Hello Fall

Happy Fall everyone! Now that fall is finally here (and I've started restocking my closet with some necessary basics), I am ready to shop, and get into all of the fun of my favorite season. Hell, I may even go to Starbucks and order myself a pumpkin spice latte! (JK, I don't consume pumpkin anything until at least the end of October...)

Impatient me has already taken a few items out of storage (like this blazer), and put a few things away (namely shorts and sandals), but I can't wait to make the "official" closet change over. Here are a few reasons why this my favorite season to shop/dress for:

1. It means being able to wear the staple piece in my uniform, blazers, (comfortably) again.

2. Leather and faux-fur.

3. Chunky sweaters and boots.

4. All black, all the time. 

5. My favorite dark, vampy polishes like Essie Wicked.

When it comes down to it, fall really is my comfort zone of dressing. Dark colors and clothing that resembles my favorite blankets? Yes, please. 

J.Crew Factory top | 3.1 Phillip Lim for Target skirt

wicked | stylenomics | after school boy blazer

Old Navy embellished sweatshirt | Ann Taylor equestrian ankle pants

*photo sources : 1/2/3/4/5/6

A Bit of Flare

The fit and flare shape is one I go back and forth on quite often. Sometimes I find the fit super flattering, yet other times I find myself dealing with an unintentional high-low hem where the skirt is too short in the back and long in the front thanks to my bum. Talk about disproportionate.

not disproportionate. the fabulous Sophia Loren. 

But I've finally figured out how to make the fit and flare style work for me: just the slightest hint of a flare, not an overly exaggerated one, makes for a very flattering silhouette. I am finding myself gravitating towards skirts and dresses more going into fall, and since I recently shrunk my jeans from regular to capri length, this little "discovery" couldn't come at a better time.

ONE: H&M dress, TWO: Hinge ponte flare skirt, THREE: Old Navy fit-and-flare ponte skirt, FOUR: Donna Morgan dress, FIVE: Banana Republic colorblock tank sweater dress, SIX: Banana Republic fit & flare skirt 

Back to Basics

I can be very lazy about shopping for some things (shoes not being one of them), but if there is one category of clothing that I just don't like shopping for, it's basics. They may be the simplest, most essential items of my wardrobe, carried by almost every department store, yet I absolutely dread shopping for them.

There are a number of reasons why I hate shopping for basics, the first being that since they are items that I wear often, finding the perfect fit is essential. This usually means trying on numerous garments, in numerous stores, for numerous hours. Then there is the fact that I can wear and love a particular item for a number of years, only to have to replace it and find out the cut has been ruined "improved," by the brand. The latter reason never fails me.

But there really is no getting around it. Too often when I'm getting dressed, I find myself reaching/wanting to wear that one item that I should have but don't. So before I even think about shopping for fall, I need to make a well edited list (check it twice, sorry, couldn't resist) and get to shopping for my essentials. Because whether it's a simple black dress to take me from day to night, or a casual chambray top for a day of fun, no matter what the season or the reason, they are the items that get me through it all. 

Old Navy knit tank dress, American Eagle denim jacket, J.Crew silk tank, H&M chiffon blouse, Mossimo ponte knit pants, J.Crew Factory cardigan, Old Navy chambray shirt

What are some items you consider your basics? Also, if anyone wants to do the buying/returning of these items for me, feel free. I kid, I kid. 

Bathing Suit Season | Suit Up!

Now that I'm off my soapbox, I'm sharing some of my favorite suits for the season. I think the greatest joy in swimsuit shopping (yes, there is joy in it) is knowing that trips to the beach, time by the pool, or vacation, is near. Plus, swimsuit shopping means shopping for fabulous accessories like sunglasses, hats, and my favorite, caftans. But more on those at another time.

