Winter Afoot

Happy Monday, ladies! Here's a rundown of my cas weekend attire (and can you spot my pup - aka Trouble - in some of these pics?):

Sweater: Per Una by Marks & Spencer (worn here before - similar here or -ish here)

Dress: Mossimo by Target tiered

Belt: Anthropologie looping lanes (thanks to Julie from the EA trade market - similar here)

Tights: Target

Shoes: Xhiliration by Target teanna

Necklace: Laila Rowe (similar-ish here)

Top: Anthropologie Splendid two story (on sale, check stores - similar here)

Jeans: Banana Republic classic skinny (worn here before - similar here)

Earrings: Target (similar here or here)

Shoes: Anthropologie raines / Seychelles ring in the new year (worn here before - similar here as a booty)

And this is why short Lisa can't wear wide-leg jeans ...

Top: J. Crew milliner tissue tee (worn here before - similar-ish here)

Sweater: J. Crew cielo ruffle (similar here or color here)

Jeans: Gap essential (similar here)

Shoes: Guess Lawri (worn here before - similar here or lux here)

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The lovely Anne sent me an e-mail last week asking if I could put together a few recs for cold-weather footwear essentials. Now, I know we've all got spring fever, but if you live anywhere north in the States (or San Francisco, apparently), you're either still covered or you know there's yet another snow storm or two in the horizon, so unfortunately many of you gals are not out of the cold foot trenches just yet. Plus now is the perfect time of year to invest in a few cold weather pieces at fantastic savings ... So here are my decidedly "un" expert ideas on what I consider essential winter footwear:

♣  The All-Weather Snow Boot: Gotta have a pair - that's all I can say. Traction. Warmth. Waterproof. My Ugg DeSotos have taken me through Christmas snowpocalypse in NYC faithfully - just make sure yours has the rugged sole like these. They stayed blissfully warm and dry through three hours of shoveling and several other hours of snow frolicking. Sorels also can't be beat - they got the fur!

♣  The Rain Boot: If you live in a warmer weather clime, puddle jumpers are essential footwear as winter precipitation is rain. I personally prefer classic styles but this the perfect style to play up some bold color or fun pattern. My big sis swears by her Burberrys, but my personal faves are Kamiks as the insoles are padded and they've got awesome traction.

♣  The Flat Boot: Wanna the footies completely covered, sublimely comfortable and still be stylish? Then flat boots are for you. There are literally thousands of options out there - my flats for fall included ones from Bed Stu and Anthro (why have I not purchased shoes from Anthro until this winter?) Frye and Madden also make reliable and stylish options - think classic styling, unique details like brass rivets or buckles, a versatile pair you can wear with anything.

♣  The Heeled Boot: This is another style with two million options, but I'd say opt for go-with-anything colors black and brown first. I especially love these ridonkulous hot Choos or Pradas, but I must admit to clomping around like a baby trucker elephant in my heeled boots, so I'd opt for brands like Born that make super-comfy stacked heels that still rock.

♣  The Bootie: This was my cold-weather go-to shoe when I needed the footie coverage but still wanted to rock a cute skirt or dress. I'm a newbie to booties so I only own a basic pair by Vince Camuto but I really dug the lace-up combats, like ones by Seychelles for a more urban look.

What do you gals think? What are your cold-weather foot essentials? What gets you through the winter?

Faded Frills

OK, it's not like I've been out of the office for a long time or anything, but I feel like I have zero idea of what is going on. I've been slam-hammered at work today playing catch-up and have that lovely feeling of anxiety in the pit of my stomach of all the stuff that still needs to be done. And I won't get into too much detail about how the BF decided he didn't want to do a lick of laundry or cleaning or food shopping that whole time I was gone - nope, won't get into that ... leaving that alone ... not still bothered at all or anything ...

This is just a round-about way of me trying to tell you that I didn't have the time (or brain power) to get too creative with my outfit today. Thank goodness for Anthro's unique pieces that can help bring some personality to an otherwise bland ensemble.

What do you do to get yourself back into the swing of your routine after a long time gone?

