What I Bought In February

While February wasn't jam packed with exciting purchases, I still wanted to share the past month's purchase history with you. Earlier in the month I blogged about what's in my Old Navy shopping bag and confessed my new found love for Old Navy. I didn't purchase everything that was in my shopping cart, but I did get a few great things that I've been wearing the entire month. So let's jump right in!

I picked up another pair of the Rockstar skinnies, this time the coated denim in navy. They are on the left side in the photo. These are very comfortable for being a coated pant; not too stiff and haven't stretched out. The only thing I bad I have to say is that they are a bit short. In my first pair of Rockstars I ordered a regular and they were fine, but these are a lot shorter and hit a couple inches above my ankle, which is fine but I wish they were a little longer. I am 5'8"just for reference, and will probably get longs next time.

Next are the Rockstar tuxedo skinnies. I LOVE the wash of these and the tuxedo stripe that dresses them up a little for work. These jeans will look amazing with pointed toe flats in the spring. Oh yeah, they are only $8!!! You read that right, people. Check them out!

When it comes to workout pants I am a Lulu girl. They fit nice and snug and don't move even when I bend down. Lululemon is known for their high prices and I wanted another pair of running capris so I figured I'd give Old Navy a shot. They are just as good! I have an Under Armor pair of capris and they are too stretchy and fall down, but the Old Navy capris fit great and definitely compares to Lululemon.

The white sweater is so pretty in person, but I ordered it on a whim because it actually is a couple sizes larger than I normally wear. I thought maybe it could work as a cute, slouchy sweater but the sleeves are too long and it just doesn't work. I'm crossing my fingers they have this in my size when I visit the store this weekend.

Do you have any fun weekend plans?

More Old Navy...

What I Wish I Bought in January

I cannot believe a whole month has already gone by in the new year! Usually I do a blog post haul sharing the items I purchased throughout the month, but I am kind of in no-spend mode so this month's haul only includes a set of midi rings. Not super exciting, but I love them.  I do however, have a few things on my wish list that I wish I bought in January.

Sally and Molly of A Piece of Toast had the best things to say about this Aveda Moisturizer and they have pretty great skin, so I am in dire need of trying it. One scroll on Pinterest and you probably saw these Sam Edelman sneakers at least once. Just like the rest of the world, I am completely obsessed with slip on sneakers. I love trying new makeup and this Ambient Lighting Powder claims to make your skin look flawless. So many great outfit possibilities with these Hunter Boots.  I need to buy less pink things for my apartment but this Pink Stool is so cute. I'm getting excited for spring fashion and these Stud Flats.

After a great chat about all things blogging, networking, etc. with Katelyn, I finally bought my ticket to Go Blog Social!! It's a blogging and social media conference in Kansas City on April 4th and 5th with  speakers coming from all across the US. I'm so excited to learn lots and meet bloggers -- let me know if you are going too! :)

Have a great weekend! Go Broncos!

What I Bought in November + A Big Announcement

December snuck up on me a little bit. I thought I had plenty of time to do my monthly What I Bought This Month post and next thing I knew it was already the second week of December! How are you guys? Ready for the holidays? I feel like I have so much left to do! As I mentioned before, the end of my school semester is nearing so I've been working hard to complete projects and study for finals. Next week is finals week. Eeeek! 

As if studying for finals isn't enough, I've also been working on an exciting project I can FINALLY share!!! My apartment is going to be featured on The Everygirl!! Words can't express how happy/excited/thrilled/nervous/honored I am to be featured in my absolute favorite online publication. The Everygirl is taking the Internet by storm and is such a wonderful source for young women. I completely admire everything they have done to help women like me succeed. If you follow me on Instagram you probably saw photo shoot sneak peeks last week. I promised you like six months ago a tour of my apartment once I finished decorating, so I hope this will do :) As soon as I know the exact date for my apartment feature I will let you know, but it will be sometime next year -- which is only a month away!

Back to what I bought in November.

This past month I found some great things I'm really excited to share with you all. If you're familiar with the Omaha area, they just opened up an outlet mall with tons of great stores. Usually I'm a little leery of outlet malls because the stuff isn't all that great and the prices aren't much cheaper. This outlet mall did not have a lot of amazing deals however (we went a few days before Black Friday), but the selection was pretty good and I was overall satisfied with the variety of stores.