Over the years, I have happily weened myself off of the typical (boring) black scoop neck one piece suit, opting instead for ones with a bit more flair and even color. I plan to explore that more this summer with some new suits, while still sticking to the tried and true. 

bikini

Panache (the best brand for all my D+ girls!), Michael Michael Kors, Freya (another great brand for D+)

Bikinis were no doubt revolutionary when they first arrived on the beach scene, and I love how the style has evolved over the years, making it easier for any body to rock the style. Since I've dared myself to wear one this year, and going back to my love of crop tops, my pick for the summer would have to be the high waisted style; just the right amount of sass and coverage for me.

tankini

Luxe by Lisa Vogel, Splendid, Norma Kamali

The tankini sure has come a long way from being boring, unflattering, and just terrible in general. I was pleasantly surprised by the selection available, from high to low of *gasp* flattering fits and colors. My personal pick would have to be the Norma Kamali suit: a pair of shades, and a headscarf (I'm thinking Pucci) and I am set for a day poolside. (sidebar: If you couldn't tell, I always go for a lewk with my swimwear.) 

one piece

Carmen Marc Valvo, Old Navy, Miraclesuit

A one piece bathing suit will always be an essential for me. Gone are my boring suits of yesteryear, with suits in fabulous cuts and colors taking their place. I'm still partial to a black one piece, but one with mesh and one-shoulder? Yes, please. 

Those are all of my picks, what are yours? What swimsuit style (or styles) do you gravitate towards? 

Flat Espadrilles

Along with sandals and flip flops, my favorite summer footwear would definitely have to include espadrilles. (I also just really love saying espadrilles.) Heeled and wedge versions have always been a staple, but in the last two years, I have really grown to love flat pairs as well. They instantly "summer-ize" a basic tank and shorts, and best of all, they are super comfortable, perfect for walking around. Given that my knee is in the process of healing, flip flops (and the lack of support) are currently a no-go, unless it's to the nail salon or the beach. Till then, flat espadrilles it is. Not that that's a problem or anything...

ASOS / Old Navy (more colors here) / American Eagle / Soludos

Dressing

Even though I have found and ordered multiple pairs my perfect jeans, what I am really excited to add to my wardrobe at the moment are dresses. It never fails that 70+ degree weather (like NYC has seen the last few days) happens overnight, (despite the fact that *shock* it happens every. single. year..) and I realize two things:

                           1. I am not prepared for warmer weather.
                           2. I absolutely hate wearing jeans when it's even the slightest bit hot out.

To solve this little "dilemma," I am getting my shop on now and stocking up for the season, starting with a few dresses. Besides being comfortable and easy, I love how dresses are just so perfect for when my brain is fried from the heat, and the only thing I can think of is how hot it is. Nothing like having the guesswork taken care of for you!

Old Navy maxi & tee dress

A black maxi and t-shirt dress are my two absolute musts. I know, this time of year isn't exactly the weather to be wearing black, but I can't help it! I love how easy they are to throw on and how they make the perfect blank canvas for a great accessory like a hat or necklace. Best of all, they are super versatile, and I especially love them for travel as they are comfortable, yet stylish. 

LOFT maxi

When I first saw this printed maxi dress on Jessica of Get Jessed Up, I knew I had to have it. The prints! The colors! I absolutely lived in this printed maxi last summer, as it saw me through BBQ's, casual dinners, and vacation. I plan to do the same with this dress. 

Banana Republic colorblock sheath dress & colorblock tank dress

Spontaneous plans seem to go hand in hand with the summer season, so being prepared for a more dressed up occasion is essential. Plus, I just really love these two dresses from Banana. #anyexcuse

Sanctuary lace dress

A lacy white dress is just one of those things that screams summer to me. While I find that most of them look like tablecloths, I love the texture and light feel of this dress from Macy's. Hopefully it doesn't disappoint! (Or I find one like it!)

What does your warm weather wardrobe look like? Do you also gravitate more towards dresses?

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? 

New Season,New Digs.

It's officially the first day of Spring and I couldn't be happier! While it may be some time before things warm up, the start of Spring means that warm weather is on it's way!

As I come out of hibernation/winter cabin fever, I can't help but be excited for all my favorite things about Spring: from leisurely strolls around the city, going to the farmers market, seeing the flowers in full bloom, waking up to the birds chirping (and the odd woodpecker that likes to get an early start some mornings...) I really could go on and on.

(The start of Spring also means Summer is that much closer, but, one season at a time!)

While I look forward to Spring activities a great deal, I also really look forward to shopping and dressing for the season as well. Away go the bulky winter coats and boots and out come lighter layers and colors. What's on my shopping list? Everything from the classics to pieces that will wear well now and into summer. 

crop top Mossimo | trench Merona | bag Dooney and Bourke | flats Zara | shorts Joe Fresh for JCP

What are you most excited to do and wear this Spring?

