it can be such a source of happiness.  I love that feeling –  even if it comes from what you put on in the morning. Have fun with  it!

Top: Loft; Pants: Forever 21; Shoes: Bamboo (bought on Poshmark App for $8 bucks!!!); Jewelry: NY&Co.

 

Realized Gains & Losses…

Working in finance, a good chunk of my time is spent figuring out gains and losses on investments and lately it seems as though I’ve had to do the same outside the office.  Like this top and skirt, clearly…GAIN…But there are other things that I’ve had to chalk up to being a loss…I won’t bore you with the details, but maybe it isn’t the worst idea to weigh the pros and cons of each “position” you hold in life, as each in an investment in your future.  Just because it doesn’t have any monetary impact doesn’t mean it won’t matter in the long run.

Top: American Eagle; Skirt: H&M; Necklace: Forever 21; Shoes: Alloy

Dizzy Designs…

Why is it that when one thing goes wrong, everything else seems to crumble right along with it?  Or when you are busy, you are SO busy you can’t seem to catch your breath?  I guess when it rains it pours, and oddly enough the weather recently has brought along enough rain to drown us all.  But to try to keep my mind off work, the crummy pressure systems and just overall emotional turmoil of last week, I’m keeping my outfits bright and summery.  Nothing like a vibrant paisley print to put you in a good mood, right? Hoping the bright colors and dizzying pattern will keep my concentration on the lighter happier things….

Top and Shoes: Forever 21; Skirt and Necklace: J.Crew

 

Missing In Action….

Ahhhh sorry folks, I know I’ve been a bad blogger lately.  Over a week since my last post, but before you get really upset at me, hear me out!.  I’ve been reaaaalllllyyyy busy.  It was the first week of the month, so you know what that means, the corporate world decides to cram 4 weeks into a few short days. And on top of that, I had my first ballroom showcase! Yes, basically an adult version of a recital, but still an accomplishment for me after only a few short months of taking those ballroom lessons.  Even though there were a few stumbles and missteps, it was a great night with a great group of people who have become dear to my heart.  Here are just a few highlights from the evening!

I just wanted to let you know that I was still here and will be back to my usual blogging self tomorrow!! Stay tuned folks!

My Dress: ASOS; Necklace: J.Crew; Heels: DSW

Going to the Chapel…

This weekend two of my friends from college took the plunge and got married.  I couldn’t think of two nicer people or two people more in awe of one another than Jim and Christine.  And the wedding did not disappoint.  Even in 90+ degree temperatures, the bride was glowing (and not from sweat) and the groom was as cool as a cucumber (even with no air conditioning in the church).  On the waterfront, with Manhattan in the distance, and even a FDNY water show, everything seemed to be perfectly planned and flowed effortlessly.  It’s events like these that make you really think about your own path in life and all the choices you’ve made to get to where you are today.  You begin to wonder if you’ll find that special someone and get to have your own fairytale wedding as these two lovebirds did just yesterday.  Even though that may be a sad thought for some, it gives a bit of hope and keeps that dream alive…With that said, here’s to Christine and Jim and their new life together! I wish you nothing but the best and all the happiness two people could ever have.  Cheers!

Church Dress & Necklace: J.Crew; Shoes: Michael Kors; Reception Dress: ASOS; Earrings: Forever21; Shoes: Mix No. 9-DSW

White Night Out…

With Memorial Day under our belts, our glittery, patent leather skinny belts of-course, we don’t have to second guess putting on our favorite whites. White is great for summer days to keep you cool and bright, but it is also a great option for those balmy nights. Go for the ultimate contrast of black and white or add a bright top and jewels to take this casual basic straight to dinner or the club. (Do people even club anymore?) since its still that time of tear where the days can be 90 and then drop to 50 in the evenings, adding a fun jacket like this Chanel-ish (big ish) inspired jacket from H&M is a great topper incase it gets a bit chilly and it becomes the only thing worthy of keeping you warm besides a bottle of tequila…And It is completely ok if you ditch the jacket for the tequila, I won’t judge, we’ve all been there. But you are in white so just don’t be doing any body shots on the bar, deal?!

 

Top: J.Crew; Jeans: Forever 21; Jacket: H&M; Shoes: Vince Camuto; Clutch: Marc Jacobs (cross-body without the strap!)