Leather Frame Wallet

I really like the look of this Garland Frame Wallet.

There are so many slots and pockets for everything, but since it's a framed shape, it's not going to get bulgy (bloated wallets are nice to have because it means lots of moola, but the overstuffed look isn't good on anything).

Also, since it's a slow Monday, check out the Baghaus clearance sale for up to 60% off on selected styles.

Funky Peep Toes

These are shoes that not everybody will like, but I think they're fantastic!

These Bardot C Peep Toe Pumps are so different with it's laser-cut details and jagged sides - very edgy. Comes in black, bone, green, and turquoise.

Long Cardis

Recently, I've been enjoying my shorter length tops and sweaters (the ones that hit at high hip or are cropped - with a cami or tank underneath). I've been enjoying how my waistline looks higher, thus my legs look longer, and in turn, I look taller.

However, I'm intrigued by the longer length v-neck cardigans that have been hanging around.

I love the bright colors that are available in the Lux Basic Long Cardigan.

For a supremely soft and lightweight cardi, the Michael Stars Long Cardigan Supima Long Sleeve definitely fits the bill. It looks so relaxed but still clean and put together.

When buttoned up, the row of buttons create a vertical line which is helpful for creating the illusion of length. However, it is important to make sure that this style doesn't mess with your body proportions too much making your torso look long and your legs stubby. Tall girls don't need to worry about this, but some of us may not want to make our legs look any shorter. Also, it's important to check where the cardigan ends on your body - don't need it to end right around the widest part of your hips because that's just going to emphasize them.

Around the Sales

Nothing like a few sales to get everyone psyched for the weekend!

An adorable pleated leather clutch with suede lining, the Andarei Capri in Pewter is elegant but would be wonderful for day too (was $315.00, now $157.50).

The Rochelle Rodriguez Lucy Dress in Black is a simple tank dress with a tie-back so you can cinch the waist for a very flattering fit (was $124.00, now $62.00).

Another waist cinching dress, this Velvet Emmaline Dress has some lovely pleating and 3/4 sleeves if you don't feel like showing your arms (was $150.00, now $60.00).

A sexy, sophisticated pair of Alice + Olivia Wide Leg Pants are fantastic to wear to work, but would also be hot when paired with a sexy top for night out (was $275.00, now $137.50).

Sam Edelman Metallic Flats from SmartBargains

My last few shoe purchases were all for sky high heels and in preparation for spring, I'd like to have some flats to run around in.

Sam Edelman flats are pretty comforable and for the most part, they're cut a little lower with a touch of toe cleavage.

These Sam Edelman Cruz Metallic Leather Flats in pewter are so cool. I was never a fan of the big logo on the vamp (made famous by the Tory Burch Reva Flats), but these for some reason, I like these.

Keep up with the ombre trend in a subtle way with these Sam Edelman Carmen Ombre Flats with Chain. Shoes are a good way to incorporate trends without it being too "in your face" and thus it would be easier to keep wearing these when the trend dies down a little when you might not want to wear an ombre top or dress.

The Sam Edelman Cyprus Sequined Dress Flat is also pretty nifty. All glittery with sequins in a crosshatch sort of pattern in a rose gold tones that is different but still incredibly versatile. The perfect little flat to add some sparkle to an outfit.

Victoria's Secret VPL

Of all places, you'd think that Victoria's Secret would not have issues with their models having VPL.

However, when I came across this Pencil Skirt in Stretch Cotton, I realized that just because you're a huge lingerie company doesn't mean you'll equip your models with anti-VPL panties when they're on a photo shoot for your website and catalog.

Or perhaps, that IS anti-VPL underwear and the skirt is JUST THAT TIGHT. The skirt looks pretty hot on the model and trust VS to create a curve-hugging pencil skirt, but this is a little too skin-tight for my liking.

It's a shame, because it does come in my current favorite neutral - navy.

Bloomingdales 3-Day Sale

I just swung by Bloomingdales.com and found that they were having a 3 day sale (March 26-28th) - take 20% off orders up to $299.99 and 25% off orders $300 or more.

This adorable Eyelet Hobo was already a great deal $38.99, but with the discount, it's down to $31.19! The perfect bag for toting all your goodies on those warm, relaxing spring and summer days, it has a snap closure and interior organizational pockets. Comes in pink, turquoise, and black (all with the white eyelet overlay).

