Find It For Less

As you may have already gleaned from previous posts, I’m a big fan of designer duds. I love the quality with which they’re made and I love the little details that usually make them slightly superior (in my mind at least) to the offerings of retail stores. However, I buy such pieces sparingly because no amount of love (or lust) for them can justify spending $300 every time I need/want a new dress. Thus, I’m always on the look out for designer “look-a-like” pieces offered at less than designer prices.

In one of my earliest posts, I professed my deep and unconditional love for the Cynthia Vincent Luella wedge.  To be honest, my love doesn’t end with the Luella wedge – I love all Cynthia Vincent wedges. Her designs are always a cross between the feminine and the more rugged (think – big buckles, exposed zippers and heavy metal detailing) which I absolutely adore.  Every season, a new pair of wedges is introduced which I feel like I must own.  This season, it was the Daryl wedge.  However, at about $300, I wasn’t about to push “purchase.” But leave it to Steve Madden to make an almost picture perfect replica with a much skimpier price tag.

Cynthia Vincent Daryl Wedge (currently on sale $199.99-$239.99)

Steve Madden Trackks ($89.95)

Which one do you like best? To be honest, I really love the Steve Madden!

Day One DOWN

Hello readers! Day one of the Bar exam has come to an end (just two left to go) and I’m back safe and sound in my hotel room eating a turkey burger (with fries, obvi) and watching Teen Mom – great way to wind down after a hectic day! Thank you all so much for your support this week. Blogging will be pretty sparse/non-existent until Friday but I promise to get right back into it once the Bar exam beast is behind me. Until then, I’ll be here:

I hope you’re somewhere more fun doing something far less stressful.

Bar Exam Essentials

The exam is on Tuesday and until then I know I’ll be a ball of nerves. Because my nervous stomach is making it impossible for me to really sit still, this post is going to be short, sweet, and full of pictures. Here are a few of my Bar exam essentials:

Jersey Dress. Comfort is key.

Leggings/Jeggings. Again, comfort is key.

Layers. It’s the dead of summer so it’s safe to assume the hotel hosting the Bar exam will have it’s air conditioning turned on. Thus, it’s also safe to assume the temperature in the exam room will be completely wackado making layers essential.

Five Hour Energy. I’m a caffeine junky and this stuff is amazing – serious miracle worker. In law school I would drink it before every final and I’m convinced it helped me spot issues and recall rules of law – let’s hope it does this on the Bar as well!

Granola Bars. When I’m anxious/nervous I really have a hard time eating and granola bars are about the only food I can choke down.

What essential items do you need with you before/during a big test?

Designer Spotlight: Kendra Scott

I’ve never been a big “jewelry person.” In fact, I’m usually a minimalist when it comes to donning accessories. However, when Pretty in Pink Megan posted about Kendra Scott, I became intrigued. After visiting her site and wearing her pieces I have to say, I’m in love. Her elegant designs, bright, bold colors, and multitude of styles have turned me into a jewelry enthusiast. While I love her bracelets, necklaces, and rings, her earrings are my absolute favorite. From the ever popular and publicized Danielle earring to the more understated Linden, she has a earring style to fit every personality, mood, and outfit. Check out her website, I guarantee you won’t be disappointed. Here are a few items on my wish list:

 Danielle Earring in Yellow $60

Maggie Filigree Hoop Earrings in Gold $65

  Linden Earring in Black $60

Madina Filigree Medallion Earrings in Gold $50

I mentioned a few posts back that I was on the hunt for a few good outfits to wear while sitting for the Bar exam. To many, this might seem ridiculous (and to those of you in this camp you’re probably thinking, dumb girl – go study more and stop worrying about your dang clothes). However, I’ve always performed better on tests, papers, work projects, etc. when I feel confident, which comes in large part for me when I feel good about the way I look. Look good and you’ll feel good, right? On that note, I have to say that while I might not have my exact outfits picked out, I  do know exactly what jewelry I’ll be wearing – Kendra Scott (this earring specifically). I’m certain that wearing her big, bold earrings will help me to feel fabulous.

