Rainy Day Shopping

Unless they interfere with plans, I love a rainy day on the weekend. It gives me the perfect opportunity to curl up in bed and catch up on some reading, watch some of my favorite movies, and just chill. It also gives me the opportunity to partake in my favorite every rainy day pastime: online shopping. A few things I have ready to checkout...

skirt | Mossimo 

The criss cross skirt from Mossimo reminds me of this Helmut Lang skirt, but in a longer length.  While I love the HL version, I am not sure that I love it enough to buy it. Maybe the Mossimo one can be a "tester."

sandals | Mossimo 
I bought these sandals in gold a few weeks ago, not even realizing that they also came in silver. It's okay to buy them both, right?

jeans | Old Navy 'Rockstars' 

It's truly a shame that I am just now trying The Rockstar jeans from Old Navy, considering they were released when I was working there. I have always had the hardest time finding jeans for my height, but after picking up these pants a few months ago and these jeans this past week, I think the Rockstars may be "the one." Plus, they are on sale this weekend for $19!

bag | Rebecca Minkoff 'Mini Quilted Affair' 

I have had my eye on this bag for quite awhile now, and the fact that I have a credit and a Nordstrom Note burning a hole in my pocket makes me want to get it now. The thing is, while I know I will get a ton of use out of the Minkoff bag, part of me thinks I should get the Dooney & Bourke bag that I posted about back in March first, as it is more of a "summer" bag.  Suggestions?


Happy Saturday! What are your plans for the day/weekend? 

Crossbody

While my makeup bag post may lead you to believe otherwise, I am actually not one to carry around my entire life in my handbag. For the most part anyway. But I like having the option to do so, hence why the majority of my bags are on the medium to large size. 

That said, lately I've been looking to downsize a bit. Whether I am running errands or around the city, I find myself on most days just wanting to carry the bare minimum/essentials and nothing more. I always thought crossbody bags were "too small" for me, but I have since changed my mind and think that they just may be the perfect option. With the variety of sizes (and colors!) available, I know the perfect one will keep my hands free and my load light, from the farmers market to the Garment District. 

1.Nicole by Nicole Miller 2.Michael Kors 3.Calvin Klein 4.Tory Burch 5.Merona

Do you have a favorite crossbody bag? I'd love to hear your suggestions!

A Spectacle.

The thought of "April showers bring May flowers," may add a new umbrella or pair of rain boots (or both) to the spring shopping list of many. Come to think of it, I do need a new umbrella, but instead, I am looking to pick up a new pair of eyeglasses. April showers may bring beautiful May flowers, but they also bring the worst time of year for many: allergy season. Itchy eyes + contacts = no bueno.

While I may be using the upcoming allergy season as an excuse, truthfully, I've been meaning to pick up a new pair of glasses for the longest time. It's been almost 3 years since I got my current frames and I have never liked them. I think they are nothing short of hideous and I won't even wear them out in public.* My search for nice, new specs has brought me to none other than Warby Parker. I have been following the brand for a while and absolutely love their fashionable, yet affordable eyewear, as well as their "buy a pair, give a pair" program. I can't wait to check out their showroom and pick out my new frames!  Now to narrow done my favorites list to a favorite...

*slight exaggeration. 

Sibley

Reece

Linwood

Wilkie

Nedwin

Are you a fan of Warby Parker? Which ones are your favorite? 

Spotty

Since I'm on a bit of a coat kick right now and I love leopard, naturally I am drawn to a leopard coat. I was so excited to try this one on from H&M, but truly wasn't feeling it. I am not ruling out the leopard look just yet, but will probably try on a different one. I love the look so much! 