Fossil Zylo Boots - Last season I was a tall boots girl and baffled at the thought of wearing ankle boots. Tall boots are so much more chic looking... Wrong. I still have me some tall boots, but once ankle boots hit the stores and Pinterest this season there was no turning back. These are so comfortable and I have worn these just about every day for the past month.

Patterned Chiffon Blouse from T.J. Maxx - I went into T.J. Maxx looking for an outfit to wear to an agency meeting because I knew I could find something trendy and affordable. This blouse was an instant favorite. I also bought some teal ankle length trousers which I ended up returning because they fit a bit off. I love the blouse except for the fact that the buttons ALWAYS come undone. So I will be stitching the button holes to make them tighter.   

Blue Plaid Skirt from Forever21 - I needed a couple outfits to wear for my photoshoot with The Everygirl so I went with this skirt.

Navy and Pink Sweater from J.Crew - An outlet find that I love. My boyfriend actually picked this one out :)

Necklace from Forever21 - I love jewelry from Forever21 because it's incredibly affordable and trendy, so I don't feel guilty if I don't wear it every single day.

Plaid Button Down from J.Crew - Another outlet find. Because every girl from Iowa needs a plaid shirt.

White Button Down from J.Crew - Because I didn't have a white button shirt. I know, I know, it's a wardrobe staple I've been missing for years.

Embellished Vest from Forever21 - To wear for my Everygirl shoot.

Red and Blue Sweater from Target - Loved the colors and print.

That's it! Did anyone snag any great Black Friday deals? This year I passed and was honestly a little disappointed with the lack of "deals".

Recreate a Vintage Living Room

The Inspiration \\ Emily Henderson

I hope you're staying warm on this chilly Iowa day! Today was actually the first day I broke out the winter coat this season. Sally informed us we have only 7 weeks left until Christmas. Isn't that insane?! As a kid that felt like an eternity but geez, that doesn't sound like very much time to do shopping.

As my design style has evolved and grown over the months, I find myself drawn to vintage decor with a past. Everything is unique and one of kind which makes it all the more exciting when you discover something really good. However, when you find an amazing piece, chances are you won't find another just like it.

Emily is known for trolling Craigslist and flea market finds. Somehow she manages to score some of the coolest stuff and use it in all of her clients' homes. Truthfully, I don't know how she doesn't keep it all for herself :) Emily then reveals a fantastic room she designed (like this) and goes through all the work telling us where she purchased each piece in every room. Unless it's vintage. Which, like I said earlier, is pretty dang often. No source. Womp womp.

So, just for the fun of it, I recreated one of Emily's rooms so you can get the look yourself.

Of course, accessories make a personalized room and should always be added. You should do your fair share of antiquing for pieces that speak to you for an equally quirky and layered room. That's the fun part with accessories. You can play with it and make the space your own. I mean, besides Emily, who wants a dalmatian in their living room?

Sofa // Rug // Side Table // Chair // Chest // Bear Print // Lamp // Leather Pouf // Pink Pillow // Bolster

What I Bought in July

July is always a fun month. Full of grilling, sunbathing, and hot weather. Oh, and awesome sales. With fall approaching, it's the perfect time to stock up on summer wear as stores make room for fall's new arrivals. I managed to scoop up some great deals that I already can't stop wearing. Every single item happened to be on major sale! Think half off and more. 

You probably saw me post these cow print shorts on Instagram. They are easily my most comfortable (and favorite) pair of shorts and have already seen many days of wear. So easy to throw on in the hot weather. Palm print has been all the rage this summer and I have to admit I am mildly obsessed. The instant I saw this blazer I had to get my hands on it. Only to find the $230 pirce tag...With a little determination and luck, I happened to come across it online while a major sale was going on and ended up paying $57! Boom. 

Have a great weekend friends! I'm spending mine on the lake and a rodeo tonight.