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! 

Looking to Spring: The Trench Coat

I just glanced at the weather for this week and definitely sort of frowned. A high of 33? Hello winter, you are truly in full force now. While it may be a ways away, I can't wait to start shopping for spring, and what says spring better than a fabulous trench? 

Workout Wear and January Playlist.

Before I even decide what I am wearing for the day, I decide what I am working out in. My workout style has definitely changed since this post and with good reason. For starters, the big tees got too big, and I found myself literally trapped in all the fabric. While function is always first and foremost in what I work out in, I found myself enjoying my workouts more when I was "dressed up," if you will. As they say, "when you look good you feel good," and that definitely holds true to active wear. 

Since I dedicate just as much time (and money) to my workout wardrobe as I do my regular wardrobe, here are some of my tried and true favorites, many on sale this week with the new year!

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

via

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!

Spring Renewal

With a week off to myself and the arrival of spring, I spent the better part of the week before last embracing the change in season (and weather) with a bit of much needed renewal. From cleaning out (read: emptying out) my closets and sprucing up my room to shopping, (lots of shopping), it was definitely the boost I needed to improve my energy and well-being. 

I attempted to hang up some of my pictures etc. that have been in a bag in my closet for the last idk 5 months or so? I got this far since I am indecisive on how to proceed with the rest of the frames... 

Inspiration struck during one of my weekly trips to Target: this towel ring makes my scarves SO much more accessible! 

I have been searching high and low for a silk dressing gown and finally found one at H&M for $10. It also makes for a nice decoration on its hook behind my door.

My new favorite beauty product: Smashbox's BB cream. I don't want to say too much on it since I just started using it, but I think I may love it...

I really did not think I would find myself rocking anything neon in my lifetime, but here we are with this top from Old Navy. It is a shocking pink and I absolutely love it. In addition, the fit and material is really nice and it can easily be worn dressed down or dressed up.  Can't wait to wear the life out of it. 

How have you been embracing the change of season? 

Spring Fever

SALLY HANSEN smooth and perfect nail polish in 'sea', AMERICAN EAGLE faded chambray shirt, OLD NAVY tote ,  GAP broken in straight khakis, DKNY rose gold watch 

In scrolling through my Facebook timeline today, my friends status couldn't describe the weather today any better: "Last day of January feels like the first day of spring." With this winter being exceptionally mild, with only ONE snow day, its hard for me to not be thinking ahead to spring and spring purchases. 

How is the weather where you are? Are you looking to spring and spring shopping just yet?

FACEBOOK :: TWITTER :: BLOGLOVIN' :: TUMBLR

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!

Missoni Madness

I still cannot believe the absolute INSANITY that ensued following the release of the Missoni for Target collection on Tuesday. Not even that it sold out, or crashed the website, but more the fact that people were camped out at Target from 5:30am, fighting with other shoppers, and ultimately, buying everything so they could go sell it on eBay.

My plan was to wake up Tuesday and go to Target, before catching the train to school. However, I was just so tired it became sleep>shopping. So I opted to sleep in, and instead check out the Target near my school before heading to class.

Well of course as the story would, and has been going by many, when I strolled into Target at 10:30am, I had missed the boat. All the employees I talked to said it "worse than Black Friday", with most items selling out in just FIFTEEN MINUTES!!! As excited as I was for the collection, I was happy I slept in instead, because I don't mess with that kind of crazy. Not one bit.

A manager informed me that there were very few items upstairs in housewares, so I ventured up to see just what was left.  It was a small display of bedding, with of course a crowd around it. I spotted a style I didn't see before, with a really nice print. Being in the middle of redecorating my room, I decided to get it since really, it is perfect! (The stares I got from people at my school as I lugged the set around were priceless.)

My biggest beef with how this all played out is how most of the collection ended up on eBay. 39,000+ approximately, going 3x, in some cases more than their original retail selling price. Do people not realize that even though it has the Missoni name and design, it is ultimately a TARGET product they are spending hundreds of dollars on? Even Margherita Missoni tweeted that people were being crazy!! 

There is no reason a $39.99 throw blanket should be going for $207.50. NONE.

Did you grab any Missoni for Target? How was shopping where you were? 

Overall, what do you think of it all? 

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