Summer Shopping List

Summer is right around the corner and like every season, there are a few items I just can't wait to add to my wardrobe. Besides denim shorts, tees, and maxi's, these are the five items I will be picking up for the warmer months:

[Featured]: TUNIC: The Webster at Target $29.99, ESPADRILLES: ASOS $13.92, DRESS: American Eagle $49.99 BLAZER: Ralph Lauren, NAIL POLISH: Essie $8

1. Tunics: When I shop or browse online, I noticed I  have been gravitating to tunics in bold, fun prints. I imagine them simply with a pair of shorts and a flat sandal for a casual day out. 
2. Flat espadrilles: Espadrilles are the footwear of summer. Lots of walking make a flat pair an essential for my summer wardrobe.
3. Lace/crochet tank dress: I love the LWD (little white dress) for summer. I like the idea of one that is crochet or lace (that's not too heavy) for a simple summer look. My favorites are this lace dress and this crochet dress from American Eagle and this crochet LC Lauren Conrad dress from Kohl's.
4. Navy blazer: I love the nautical look and have always wanted a navy blazer with gold hardware. I think I will pick up this one from The Webster at Target.
5. Essie nail polish: Hello. My name is Alyssa and I am (severely) addicted to Essie nail polishes. It seems that every time I go to to Target, I can't help but browse (and often buy) a new polish. To make matters worse, I just found out that Macy's is now carrying Essie as well. I am owning it and adding these two new colors (Going Overboard and Cute as a Button) for a fun pop of summer color.

What are you looking forward to purchasing this season?

Adventures in Bra Fitting

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Back in March when I had spring break, there were two things that were absolutely imperative that I had to do: sleep and get fitted for a bra. I have known for some time (read since last September, at least) that I was in desperate need of new bras, yet what put me off from the process was because it is just that, a process. But since spillage is annoying and not cute, I mentally prepared and set out on my adventure. 

And so it begins.

My plan was to go the department store I have been going to get fitted and buy bras from for years.  However, before I got there, I got the feeling that it just wasn't going to be a good experience. After finding the less-than-enthusiastic-about-anything sales associate, my doubts were confirmed when she measured me and told me my new bra size...the same ill-fitting size I was wearing. I thanked her for her time and waked away baffled. Not that she got the same bra size but at the way she measured me. I am no rocket science but measuring the bra cup? That doesn't make any sense. Determined to complete the task at hand, I came up with a plan b: Nordstrom.

As I made my way to the lingerie department, I was hesitant, yet optimistic. The bra fit specialist (BFS) greeted me warmly and after I told her what I was there for, she gave me a quick rundown of the process and then took me into a fitting room. To measure me, she had me remove my shirt, and measured me in just my bra, much more practical than the other "fitter." Next, to ensure I got the best fit, she brought in two bras of two different sizes for me to try. After trying them both on, she determined my correct size. To be honest, I was shocked when she told me the size, but looking in the mirror in the test bra, I knew it was "the one."

Once my size was determined, it was time for the fun: finding fabulous new bras! The BFS was fantastic because she picked up on my style right away and brought me a bunch of bras in different styles and colors, all while explaining how to properly care for them etc. The other thing I really loved was about halfway through the process, the BFS brought in a fitted tank top for me to try on with the bras to see the difference. It was like night and day. I looked taller and leaner. And they were so comfortable! Dispelled was the myth (in my head anyway) that a proper fitting bra would be uncomfortable. 

After all the bras were tried on, the BFS left me alone (no pressure, thank God!) to pick out my favorites. The ones that I tried on and loved/bought were the plunge underwire by Freya, this sassy balconette by Panache, and this convertible t-shirt bra by Chantelle. I couldn't be happier with my picks and how the entire process went. I highly recommend going to Nordstrom to get fitted and for fabulous new bras. You will not be disappointed.

*all views expressed in the post are solely my own and based on my own experience. I had to share because it was just so amazing!

Getting into the holiday swing of things...

The tree at Rockefeller Center is lit, and it is December 1st! I am officially allowing myself to get into the holiday spirit and fully embracing holiday decorations, movies, red cups, and music. What I will never embrace is this song. God help me and you if I have to hear that song.

Anyway.