Ripped crops from Zara // Sandals from Target // Striped scarf from Zara // Cow print shorts from Zara // Gold spike bracelet from Target // Palm print blazer from Juicy Couture // White tee from Zara

Wednesday Wish List 7.5

Can you believe it's already the last day of July? Doesn't every summer seem to go even quicker than the year before? Though I'm sad to see summer soon come to an end, August is my birthday month so I still have a reason to celebrate! I will also be going on my first vacation in over a year so I am counting down the days. Much. Needed.

Kain Dress Dresses that are nice enough I can play up with pretty jewelry and heels or play down with sandals are winners in my book. The dark red color is just icing on the cake. // Pocket Tee Can never have enough tees. This one from Anthropologie is perfectly comfy and slouchy. Not to mention I have my birthday gift from Anthropologie of 15% of everything. Nothing like doing a little shopping for my birthday. // Love That Red lipstick by Revlon. Lately I've been playing around with bright lipsticks. Lipstick hasn't always been my thing but I'm having fun with reds and bright pinks. It really changes your entire look. Mary over at M.A.S. Fashion said this one by Revlon called "Love That Red" is her go-to. // White Skort Spotted all over the blogosphere, this skirt has definitely proved to be incredibly versatile. I've seen it worn with everything from a grey tee and statement necklace to a button up and heels. I like the more casual look and would wear it with a tee and my Converse. // Felicia Flat With fall approaching it's almost time to break out the flats and retire the sandals. I like these neutral cow print ones by Sam Edelman which I would wear with everything. Animal print might be my favorite neutral. 

Tomorrow I have an exciting series starting here on the blog so be sure to check back! It's been in the works for a month or so and I'm so pumped to finally share it with you guys! 

Wednesday Wish List 7.4

Summer is flying by and it's a little scary to think it's almost over. In almost a week it'll be my birthday and then before you know it school starts up again. Eek. I better cherish the few precious weeks left. With fall quickly approaching, stores are getting rid of their summer gear and breaking out the cozy, fall clothing. The last couple days I've been working on a fall fashion trend guide for a client and I must say there are some goodies for the upcoming season. Plaid print anyone? However, with the recent heat wave I'm still in summer mode. What's the fun in buying fall clothes if you can't wear them yet? 

Shirt Dress Shirt dresses are  flattering and comfortable. Plus the denim makes it super cool.  // Splatter Paint Pillow Cover Isn't this just the cutest? I'm thinking about getting these for my bed, but I wish they were the bigger Euro sham instead. // Tie It Up Top One of Kate Spade Saturday's newest prints and it might be my favorite yet. Many of the tops look a bit short, any general thoughts on how their tops fit? // Zig Zag Watch If you haven't noticed a trend yet, I am mildly obsessed with Kate Spade Saturday. Which explains why 3 items on this week's Wish List are from there. The entire collection is bright and playful and reasonably priced -- what's not to love? I have yet to actually purchase anything yet, so I think I might have to real soon. A sportier version to switch out with my Fossil watch for class. Plus, Molly at A Piece of Toast has a black watch which means I need one too. // Abstract Clutch I'm all about a fun clutch these days. The bright colors and fun print make me happy. 

That's all, folks!

Love or Hate: Crop Tops

This summer girls are flaunting their toned midsections in the popular trend crop tops (should we just call it the Miley?) They're cute and cool for summer, but you definitely wouldn't see me sporting one around. 

However, Devon Rachel covered it perfectly here making them much more wearable. The key to wearing a crop top is pairing it with a high waisted skirt or pants. The point for a crop top isn't to show your entire 6 pack (...or 2 pack), just a small portion. My favorite look is the matching skirt and top set. The tailored skirt and matching top keep the entire look put-togehter. 

This look for me is love, love, love. It's a fun outfit and keeping the skirt or pants hemline below the knee makes it look completely appropriate. Maybe, just maybe, I'd break out a crop top in the striped ensemble above. 

What do you think? Are you a devoted crop top fan? 

Copy Cat

How cute are they?!

Have you ever browsed a fashion blog and after looking at oodles of fabulous outfits, want to completely change your wardrobe? I do. All the time. I love fashion and putting together outfits myself, but every time I step out on the street or browse Pinterest, my outfits suddenly feel...obsolete. Like it's not as put-togehter, cute, or fashionable as the rest. 