Tank: Faded Glory by Walmart (worn here before - similar online here or ruffly version here)

Sweater: Anthropologie Guinevere Roaming Frills (worn here before)

Skirt: H&M drop-pocket (now in stores - or similar online here in teal for cheap!)

Shoes: Keds Spright wedges (worn here, here and here before - similar online here and here)

I heart this skirt so much that I wore it once already on Sunday:

Top: BDG by Urban Outfitters (worn here and here before - similar online here)

Shoes: Guess Lawri (worn here and here before - similar online here or luxe version here)

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Someone shot me an e-mail a few days ago asking what had happened to my recipe posts - well, I have been a total lackey in the kitchen front the last few weeks and have been pulling through recipe repeats or not taking pics of my meals. A gal's still got to eat, though, so I've been cooking, but case in point, dinner from last night - build-your-own-taco night isn't pretty or creative (but at least it was good!)



Late September

I made it to the UK in one piece! And got near-zero sleep on the plane as I was fighting discomfort and watching The Back-up Plan, Letters to Juliet, and the A-Team. I'm staying at a hotel in the Docklands area which is a newer (?) part of the city that I've never been to before - which is great for exploring. I met with a friend for dinner at Gaucho and wore the following:

Top: Lands' End Canvas gingham poplin (previously worn here and here - similar online here and here)

Jacket: J. Crew herringbone blazer (worn here before - kind of similar online here)

Jeans: Lands' End modern flare (similar online here)

Shoes: Guess Lawri wedge (worn here before - similar online here)

Bag: J. Crew tote

Scarf: kind of overkill for the fall weather

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I am still in partial sleep deprivation mode, but because I am in a fall state of mind and still kind of upset by the SE's lack of progress in joining the rest of the country in chilling weather, here is a fall OOTD I didn't really wear out (but want to and threw on for fun last week). I busted out these tights that I got on $5 super-sale earlier this year with this new cozy sweater dress also scored on sale (which is snuggle warm and not at all itchy).

Dress: Anthropologie Cordial Embrace by Sparrow
Top: Anthropologie Curated tee by Little Yellow Button (worn here before)
Belt: Anthropologie Infinity
Tights: Anthropologie Berry Bush in black (similar online here)
Shoes: Franco Sarto pumps (similar but pricey online here)

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I know the October new arrivals are the buzz of the Anthro-loving community today, and I wanted to share some of my new wishlist toppers. Cozy sweaters are definitely some of my new favorites for this year, which also includes the sweater dress in bright wintery colors.

What's on your Anthro wishlist for fall/winter? Have you noticed your tastes changing as you put together your needs list for each season?

Stand Out

Guess - Amazed

This is a beautiful, classically shaped pump by Guess. I adore the idea of amping up fall's neutrals with a little pop teal, don't you? These are all but guaranteed to get you noticed. Instead of blending in you'll stand out. Ain't nothin wrong with that.

Black and Lace

I grew up as a bit of a tomboy and was never much of a lace and bow-wearing gal, so I was chagrined when my big sis bought me this top last year (she is very much a bow-wearing gal and has tried forever to turn me into more of a girly-girl). So it has languished in my closet until now, when I tweaked it a bit and thought of something I could pair with it that could toughen it up a little.

So here was my outfit from yesterday, when the weather was more glum (it is beauteous today!):

This blouse originally had TWO black bows on it - can we say overkill?

And yes, I know the bow resembles the same one the Colonel has.

Close up of the cute satin-y lining - yes, a fully lined F21 jacket!

Jacket: Forever 21 quilted zip

Blouse: Forever 21 tiered lace sleeveless

Jeans: old as dirt Banana Republic boot cut

Shoes: Guess Lawri wedges

Stoney Friend - and a Big Thanks!