I bought this sweater back in September awhile ago when the Gap was having a 40% off sale. I had fallen in love with a similar one in July from H&M (right before vacation), but I couldn't justify buying a sweater in the summer. Plus, the Gap one is MUCH nicer. 

I was obviously attracted to the sparkle, but in the back of my mind, I just knew it would be perfect for the holidays. I felt crazy buying such an item so early, but since it was on sale, and depleting in stock quickly, I bought it and kept it hidden until now. 

Even Ke$ha's jeal

I really can't wait for Christmas. For starters, other than Fleet Week and Fashion Week, Christmastime is one of the few times NYC is bearable for me, and that I actually enjoy being here. Add in time with family and friends, and loads of merriment, and you have my absolute favorite holiday.

So here's to enjoying all the most wonderful time of the year has to offer! 

Old Navy Favorites

Old Navy has always been my go to place for basics, but never much else. Even when I worked there, I never shopped there much (shocking, I know). Sure, every now and then I'd find something spectacular that I just had to have, but those occasions were far and few between.

However, this season Old Navy has really stepped their game up! I find myself browsing online quite often and loving a lot of what I see! With  Friends and Family this weekend, I figured what better time to get my hands on some of those items that have been sitting in my shopping bag, at a great price?!

Here are my absolute favorites:

1. Sequined Chiffon Tank

2. Charmeuse Side-Slit Skirt

3. Asymmetrical-Hem Charmeuse Dress
(the asymmetrical hem and the color are giving me a total Devil Wears Prada moment)

4. Chiffon Dolman-Sleeve Shirt

5. NFL® Team Graphic Tee

Friends and Family ends November 8th! Happy Shopping!

Shopping in St.Thomas

Since we were busy in the other islands with tours and excursions, St. Thomas was our only real chance to get any shopping done. I failed to research the island before hand, but of course the port shopping guide on board was a great help. (Cruisers, make sure you check in with your port shopping guide. You do save money and get GREAT recommendations).

What I Gather 

• Granted you know what things cost beforehand, you can save quite a bit. 
• Perfume is a bargain! Most were about $6-10 cheaper than US prices, in addition to being tax free. For example my all time favorite Viktor and Rolf Flowerbomb was $91 for a 1.7oz bottle as opposed to $100, and a 1.7oz bottle of Chanel Coco Mademoiselle was $62 in St.Thomas as opposed to $68 in the US. 
• I can only speak for the MAC counter, but makeup prices are the same as back home. Just tax free.
• Alcohol is definitely a bargain. Many 2-for deals. And your allowed to buy more than in any other island (since it is a US Virgin Island).
• Jewelery and watches can also be a bargain. For example, our port shopping guide Shanee, had these amazing two-in-one diamond earrings. Had I bought them in St. Thomas they would have been $695 (if I remember correctly). Purchasing them now back home? $1295 + tax. 
• There's a ton of unique find to be found from table clothes, bamboo sheets from Cariloha, and apparel and accesories that change color in the sun from Del Sol. 

My buys: Michael Kors Watch, MAC blot powder and pencil, Gucci Rush perfume, Del Sol nailpolish

Banana Republic Mad Men collection.

It's no secret that Mad Men is one of my absolute favorite shows on TV. From the oh so sexy Jon Hamm as Don Draper, the drama at the ad agency, little Sally Drapers antics, as well as Joan and Betty Draper's fabulous wardrobe, the show has everything I could possibly want, to keep me entertained. 

Come August, Banana Republic will be launching a Mad Men capsule collection for women and men! Yes you and the man in your life can look and feel like Betty and Don (minus the whole Don's a man slut thing). 

Mad Men's designer Janie Bryant worked with Simon Kneen in creating the collection, based off of actual pieces seen on the show. While some may think wearing the pieces seen on Mad Men would  look dated or even costume-y, the Banana Republic collection really took the approach of giving a slightly modern update on essentially the classics of any woman's wardrobe. 