Recently I have been stalking the stylish gals over at A Piece of Toast for outfit inspiration in hopes of ending my lackluster fashion once and for all. Sally and Molly's style can be described as classic, crisp, and effortless. Every outfit they post seems to just get better and better. Seriously, they could make a paper bag look good-- and their legs for miles helps too.

What I love most about these two is how true they are to their own style. Molly wears lots of white and blue. Sally likes to add a pop of color. Some call it boring wearing the same styles over and over...but if it isn't broken don't fix it, right? 

When I'm shopping I have a tendency to pick out pieces that don't necessarily go well with the rest of my closet, which makes pairing outfits difficult. My style can range from super girly to very edgy. Not that you shouldn't change up your style once in a while, I just would like to find a style that I'm happy with day in and day out. Looking at what other people are buying and wearing is a way for me to find particular styles I like and resemble them. That's what inspiration is all about!

After going through pages and pages of outfit inspiration, I've rounded up a few of my favorites. This is what I am striving for on a day to day basis. Now if I just copy the purchases, I'll be set!

*All images via A Piece of Toast 

Wednesday Wish List 7.2

What a week! I am moving into a new apartment next week (only to move again into my own apartment once school starts up in August. I wouldn't suggest moving twice in one month.) so this entire week has consisted of packing boxes and getting things organized...all while juggling group projects and finishing the last week of my classes while also starting my new internship. All very exciting things so I can't complain! 

If you haven't already visited Social Stylate and read my internship announcement be sure to check it out! 

Rag & Bone Mila Shorts Yes, those are mini motorcycles. Fun prints like this get me every time. // Acrylic Tape Dispenser Who says office accessories can't be chic? Just like a coffee table or shelf, your desk needs styling too. // Deborah Lippmann Nail Polish Her entire line of nail polish is full of pretty colors packed with glitter and sequins. // Denim Vest Recently I've been loving denim vests over dresses. It toughens up a super sweet dress and gives a laid-back vibe. // Porcelain Print Dress Blue isn't usually a color that sticks out to me but for some reason this dress really grabbed my attention. I need more pretty pieces that don't take lots of layers to look put together in my closet. 

Have a wonderful Wednesday!

Worth Stealing {Ladder Shelf}

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I hope you are all recovering from a fun holiday weekend! I enjoyed the sun a little too much and now I have a nice sunburn I'm doing my best to keep from peeling. Any tips?

Coming up with ideas to furnish a home takes lots of creativity and risk taking when decorating on a budget. A good, sturdy shelf usually costs hundreds of dollars and that's a bit over budget, especially when furnishing my college apartment. A week or so ago I was browsing Pinterest like usual looking for shelving ideas. I need something that is big enough to hold odds and ends and also sturdy enough to stand on its own without leaning against a wall, since I want to use it as a divider in my studio apartment. Most Ikea shelves need to be secured to a wall to prevent tipping.

To the individual that came up with the idea of using a ladder and wooden boards for a shelf I give you major kudos. In fact, I'm slightly mad I didn't come up with the idea myself...

I love the idea of using a ladder that my dad has stuck away in the shed and some boards from Lowe's to create a useful shelf. The overall look is industrial and cool, don't you think? You could even spray paint a metal ladder gold for a less rustic look. The possibilities are endless!

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Get to Know: Social Stylate and Ashley Brooke Designs

As a blogger, it's safe to say I spend the majority of my time on the Internet. Whether it's catching up on my daily reads (Which are constantly growing, I think I'm up to 50 blogs on Bloglovin.), searching for blog post content, or just browsing, I stumble across some pretty neat stuff. A week or so ago I fell into the rabbit hole of endless clicking (Does it happen to you?) and discovered Social Stylate, a creative marketing boutique. After browsing their client list and portfolio you'll quickly discover the dynamic duo behind it all are marketing geniuses. Discovering a pot of gold like Social Stylate gets my heart pumping and creative juices flowing. I love connecting with the people behind such creative businesses. They really know how to do it all: web design, social media, writing, branding...

Not only do the ladies at Social Stylate write for clients, but they write their own blog featuring a series called Boss Lady. They interviewed the founder of Lulu & Georgia, which I gushed about last week, and a slew of other talented successful businesswomen. 