(Also check out the bag from this previous post which will now be discounted.)

Cotton Pique Pencil Skirt

How to get in trouble shopping online:

(1) Have practical guidelines like the one from the previous post about how white is hard to buy online.

(2) See something like this Signature Stretch Piqué Collection Pencil Skirt.

(3) Start making up exceptions to get around practical guidelines (e.g. cotton pique is usually a thicker fabric and less likely to have the sheerness issue).

The skirt is very shapely made a unique fabric with an interesting texture. However, is it worth going against the almighty guidelines?

If not, it does come in black and scarlet also.

Green Shell, White Skirt

One of my favorite new items in my wardrobe is the City Style Scoop Neck Shell. It's a lovely fresh green color and incredibly soft (fabric content is 58% silk, 22% nylon, 20% rayon). It's like my favorite tank tops but much more dressed up. I like pairing with a sweater jacket or blazer. Plus, I don't mind leaving the jacket/blazer open because unlike my favorite (read: dingy and well-worn) tank tops, this top is presentable.

I would love to wear the shell with this fantastic City Style Button Skirt. The vertical row of buttons is lengthening and looks cool. Sadly, most of the white skirts at the New York and Company store were pretty sheer and this one probably falls in the same category. It's difficult to find white skirts/pants that aren't see-through, so it's usually best to shop for these items in a regular ol' store where you can check for sheer-ness.

Hot Wrap Dress for Summer

The dresses in my closet consist mainly of soft, jersey dresses like this In Dept Tomato Wrap Dress.

Jersey is the perfect fabric for summer. Plus, with some heavier fabrics that don't drape, figures can get lost unless the dress fits really well. We've all seen those dresses or skirts with stiff fabric and you lose all semblance of a butt.

I go back and forth on my opinion of the asymmetrical hem. Sometimes it looks cool and different, but then other times, it just looks unfinished and messy.

The idea of the alternating strips is nice, but these stripes are all about emphasizing the hip/butt area so if those are areas on your body that need enhancing, this would work. However, if you don't want any extra hip/butt attention, this probably isn't your dress.

The hot tomato color on this dress is just great. Nothing like a spicy hot color to go with the hot summer weather that is just around the corner (kind of).

Raveena V-Neck Review

I tried on this adorable Raveena V-Neck tank recently and sadly, it didn't work so hot on me.

I loved the bold blocks of orange (the straps and hem are a different color from the waistband) as well as the gorgeous print. Plus, from the front, it looks like the back would be strappy, but it's a full back which is nice and different.

Problem was, in my regular size, it wouldn't zip up. The bodice fit perfectly when I went a size up, but then I was getting a lot of boob gaping. Plus, the flare at the hem is intense and very voluminous. Both these issues are fixable by a tailor, but I suppose I didn't need the top quite enough to put the time/money/effort into getting it tailored.

Still, it's a gorgeous, well-constructed top. Bonus points because you can wear a regular bra with this pretty top.

Pretty Peep Toes for Spring

Spring is here! Time to take your feet out of their winter boot prisons and prepare them to be shown off.

For a simple, elegant option that can go to work (if your office allows), try the Pazzo Patter at left. A lovely suede peep toe pump with a stacked heel, instep cutout, and a button to finish.

If you're looking for something more for fun, check out the Guess by Marciano Savor. The cutout wedge heel, patent leather, and metallic edging make this one outstanding shoe and perfect for a night out.

Leather Buckle Zip Tote

This oversized Leather Buckle Zip Tote is sensational.

The shape, soft leather, gentle pleating, exterior pockets, and side buckles details all contribute to make this bag so luxe.

Golden Touch Tank and Perfect Measure Jacket Reviews

Recently, as a treat, I got to pick out a couple of items at anthropologie.

The Golden Touch Tank is an adorable surplice top but there's not too much fabric under the bustline, so it avoids the "preggers look." The black/white print is pretty and versatile. The description mentions "hints of gold" but I have checked and checked again and I can't find any gold whatsoever. This means I have either gone colorblind to gold (hopefully not the case) or the description is inaccurate.