The only thing that has me confused on this collection is the pricing. The Cut states that it will be comparable to Banana Republic's pricing. However, BR has their main line, as well as Heritage and Monogram, which are much pricier.  Fingers crossed they mean the main line, as the pieces are sure to be timeless pieces for every closet. 

Some of my favorites:

(via)

leopard print. sold.

This should hold me over until season five's premiere. I hope.

Looking to Spring: Wide leg pants

DSquared2

Since Phil and Chuck saw their shadows today, Groundhogs Day, (or "the hump day of winter" as the meteorologist on the local newscast called it), this means we are that much closer to spring! Even as storm system number eight reeks its havoc, and this whole groundhog prediction business has 39% accuracy, I can't help but be slightly optimistic for an early spring.

As I start looking ahead to my spring wardrobe, the number one item on my wishlist is a pair of wide leg  pants. Wide leg pants took the runways by storm during Spring 2011 Fashion Week and while I love my skinny pants and jeans, I absolutely LOVE the look of wide leg pants, especially in denim. I have a pair of chambray ones from Old Navy that I have worn religiously every summer for the past 3 years, and I am glad to see them make a comeback in a variety of fabrics and styles (mostly because the aforementioned pair need replacing).

My favorite thing about the wide leg pant is that they are so easy to wear, and are very versatile as they can work for every and any occasion. Whether casual or dressy, day or night, wide leg pants do it all, and stylishly. And fear not! No matter what your size or shape, retailers from Forever 21 to Nordstrom to my favorite ASOS are carrying the style for every body. Here is one way I would wear the look in my day to day life:

Wide leg jeans by alyana 
Have you thought about your spring wardrobe yet? Or am I just crazy? Let me know your must haves for the upcoming season.

L.L. Bean Wellies

Cyber Monday gave me a reason and an excuse to just shop till I dropped (or till I ran out of money).

I figured while I was on my shopping binge, I might as well start stocking up for winter. Last year it snowed quite a bit, and as much as I love them, in slippery, slushy conditions Ugg's just don't cut it due to the lack of tread. I remember walking from school to Starbucks one day, and slipping on slush off the sidewalk and into a puddle! (Not fun, but I think I did so with grace). I figured rain boots would be a great, practical choice for the snow, since there would be no fear of water damage, or slipping and sliding in slush, and of course the rain. 

I was super impressed that I made placed my order on Monday, and my boots arrived in the middle of the monsoon that took place in NYC on Wednesday! But the best part was:

Woohoo!! Me love a great deal

Europe Buys

I must fore-warn you all, I'm not sure if its still jet lag, or me still adjusting to the time difference, but I am completely off. I sleep at the most random times and then I'm awake at even more random times. So if this post seems a little jumbled, I apologize:)

The trip was everything I could have dreamed for and more. It was a 10 day trip with my school for a course in Foreign Buying with the Retail department of my school. The trip started out with our stay in Lake Como, then over to France for a few days with a stay in Nice, then back to Italy, to stay in Rapallo. It was 10 days filled with lectures, travel, scenic sights and crazy mayhem. 

Our first stop (fresh and smelly of the airplane), was to Mii Santero, one of the most famous Silk producers in the world. How famous? They make the silk goods of Louis Vuitton, Givenchy, Pucci, Karl Lagerfeld, Chanel, Cartier, the list goes on and on. We took a tour of the factory, saw the production process, and learned about distribution. I couldn't ask for a better first lecture. After the lecture, we proceeded to Il Tesstura, which is basically like an outlet store for the factory. They sell past season goods, but also "damaged" goods. I say "damaged" because some of the defects were so minuscule, that to the untrained eye, they looked perfect. Being the scarf freak that I am, I picked up this DVF scarf for 25€.

 

On our last day in Milan, we went to I Santi, a family owned leather maker since 1947. We took a tour of the museum and got to see how handbags have taken shape and changed over time. After, we took a visit to their showroom, and of course shopping ensued in their Warehouse sale. In all honesty, while looking around, everyone had nabbed the cute evening bags before me. The bag I did fall in love with was 300 Euros, and I was not having that, esp since it was supposed to be a sale. I was determined to find something, only to spot this little beauty sitting on the counter near the back. I'm a sucker for doctor style bags (hello LV Speedy and Gucci Boston). And at 90€ I couldn't pass it up.