After spending a good hour scanning the Social Stylate website and catching up on their Facebook feed, I came across Ashley Brooke Designs.

Ashley Brooke Designs illustrations are gorgeous and cheeky making all of us want our own personalized stationery. Receiving a card by Ashley Brooke is bound to brighten anyone's day. My own love for paper goods brings her sweet designs even closer to my heart. But Ashley doesn't stop at paper. Witty sayings adorn T-shirts and mugs. 

Ashley Brooke Designs customizes invitations and cards for birthday and bridal parties, wedding announcements, and more. What makes her designs so different is she captures your own personality by actually illustrating you, your significant other, and furry friend if you'd like on each card. Such a fresh and unique take on personalization. 

It seems as if Ashley Brooke Designs has mastered the art of paper and illustration. I can't wait to see what new things she will be drawing up next. Imagine personalized baby announcements and family holiday cards with the whole family!


*All images via Ashley Brooke Designs

Wednesday Wish List 7.1

Happy almost Fourth of July! Nothing like a relaxing summer day and an excuse to celebrate with good eats and drinks. I plan on sipping on some tasty drinks later tonight.  How do you plan to celebrate?

Suede Carry All Pouch I've been searching high and low for a leather clutch that doesn't cost a fortune. American Apparel has a huge selection with different sizes and tons of colors to choose from. // Gold Outlaw Bracelet Dainty gold jewelry is always wanted. You can never have too many bracelets to stack. // Print My apartment walls are bare white and since I'm not allowed to paint them, I will be adding bright colors with fun wall art. This print is one of my favorites I've seen yet! Aren't the colors just beautiful? I am trying my best to steer away from having so much pink in one room...as much as I'd like to go crazy and decorate using every shade of pink imaginable, I admit it can be a bit much. If I decide to purchase this print I am making a rule of no more pink allowed... // Collar Necklace I need more statement necklaces in my life. Seriously, they are incredibly versatile. My favorite is pairing them with a graphic tee and torn boyfriend jeans and calling it a day. // Pompom Basket Fun baskets like these are perfect for decorating shelves and hiding little trinkets.

Have a great 4th!

Wednesday's Wish List 6.4

You might have noticed the blog got a little facelift this morning and I am thrilled with the results! The layout and organization  was a bit of a mess before so I am happy to have things in good order thanks to Carrie Loves Design! She was great to work with and super speedy at implementing it! I placed my order last night and it was set to go this morning. What do you think? I'd love to hear your thoughts on the new blog design so leave your comments.

It's funny how your peers totally influence what you currently wear/want.  Have you noticed that? Now that I've been working at ULTA and chatting with the girls (and Bare Minerals boy) about products, I can't help but want to try all of their favorites myself. I have my own skincare and makeup routine but after talking about primers and foundations all day I get the urge to want to try new products, new brands. The Napoleon Auto Pilot Primer is one of them. Currently I'm not using a daily primer but after our conversation and learning the effects this one has on calming the skin and making your foundation stay wayyy longer, I think I might have to give it a shot, even if it means adding one more step.

Concealer can be tricky. Finding the perfect one that won't crease or look cakey is quite a fete. Just wait until you see the Fakeup Concealer by Benefit. The actual concealer part is surrounded by a moisturizer. I can't wait to give it a try!

This Hatteras Bracelet is handmade by the duo at Anna Croswell. Isn't that stone just gorgeous? 

A different take on the standard maxi skirt. Moon Rise Stripe Maxi Skirt

Can you believe I don't have a chambray shirt yet? Slightly embarrassing. For years I've been meaning to purchase one but I've found that the right shade of denim and soft feel is hard to come by. I like the small print on this one. Geo Chambray Shirt

Happy Wednesday, friends!

Beauty Scoop {Eyebrows}

In medium brown

Anytime I discover a new, good product, I can't wait to share it with you guys. After using the Tarte Amazonian Clay Brow Mousse once, it was no exception.

 First, I should inform you that I have very light brows. They are a blonde-ish color and hardly noticeable. I kind of just ignored them and figured they were supposed to be that light. If I was feeling spontaneous, I would fill them in a little with a pencil. My friend and fellow blogger, Carrie, has mastered the art of good brows and I always envied her perfectly shaped arches. With my light eyebrows I figured it just wasn't in the books for me. 