You gals ever have an old friend call out of the blue and essentially invite themselves to stay overnight at your place? Well that's what is happening with BF and I - which means, "yay" to seeing an old friend, but "meh" on the sudden timing. So between running errands and, oh yeah, work, I have to scour the house to find some sheets for our guest bed, need to find another place to stack our still-packed boxes and have to put the guest bath in order (we've only lived in our new place for a few weeks now so unfortunately our guest room has been sorely neglected). And I think we're taking him out to dinner too and then need to take him to the airport tomorrow after his meeting ... sheesh, old friends are a lot of work.  :o)

My OOTD is focused on comfort with a small attempt of still looking remotely stylish. And I got to wear my new favorite necklace from Urban Outfitters - what I am considering as the "urban" cousin to Anthropologie's Stormy Sea necklace. (Sorry, the lighting sucks - I'm still trying to find a good place to take pics in this house).

And the BIG THANKS goes to Tippy for the awesome Chilewich tote I won on her blog. I love her sense of chill style and I want to steal her wardrobe. The tote is huge and made out of some sort of coated canvas so it's good wherever. Plus it doesn't look like your mom's beach tote. Thanks again!

Here's me rockin' the tote - or the tote's rockin' me.

I'm so excited about my new bag that I danced myself right out of frame and sideways!

Here's a close-up of the necklace. Pictures don't do it any justice. It reminds me of beach glass (though I really think the "stones" are plastic). Regardless, I'm in love ... love ... love.

Sweater: J. Crew wool shawl collar popover
Tee: J. Crew ruffly tissue-y silk-y tank
Jeans: Ann Taylor slim bootcut
Shoes: Guess Lawri wedges
Necklace: Urban Outfitters multi stone bib necklace
Tote: Chilewich beach tote

Gorgeous Black Bootie

Can't wait to see what kind of visitors I get because of that post title ;) But seriously folks, I have been eyeballing these bad boys for a long while now. Sadly, heels.com is sold out of my size but don't worry I signed up to be notified when/if my size comes back in stock. Anyhoo I really think these would be the perfect addition to my shoe closet. They really strike that balance between feminine and fierce so perfectly. That balance I've been searching for, for well over a year now.

Planet - Guess

Seriously? Seriously! These are hot. From the lace up, to the bondage like straps and the silver toned hardware, and the super skinny 4 inch stiletto heel. Aye mami! How could anyone not feel fabulous in these?

Built In

Guess - Buster

Gadget - Fergie

I've been taking notice of this smart little addition to boots over the past couple of months and the more I see it, the more I like it.  It seems like a great way to be both fashionable and cozy.  A feat that can be challenging as the weather cools. Buster features a soft suede upper and 4 inch siletto heel and Gadget features gorgeous cognac leather and a delightful cone shaped heel.  The socks look like they could be tucked away too which would make them transition well into an evening look.  Up for day, down for night.  I like it.

A Bright Spot

Guess - Kudrow 3

Make a stylish entrance in this pretty spotted pump by Guess. A lovely gray toned fabric upper meets a hotter than hot pink 1/2 inch platform and 4 inch stiletto heel. You're sure to be the center of attention in these. Gotta love that!

A little video for your viewing pleasure...

Platform A Go-Go

Hurrah! Heels.com has uploaded loads of gorgeous shoes to their site and you can bet your sweet little ass I'll be featuring my faves. First up...

Guess Shoes - Birclay

Yummy yum. Ugh. I really love this. That super thick platform (1 and 1/4 inches to be exact) will certainly ease the blow of the 4.5 inch stiletto heel. I adore the delicate criss cross ankle straps and the patent leather piping along the edge. Sassy. Flirty. Hot. That's how you'll feel when you're strutting your stuff. This gorgeous pump is slightly reminiscent of this one... don't ya think?

Yves Saint Laurent - Platform Pump

Poor Man's Pigalle

If you are a lover of all things shoes like I am you have certainly seen these by now. Seriously, why does that Louboutin have to be such a friggin GENIUS. It's pure torture, I tell you.

Louboutin - Pigalle 10 Studded Pumps

Guess - Carlile Pump

Now while these aren't an exact replica, obviously, they do show hints of the Pigalle, especially in the shape. And I do sort of love the capped studded detailing as opposed to the all over studs on the Loubies. Now add in the contrasting heel which has the sheen of a metallic and this is a spectacularly sassy pump. Let's have a little look see at what these bad boys look like on, shall we?