There was lots of great shopping around the hotel in Nice. I picked up this tunic for 10€ from a little outdoor shop (my favorite). Its extremely sheer, but nothing a cami can't help. 

I think the visit to Mii Santero might have sightly brainwashed me. I took a little trip into LV in Nice. Sweetest staff ever! I absolutely LOVE my new Olivia scarf. I also picked up a Monogram key/change holder. I almost bought a Neverfull, but that's a bag I still need to think about (the lack of a zipper could be a problem).

Rapallo and Portofino were great for shopping and like Milan and Nice, a great mix of high and low. Both places were great for getting things that weren't super touristy (shot glasses, mugs, magnets, etc.). In Portofino, I picked up cute handmade goods such as a baby bib and kitchen goods, and in Rapallo, lots of food goods such as, biscotti, cookies, chocolate, pasta, and sauces. While doing some last minute shopping in Rapallo, I picked up this gem in a bookstore, Il Mondo Della Moda/The Fashion Book (though it translates to The World of Fashion). Its 100% in Italian, and I cannot wait to start reading it. Hundreds and hundreds of pages of designers, photographers, artists, musicians, actors etc. who have influenced the fashion world as we know it.

I also bought a Longchamp weekender bag because I needed an extra piece of luggage (tsk tsk) in Rapallo. It turned out to be a great deal, because after doing the conversion, it ends up being $40 cheaper in Italy, then in the US. 

Well I'm off to take one of my 5 daily naps that "help me adjust back to the time difference/get over jet lag." Ciao!

Alexander McQueen for Target pop-up shop in NYC

The pop-up was amazing!! I have never waited outside, on a line, or in the cold for ANYTHING in my life, but this was definitely worth it. 

The event was a combination of three of my favorite things; art, music and most importantly, fashion. Upon entering the warehouse space, I just felt that amazing shopping high, that thrill you get when you know your in for something good. The space was huge and neatly organized and decorated in true McQueen fashion with the clothing set up in little fence shops, and fun graffiti and artsy pieces all around. 

I have to say, McQ has to be the best Target collaboration to date. The design, cut and quality of the items are exceptional. The blazer I bought was $49.99 but in my honest opinion, worth way more. First of the fit is amazing, and the quality, I can't rave about it enough.

The event had a really high end feel to it. All the purchases were wrapped up nicely in special McQueen tissue paper, and special black McQ for Target shopping bags. While I was on the checkout line, the line manager mentioned that there would be a performance by The Duke Spirit, a DJ, as well as a cash bar later on in the evening. Even if you didn't buy anything, it was just nice to be there to take it all in.

I couldn't wait to get home and play dress up, and even more excited to see a little special something in my shopping bag. I didn't even notice when they put the CD from The Duke Spirit (who by the way was the inspiration for McQ), in the shopping bag! It was a nice surprise when I got home. I LOVE FREEBIES and good ones at that. All in all, it was a great day!

ITS FASHION WEEK!!!

Happy first day of Fashion Week!!! 

I'm SO excited. I'm off next week from school, (Thank God! I mean, it hasn't even been a full month of classes yet, and I'm already in need of a vacation! anyhow...) which means a full week of checking Style.com and The Cut all day, getting all the Fashion Week 411. I may or may not be volunteering next Thursday...its still up in the air but I really hope it works out. Even if it doesn't, I'm still going to make the best of it and take it all in and hang around the tents and people watch aka stalk Rachel Zoe and her camp and V Becks. JK =]

Tomorrow I'm going to the preview/ pop-up shop for the Alexander McQueen Target line. I haven't been super exited for a Target line in awhile, but I'm really excited to see everything. And I'm in desperate need of some retail therapy, so it should be fun.

TTFN!!