Last week I asked one of the girls at work what she used on her eyebrows and she said she swears by Tarte Amazonian Clay Brow Mousse. Since she is considered "the brow girl" at work, I trusted her decision and she went ahead and tested it out on me (because that's what we do at ULTA.) Magic happened. I had brows! You could actually see the shape of my eyebrows and the product still looked natural and not too thick. 

Naturally,  I bought the product that day. It even comes with it's own brush which is super convenient and easy to apply. Beware, a little goes a long way. I am loving the product and it's incredibly long wearing. You won't find any unpleasant smudging going on. 

Well groomed brows work wonders -- they frame your face and pull everything together for a sophisticated look. Often times they are left neglected, which is a big mistake! I am so happy I finally found a good product that works. 

What are  your favorite brow products? Do you have any eyebrow horror stories (shaved eyebrow, plucked too thin...?)

Make It {Safari Canisters}

Happy Friday! This past week I did an easy DIY project I had been wanting to do for a while. I really want to go all out on my new apartment and make it as cute and complete as possible. All while managing a low budget. So I have dreamed up a few projects (plus my couch makeover which I am still working on!) to help accessorize my place and make it feel like home.

Without further ado...

What you need:

• $5 - Canisters with lids   I got mine half off for a total of $5 for all three at Hobby Lobby.
• $6 - Animals  Make sure they fit the smallest lid size. I went with a safari theme, but you can do deer, moose, or whatever you like. I found mine at Hobby Lobby.
• $5 - Super glue
• $6 - Gold spray paint

______________________
Total Cost = $21

Plus the spray paint and glue have many more uses left!

Step 1:

Put a drop of glue on the bottom of each foot of the animals and place them on the lid. Make sure they are centered. Press and hold to make sure it's secure. I let mine dry for a full 24 hours before I spray painted.

Step 2:
Find a clear workspace (preferably outside) and lay down some newspaper or cardboard to protect the area. Spray paint your 3 animals. Make sure you coat the entire item from all angles. Wait about 5 minutes or until the paint is dry and spray it again. Once the paint is dry, flip over the animals and look at for any areas that might not be fully coated. Spray any areas that need it. Let dry.

Coat one

 That's it! The project is so simple and affordable and the overall look is fun and glam. It turns a boring canister into a fun new item for your vanity or shelf! Adds some character don't you think? Creating your own accessories for your home is often much cheaper than buying something similar and you can add your own touch! What DIY projects have you made for your home?

Wednesday's Wish List 6.3

If I had to choose one store that I had to shop at for the rest of my life it would definitely be Anthropologie. Their beautifully designed and always unique pieces give any wardrobe interest. I like to call them statement pieces. Full of bright colors and unique prints. Great items to build an entire outfit around that you can guarantee no one else will have when walking down the street. Their swimsuit collection alone is a stunner. As a kid I remember getting the catalogs and flipping through, pointing everything out I wanted. Little has changed.

This past weekend I went to Anthropologie and every time I"m like a kid in a candy shop. Even every inch of the store layout is perfectly decorated with window displays of wooden crates and flowers. Since the price point is a bit spendy, I usually head straight to the sale section. Which isn't all that bad because they have an awesome assortment. 

I gathered an armload of stuff and checked out the rest of the store. Seriously, have you taken a glimpse at their home decor? Pretty dishes, towels, bedding, oh my! I might as well deck out my entire house in Anthropologie. You can view the goods I got in my June recap blog post at the end of the month featuring my monthly buys :)

Today Anthropologie announced their big sale with up to 50% off items! The selection is bigger than ever --and a top I picked up last week is now on sale. Grrrr....

For this week's Wednesday's Wish List I decided to choose my favorites from the Anthropologie sale selection. I would easily wear just about everything in the entire store, but sine I can't feature the entire website, I chose my absolute favorites.

Want an easier way to know when your favorite brands go on sale? Hukkster is a convenient app that lets you add specific items to your list and once they go on sale you will be notified by e-mail! Perfect.

My picks from L to R:
Tonal Knit Blazer

Ginger Gold Blouse

Time Lapse Tee

Melati Romper

Oxford Peep Toe Wedges