I don't have anything like the Perfect Measure Jacket in my wardrobe making it a nice addition. The color is labeled "brown" but it's more of a heather brownish-greyish-purplish-mauvish . It fits quite differently on me than the mannequin (which is why I included a crappy phone-picture). I adore the oversized buttons and they're sewn on with green thread. The cropped shape is great for making me look taller and for showing off a cute top (like the aforementioned Golden Touch Tank) or a great belt.

Wrapables.com

Just discovered Wrapables.com and found some delightful items.

This Gin Emerald Jade Apple Pendant Necklace is just precious. A three-dimensional pendant in a sumptuous, deep green color is sure to be a standout necklace.

The Sienna Brass Snap Frame Clutch makes me break my own rules about how clutches should have wrist straps. Made of soft ultrasuede and featuring a pretty floral print, who would mind holding on to this clutch all night?

There are also chic and practical items like this Labyrinth Laptop Tote. The tote comes in 2 sizes, is padded to protect your laptop, comes with a removable shoulder strap, and is made of PVC coated cotton (so it's water-resistant). The larger size has extra room for all your papers and laptop accessories.

Purchasing Pants Online

Buying pants online is a very tricky process. There are so many areas that can make a pair of pants look completely wrong on a person and the only way to find the perfect pair is to try them on.

In order to make it a little easier, Victoria's Secret is offering free shipping and returns on all their pants, just use the offer code "RISKFREE" at checkout. The Marisa Fit Wide Waistband Pant in Twill at left is a nice basic cotton pant with a side button closure. For $29.50 (or 2 for $50) and no shipping/return costs, they're worth a shot.

At right is the Alexa Low-Rise Flare Pant is another pant with a great price tag. This pant is a cotton-spandex blend and for the most part, pants with stretch is preferable just because it usually provides a better fit. Don't forget that there's free shipping on dELiA*s orders $25 or more, plus $25 Daisy Dollars with code DWCAFF (valid through 3.26.08).

Recently, navy colored pants have caught my attention (both these pants come in navy). Due to a navy school uniform in a previous life, it's taken me a long time to embrace navy, but it really is a tremendous color - a dark neutral that's more interesting (since it's less oft used) and less harsh than black. In order to avoid the school uniform look, avoid wearing too much navy in one go and pair it with the bright, bold colors of the season.

Free Shipping @ ATL This Weekend

Ann Taylor Loft is having free shipping on any order now through Monday, March 24th (11:59pm EST).

Check out great pieces like this adorable feminine Tie Neck Ruffle Front Top.

Miriam Parker Review

I just purchased and received the Miriam Parker mentioned in this post.

It's a basic coat that will be good for cold days. The zippers at the chest aren't actually pockets, but there is a little pocket on the left arm although I don't know what I'd put in there. It is lined in polyester and the hood trim/lining is acrylic.

It's not heavily padded so it may not be the ideal coat for the most bitter-cold days, but at $39.99, it's a very good deal for what it is.

Bright Sweater-Jacket & Skirt

The 525 Toggle Hoodie is a thick knit toggle sweater-jacket is a great substitute for a light jacket on those spring days. The lovely lemony color is perfect.

A bright colored skirt will definitely make a statement this spring, especially in this sexy and shapely Susana Monaco Slim Skirt.

Giraffe Print Loafers

These are the ASHH loafers in giraffe print.

An adorable, yet comfortable shoe.

Click here to get 25% off everything at Steve Madden 3/20 – 3/24!

Layering Time

Cardigans are so perfect as the weather starts to fluctuate. A light layer than you can easily remove if you get too warm is great.

The French Connection 'Ella' Knit Cardigan is such a gorgeous color. Scoopnecks are very flattering for most figures and is a nice in-between a crewneck and a v-neck. The 3/4 sleeve is also great. Sometimes long sleeves are too covered up for my liking, but what use is a layer if it's not going to cover something?

Jeweled black buttons finish off this simple, yet adorable sweater.

50% off right now (was $98.00, now only $48.90!).

MICHAEL Michael Kors Pumps

These MICHAEL Michael Kors Leather & Faux Croc Pumps are an unexpected olive green (a "pseudo-neutral" that goes with most colors).

The faux crocodile platform is also a pleasant and surprising detail.

Get them right now since they're 60% off ($55.60, down from $139.00).

Budget Friendly Versatile Necklace

A simple 24-inch necklace, the Frosty Bead Necklace comes in gold or purple.