Flat Fever

1. Vera Wang Lavender Label “Lisa” Jeweled Ballet Flat $295.

2. Sam Edelman “Calypso” Quilted Ballet Flats $99.

3. Burberry Check Ballet Flats $250.

4. Vera Wang Lavender Label “Lillian” Patent Ballet Flat $195.

5. Tory Burch “Reva” $195

To say that I love flats is an understatement and come fall, I guarantee I’ll be wearing them with almost every ensemble. Not only are they arguably the world’s most comfortable shoe, but because of their simplistic design, they can be worn with a multitude of different outfits. Skinny jeans, dresses, tights, leggings – flats compliment them all. The five pairs pictured above are a few of my recent favorites (you might remember seeing the Tory Burch Revas previously in this post). From jeweled toes to animal prints to metallic gold, each pair exudes a very distinct personal style. However, each and every one would make a welcome addition to my closet and fall wardrobe (with the Revas definitely being the front runner – a classic gold flat is a must).

Do you wear ballet flats? Which brands are your favorite?

Thrifty Thursday: Nordstrom Anniversary Sale

I’ve always loved the Nordstrom Anniversary Sale. It’s a great opportunity to buy designer/pricier pieces at a great bargain and stock up on necessary fall basics. While I wasn’t online for the immediate start of the sale (I’m not that much of a shopaholic), I did log on pretty much right after I woke up. I’ll admit – my initial perusal of the much anticipated Anniversary sale resulted in disappointment. There were a few pieces I was in love with, however, they were sold out of my size. Well dear readers, on Tuesday night Nordstrom much have sensed my disappointment and heard my pleas because they restocked a lot of items. I was able to snag a Vince cardigan (which is again already sold out of all sizes except for large) that I had my eye on from the sale’s start, the pair of Sanctuary cargos pictured below, as well as a very budget friendly pair of leggings. Here are a few fabulous finds (not all under $50 like usual but they are all under $100 and are great bargains) that tempted me:

I ended up purchasing these Sanctuary Skinny Leg Cargos ($78.90). They’re almost identical to the J Brand Houlihan Cargos but over half the price.

Every closet needs to be home to a good trench coat. While I would really love to own this one by Burberry, my bank account won’t allow it. Happily, this one by DKNY is absolutely adorable and affordable (on sale for only$98.90).

I love oversized sweaters. My favorite fall outfit consists of skinny jeans (or my new skinny cargo pants), a light t-shirt, and a chunky oversized cardigan. This cardigan by Hinge ($65.90) would look adorable with just about any fall ensemble.

I’m usually not one to add a lot of sparkle to my outfits. I prefer bright colors and fun patterns to bold metallics and sequins. However, when I spotted this jacket by Flounce ($89.90) I was immediately drawn to it. How perfect would this be for the 2010 holiday season?

Did any of you buy anything at the Nordstrom Anniversary Sale?

Confessions of Late Night Addictions

For the last few weeks I have had an impossible time falling asleep. I’ll lay in bed with the lights out fully prepped for a good nights rest but my mind won’t stop whirling. My sleeplessness is usually triggered by thoughts of the Bar exam – What are excuses for nonperformance of a contract? How is an Easement created? Which hearsay exceptions require the declarant to be unavailable? Once I start rehashing my outlines in my head, it’s impossible for me to fall asleep for at least the next two hours. Well dear readers, I’m happy to report that a few nights ago I found a solution to my sleepless night dilemma. What is it, you ask? HSN and QVC. I spend at least 30 minutes before turning the lights out every night watching the Home Shopping Network or QVC. I’ve always been a “stress shopper” – when I’m stressed and overwhelmed, rather than turning to food or alcohol, I turn to shopping. What better way to get my shopping fix than watching the two best at-home shopping channels, right? And surprisingly, there have been a few items offered that I really like:

How cute is this bracelet watch by Rachel Zoe? I love that it’s functional (as a watch) but also so stylish and such a bold statement.

I adore this sweater vest (also Rachel Zoe) for layering in the fall.  Sadly, it’s sold out in my size.

These earrings by Tori Spelling are so chic and would look fabulous with a colorful fall ensemble.

What do you think of the above pieces? Have you bought anything from QVC or HSN?