Man I really love that video feature on heels.com. A seriously ingenious move.

Lace Me Up

So, so, sorry I've been such a lame ass blogger. I'm exhausted. Which is funny since I'm coming off my second 4 day weekend in a row. I don't know what's going on with me but I'm just feeling a little blah. It's ridiculous, really. Let's perk up shall we?

Guess - Chief 3

Oh man I think I found just the shoe to do it. A perfectly pretty peep toe designed to bring out the inner girlie girl in all of us. I mean if a bow and lace won't do it then I don't know what will. Not only are these girlie but they are tres sexy too. Add in that 4 inch stiletto heel and 1 inch platform and you can let your inner vixen shine through. Think I just might have to have these.

ME-OW!

Okay so let me preface this by saying I do, in fact, realize that the print on these shoes is zebra however you will certainly be channeling your inner sex kitten while your pouncing around in these.

Digitally by Guess

Don't you just love that contrasting 4 inch scarlet stiletto heel? The design is so simple yet so incredibly sexy. From the single strap at the vamp to the uniquely shaped ankle strap with elastic detailing. In a sea of straps and embellishments and studs I find these delightfully refreshing. Sometimes simplicity really is best.

Stud Week - Twofer Tuesday

Tuesday, Tuesday, Tuesday! For one day only two pairs of studded shoes for your viewing(and perhaps purchasing)pleasure. We're going crazy folks! Craaaaaaazzzzyyyy! Be there!
(Sorry. I just had to add that last sentence in. Isn't that what they always say after those ads?)

Guess Winter Studded Sandal

I'm not sure what the powers that be over at Guess were thinking when they named this shoe because it certainly does not remind me of winter. That cool hue does remind me of the beach and a crystal clear blue ocean. I am absolutely loving the tonal studs. A detail I have noticed on some other selections as well. A delightfully sexy shape this little "winter" wedge will be just perfect for summer.

Generama, Kenneth Cole

Natural hued, distressed leather gives a new attitude to this gladiator by Kenneth Cole. I think the color kind of gives them a feminine vibe and the studs really boost these into overdrive. A back zip allows for easy on and off. Perfect for throwing on for a quick run to the store or a night out on the town.

Hot Damn!

I had a not so pleasant experience with that particular flavor of schnapps in college but that is a story for another day. I will tell you I haven't had it since. LOL! Anyhoo it's certainly no secret that the sappiest of holidays is quickly approaching and there are quite a lot of websites featuring shoes in the prettiest of red and pink hues. I must admit when it comes to Valentine's Day I feel the same way as my fellow shoe lover and (I hope I'm not being presumptuous) cyber friend Celine a.k.a. The Shoe Girl. But I'm certainly not going to let that stop me from featuring some of my favorite finds from the shoe sites. I may not celebrate V-Day but I do love me some red and pink shoes.

Delano Slingback - Vince Camuto

Yummy, yum, yum, yum. Adore. A soft raspberry hue meets a strong stacked heel with fab contrasting details. Modern and feminine this shoe will take you from work to a night out on the town in style.

Betseyville, Adan

You'll be pretty as a picture in this Betseyville pump. With it's petal pink patent leather upper and that fabric polka dot edge with scalloped details plus the peep toe topped with that sweet little bow. Girlie enough for ya?

Guess - Ventura

From the ultimate in femininity to a pump with a sleek modern edge. If the Betseyville Adan is too saccharine for your tastes then let me introduce you to Ventura by Guess. Gleaming patent leather with a split vamp and an architectural stacked wooden heel all combine with striking results.

Syria Bow Pump - Guess

I love this shoe. That bow looks like it is formed from the softest of leather and that threading around the edge... so delightful. I especially enjoy the D'Orsay styling and that sexy peep toe and 4 inch tapered heel.

Via Spiga Mavis

Talk about a shoe with some MAJOR sex appeal. The Via Spiga Mavis is goooorgeous! Ugh this is definitely my favorite of the bunch. Pair these with that "come hither" look and you are all but guaranteed some S-E-X. You might not even make it to the bedroom. LOL! Those multiple buckled straps and that snake print detail... LOVE!