Wear with a dress or a simple tee, this necklace will look great for any occasion.

Now on sale for $14.99.

Maxine of Canada Wedge Boot

Here's a quick update to the Maxine of Canada Wedge Boot mentioned in this post:

These boots are absolutely wonderful. They are fully lined (the description says shearling, but it's more of a soft squishy padding), with a zipper, the toe is round, and it's made of "AquaTan Waterproof Leather." The tag notes that "salt, dirt and grime" will wipe off.

The 2-inch wedge is incredibly comfortable. The chocolate color is deep and rich, the heel is a slightly lighter shade of brown. The shaft of the boot is soft but not slouchy per se. I ordered half a size up to accommodate thicker socks, but I would have been ok with my regular size also.

All in all, this waterproof suede boot is a steal at (currently) $46.00.

Tough Boots for (Next?) Winter

It took me way too long to figure out how important it was to own a good pair of boots.

These Indigo by Clarks Women's Drake Mid-Calf Boot are perfect. A good rubber sole and a sockliner make sure this boot will keep you on your feet and warm.

And while some boots that help brave the winter elements look dorky, these are so cool looking and would be wonderful with your favorite pair of jeans. Oh, and no need to worry about these going out of style because these equestrian-style boots are so simple, they're timeless.

This post is so season inappropriate, but right now, there are great deals to help you be completely prepared for next winter!

Perlina "Stripes" Satchel

Pleated patent leather, exterior zip pocket, magnetic closure side pockets, interior organizational pockets, removable shoulder strap, and contrast stripes on the body and straps?

That would be the Perlina 'Stripes' Satchel.

This bag manages to be sophisticated and sporty at the same time.

It comes in this stunning lilac color that ensures you stand out from the crowd.

Favorite Basic Camis

These wardrobe staples always need replacing since they get a lot of wear.

Try the Old Navy Lace-Trim Tank for a twist on a favorite. Just top off with a little cardigan or jacket and you're ready to go.

The Old Navy Long Rib-Knit Tank is an item that you can buy in multiples (and in all colors) since they're so well priced. A great way to change up the look of an outfit is having a colored layering pieces.

When it comes to non-ribbed tanks/camis, the Banana Republic Cotton Stretch Camisole is fantastic. Made of incredibly soft cotton, they are just the right weight and length. Plus, the neckline isn't too high or low.

Wide Belts

Wide belts are great for emphasizing a waist. The ones with stretchy elastic seem to give the best formfitting effect. Belts without elastic can work, but sometimes they won't sit where you want as you move around.

The Leather Belt at left does not have elastic, but looks great. If the notches allowed (or if you're capable of adding your own), this could be a waist-cincher one day, and a hip slung belt the next.

At near right is the Wide Patent Belt, a simple belt that comes in tons of colors, and the Stretch Tortoise Belt (far right) has a classic pattern that is bold and interesting.

Black & White @ ATL

A basic combo of black and white is easy to wear, but always right.

Left to Right:

Textured Cotton Sheath Dress (it's nice to have pockets on a dress, but if you don't want extra attention to your hips, you may want to avoid this piece),

Floral Printed Scoop Neck Cardigan (a nice patterned knit, the row of buttons down the front creates an elongating line down the front of the torso),

Botanical Garden Pleated Skirt (linen is the perfect summer fabric, but it can look very casual, the floral print and contrast waistband and hem make this skirt more sophisticated).

Adorable Eyelet Dress

A simply shaped white cotton dress, the City Style Eyelet Shift Dress is perfect for summer.

Load up on the jewelry and wear with your favorite heels for a dressy summer occasion, or pare down on the accessories and wear with your flat sandals for a sophisticated casual look.

Simply Vera

Was browsing the Simply Vera by Vera Wang collection at Kohl's and found some cute stuff.

The Framed Canvas Satchel is a great shape that's been out there for spring but made in an unexpected material. The delightful "plum" purple and the contrast piping and handles make this bag different from all the others in your wardrobe. It's adorable how the handle on the exterior pocket is so unexpected and makes the bag look like it's smiling!

A couple of peep toe flats like the Vague Ballet Flats and Incisive Ballet Flats would be perfect for a business casual environment. The buckle details on these flats adds some interest to this basic little shoe.