Push Present

When a woman gives birth she often receives what is known as a “push present” from the new baby’s father. According to Wikipedia, this present is given as a thank you to the woman for bearing the burden of carrying a child for nine months followed by hours of grueling labor. Let me preface what I’m about to say next with this – I’m not comparing the Bar exam to giving birth (there’s no comparison, obvi). That said, shouldn’t Bar examinees get a “push present” of sorts for bearing the burden of Law School for three years followed by three months of intensive bar prep and another three miserably long days of test taking? I think so. The beautiful Elizabeth and James Charm Sandal pictured above (and purchased on Hautelook for $192 less than retail price – click the link in the right sidebar for a Hautelook invitation) is my push present to myself – I hope they fit!

Furniture Frenzy

My boyfriend and I recently purchased this adorable sectional (on super sale) from Macy’s -

It was delivered earlier this morning and from the moment the delivery men left I haven’t been able to take my mind off home decor. We moved into our apartment in May and since then we’ve slowly been picking out new pieces to really make it feel like home. Here are a few items I have my eye on to purchase next:

I love this bedding from Crate & Barrel. It may seem boring to some but I love its classic simplicity (which can easily be spiced up with a couple of punchy pillows, a colorful throw, and a bright ceramic-base lamp).

 This lamp from Target would look amazing on a bedside table.

While shopping in Pasadena a few months back, my boyfriend and I spotted this adorable coffee table at Crate & Barrel and have since been on the lookout for its more affordable twin.

I love the idea of doing a turquoise, cream, gray, brown/tan color scheme with pops of orange so if any of you spot anything fitting the bill please let me know!

Surviving Summer

I’ve never been a fan of the Summer season. I much prefer Fall and Winter with their warm drinks, cool temperatures, abundance of sweaters and boots, and (of course) fabulous holidays. My boyfriend, on the other hand, is a Summer aficionado. Because of his love for these three sweltering hot months, I’ve really tried to turn over a new leaf and learn to love this season. Here are a few things slowly changing my mind about summertime -

Summer Dresses. I love being able to throw on a sun dress (like this one from J Crew), sandals, a pair of earrings and walk out the door. The simplicity of summer clothes and getting dressed during the summer months really can’t be beat.

Ice Cream. I could eat it for every meal (specifically, mint chocolate chip and cookies & cream).

Bright Nail Colors. I’ve had so much fun this summer trying out all of Essie’s brightest shades. From Turquoise & Caicos (which I’m wearing now and love) to Bermuda Shorts, I'm eager to try them all before the darker, duller nail colors of Fall and Winter take over.

The Beach. On one of our first weekends in Orange County, my boyfriend and I ventured to an amazing dog beach in Huntington Beach. If summer clothes, cool treats, and fun nail colors don’t turn me into a summer enthusiast, the beach just might.

Summertime Cocktails. There’s really nothing better on a summer day than sitting in the sun sipping on a cool, refreshing summer-appropriate cocktail. Sadly, studying for the Bar exam has temporarily severed my relationship with alcohol in all its forms. However, you better bet that my first day of freedom will be spend indulging in a summer drink.

Catching My Attention

I’m not going to subject you all to my ramblings about the Bar exam – my blog shouldn’t be a place for such misery.  I will say, however, that I’ve spent a lot of time of late trapped behind my desk attempting to cram more information into my brain than I ever thought possible. The monotony of studying and the anxiety I’m now feeling on an almost hourly basis leave little time during the day for anything enjoyable. However, there are a few things that I indulge in almost daily that never cease to put a smile on my face –

Frostings Cupcakes. I’m so lucky to have a wonderfully supportive boyfriend – he listens to me complain (a LOT) about studying, listens to my concerns about taking the exam, calms me during my many panic-induced anxiety attacks, and surprises me with Frostings Cupcakes on the days I need  them most :) I discovered Frostings a few weeks ago while suffering from a pretty strong cupcake craving and Frostings did not disappoint. The red velvet is amazing – I could easily eat one (or five) a day without pause. Also, Frostings is conveniently located a few minutes from boyfriend’s office – fate? I think so!

Golden Spoon. The boyfriend and I have been frequent visitors of Golden Spoon since first discovering it a few months ago. All of the flavors are amazing but my favorite might have to be the Peanut Butter Cup (with marshmallows on top, of course).

Doggie Duds. If you follow me on Twitter (which you should!) you know that I recently took my two pups to a much needed grooming appointment. Now that their hair is shorter I have such an urge to dress them and cannot wait until the temperatures drop. My favorite online shop to troll is Doggie Couture Shop. I ordered this Juicy hoodie from them earlier this year and was very satisfied with the service and selection. Watch out pups – momma’s coming with polos and printed t’s!

Bethanny Getting Married . I freakin’ l ove Bethanny, enough said.

Trend of the Month: July

Today, the temperatures in Orange County have reached the triple digits. While I love sun and would generally much prefer being warm over being cold, I must admit that I’m not a fan of this heat (probably due in large part to the fact that the air conditioner in my car is broken making any drive – no matter the distance – pretty unbearable). Because the temperatures have risen and are showing no signs of dropping, the trend I’m loving for the month of July (well, what’s left of it) is the loose cotton tank top. This lightweight tank by Bobi (available on Piperlime) is exactly what I need to stock my closet full of to make it through the rest of the summer. The minimalistic fabric and punchy red-orange color perfectly satisfy all my needs in a cotton tank.

Thrifty Thursday

As in other states, the temperatures have really been climbing lately in southern California. For the last couple months the typical summer weather that we southern Californians are used to (read: HEAT and SUN) was nonexistent and looked like it might never make an appearance. Well, it finally has. Now that the temperatures are rising I find myself obsessively browsing for sun dresses, bikinis, and sandals online. Below are a few of my favorite sandal finds - all under $50!

How fun are these Steve Madden Erinn sandals?! I envision them with a simple black or white sundress and piles of gold jewelry. Priced at only $39.99 (on sale on Piperlime) they're a steal!

Not only are these Mia Hayat sandals ($29.99-$39) a great bargain for a summer shoe, but they can so easily transition into any fall weekend wardrobe. With a suede exterior and slightly more coverage than your average sandal, these will look fabulous as the temperatures drop paired with some skinny jeans and basic t's.

Along with a great pair of jeans and that little black dress, every closet should also be home to a simple pair of nude sandals (seriously, they'll go with everything during the summer months). These Michael Antonio Dava sandals are a great buy at only $29.99 and are interesting enough that you won't be bored buying such a necessary basic.

Which ones are your favorite?

Pretty Ugly

Do you ever find yourself attracted to an item of clothing/accessory/pair of shoes that you know deep down is really truly ugly? And yet, for some reason you're drawn to this item and feel compelled to purchase it even though you know it's ugly and, if you were to see said item on someone else, you would most likely judge her? Enter the Jeffrey Campbell Cayman sandals pictured to the right. Although I can't articulate exactly what it is, there's something about them that I like. These sandals really are great in theory - gladiator sandals are fabulous and leopard print is great for spicing up an otherwise neutral outfit. However, I also know that they're pretty darn hideous and if I were to spot them on anyone else, I wouldn't look twice. Thankfully, my rational side has taken control and I'm not purchasing these. But I have to say - looking at these sandals and contemplating adding them to my shoe collection them made me wonder, what other "pretty-ugly" items do I have hidden in my closet?

Return to Blogging

I'm so sorry for having been MIA for so long. I try to reveal as little about myself as possible on the blog (in the hope of remaining anonymous) but because I've been gone for so long I figure I should let you all know why. I just graduated from law school and am currently studying for the bar exam. Studying for finals at the end of May, graduation, Bar prep courses, and now Bar studying have kept me preoccupied for the last few months and, sadly, have caused me to neglect the blog. I'm going to try to keep posting at least a couple times a week because I've really missed it!

Here are a few things I've been obsessing over while shopping online during my frequent study breaks:

I absolutely need these gold Tory Burch Revas. I've been trying to come up with my perfect bar exam outfit (well, outfits actually since the exam is a god-awful three days long) and these shoes must be a part of it.

I've been wanting a good pair of basic denim jeggings since last Christmas (as evidenced in this April post). I recently discovered these jeggings at the Gap and can't wait to get a pair!

And last but not least, nail polish! Studying for the Bar exam is beyond brutal. Everyday I sit for hours in the same chair, in the same room, reading, writing, and highlighting the most boring and tedious information imaginable (wow, drama queen much?!). Because I spend approximately 8 hours a day staring at my fingers, nail polish has become a very important little joy in my life. I recently placed an order with Essie and am most excited to receive Mink Muffs. After reading in the most recent Glamour that "greige" nails are the new "it" color for the Fall, I thought I'd better test drive the trend.