New Year's Eve in Fur, Feathers & Fringe

1. mango jacket / 2. front row dress / 3. front row skirt / 4. bcbg headband / 5. h&m top / 6. nasty gal bag / 7. topshop dress / 8. asos heels / 9. h&m top / 10. piperlime dress / 11. deux lux clutch / 12. mango hairclips / 13. mango jacket

One of the trends that I can't get enough of this year is texture. I love, for example, that outerwear in a classic silohuette can be transformed into an eye-catching statement piece with the help of a little fur.

With New Year's Eve just a few days away, why not introduce a little texture into your party attire? Now, I love sequins just as much as the next gal, but can you really beat a fringe or fur dress?

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Sunday Browsing vol. 25

Happiest of Sundays, friends! Although I never had breakfast in bed this week, the past 6 days embodied what this picture represents - pure relaxation. It sounds ridiculous, but I honestly can't remember the last time I woke up to anything but an alarm - even on weekends. This week I broke that trend and it was glorious. I learned just how important it is to stop and relax, even if that means not checking off every item on my to-do list.

Here's to hoping you have a Sunday that resembles the one in the picture above! And enjoy a few links, of course.

• to celebrate: the ultimate new years eve bar checklist for Wednesday's festivities. 
• to adorn: dying to re-create an all-black version of this star crown for new year's eve.
• to drink: a spiced apple cider cocktail was my drink of choice this Christmas week.
• to follow: I've been crushing on Jess of prosecco & plaid for a few weeks - all of her instagram photos make me want to run to the nearest mall & if someone could teach me how to mimic her hair, that'd be great too.
• to shop: have you checked out ASOS sale yet?! Select merchandise is up to 50% off & there are plenty of goodies left! PS - this site is a great resource for all my soon-to-be momma friends!

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Off Duty

Merry Christmas Eve all! Starting yesterday, I have 6 days off from work (holla!) and it has been nothing short of fabulous. My days have been filled with Christmas preparations & celebrations, late wake up calls, Christmas movies, baking and simply enjoying being home. 

Wishing you and yours a very Merry Christmas, filled with love, laughter and a reminder of what is truly important in this life. 

j.crew tee / rachel zoe jacket, last seen here / nordstrom scarf / old jeans, crushing on a pair from madewell / nike shoes, similar (under $50 with code HOLIDAYTIME) / old navy bag, similar at target / maybelline lipstick

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Conversation Starter

It's always important to maintain a sense of humor when getting dressed, especially when wearing a fur coat (& a sweater with questionable graphics). 

You know those rare moments when a piece of clothing catches your eye from across the store & you're instantly in love? Well, that's my story with this fur coat. It was on serious sale on Black Friday and it was just the right fit - this never happens. 

I broke this bad boy out for the first time on our trip to new york and then decided to take it for another spin yesterday where it became quite the conversation starter. A few of my faves: "how often do you water that?", "do you have to shave it?"& "what sheep did you kill?". Don't worry all of these came from friends & family and was in good fun, with me laughing right along.

Now as for the sweater, I was informed when I wore it to work (I work in a pretty lax environment) that apparently: 1. the leaf resembles a drug that is quickly becoming legal in varying states & 2. this does pass as a christmas sweater. Call me naive, but I was completely oblivious to both when I bought the sweater a year ago. Don't worry, I still plan on wearing it and playing dumb :)

bp coat, similar from nordstrom & forever 21 / urban outfitters sweater (last seen here) /  zara pants / husband's beanie, similar at asos / french connection bag / vince camuto booties / movado watch

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Sunday Browsing vol. 24

Happy Sunday Friends! I know it's been only a step short of radio silence on the blog lately, so thanks for bearing with me. My mind is kind of blown by the fact that it is only 4 days before Christmas, and up until last night I was feeling a bit overwhelmed with the holiday season (big surprise, I know). However as we were spending a quiet evening celebrating Christmas a little early with family, I was reminded just how important this time of year can be, a time to reflect and reground on what actually holds weight in our lives. With that, I wish you a very merry Sunday!

A few links I'm loving lately:

• to give: this metallic deck of cards would make the perfect stocking stuffer.
• to give (DIY): loved this original idea for a gift wrapping kit.
• to shop: how fun is this metallic pleated dress?!
• to blog: I stumbled upon Christina's blog, the quarter life closet and fell instantly in love. So good!
• to be in awe: by far the most impressive bedroom makeover I have ever seen.
• to eat: I plan on making these (vegan) banana nut scones to accompany my over-indulgence this holiday.

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Unique Hostess Gifts

1. white whale cocktail mixers / 2. thug kitchen cookbook (seriously amazing!) / 3. furbish salt & pepper shaker / 4. jayson home spike pots / 5. anthropologie woodblock calendar / 6. leif bath salts / 7. leif coffee scoop (similar here) / 8. velvet crate holiday box / 9. c.wonder tea set

With only 8 days left until Christmas,  the next week is jam-packed with holiday celebrations of every variety. Since I'm still learning to be a grown-up (I can still claim that at 25, right?), I have been trying my best not to arrive to other's homes empty-handed, but instead with a small gift for the host. While the majority of the time I end up brining flowers or candle, I love the idea of stepping out of the box a bit with items like these spike pots or animal salt & pepper shakers. 

Now, if you're like me and usually running on an one-day life delay, velvet crate is your new hostess gift BFF. They offer beautifully curated, prepackaged gift sets that are covetable and would be a perfect  treat for anyone. The best part? Free shipping my friends, which means it's incredibly easy and painless to send.

True Confessions & Monday Sales

I totes wish that our apartment looked like the above right now, but I'm here to tell you that I'm currently starring at a lot of pine needles that need a little vacuum love and a kitchen table that is decorated with random mail, coats and work. 

Not surprising, I know. Also not surprising if you're a regular reader (hi, mom!) is this: this blog has not gotten much love lately. I'm completely stating the obvious here, but for those that are still hanging on, I wanted to give a quick shout out & a big thanks. There's no dramatic story to accompany the infrequency of my posts, except for that life has gotten in the way.

I started a new role about 6 months ago which I seriously love but is more time consuming and have tried my best to prioritize time with my husband and sleep. Moral of the story, I have many things planned & coming, but it might be a rocky road to get back up and running.

With that, I leave you with a few sales because if you're like me, you haven't crossed anyone off of your Christmas list.

• j.crew: 25% off purchase of $100, 30% off purchase of $150. Cardmembers receive 30% off entire purchase, all with code MERRYMERRY
• anthropologie: additional 30% off sale items with code EXTRAMERRY. A few things I'm loving: an adorable tote, the cutest measuring cups & the perfect stocking stuffer. 
• madewell: extra 30% off sale with code MERRIEST. The perfect time to stock up on a closet VIP, the chambray shirt.
• c.wonder: 30% off + free shipping!
• asos: 30% off select merchandise. This beauty semi-resembles a coat that my ultimate girl crush blake lively wore this spring.
• baublebar: 30% off everything with code INSTAGLAM.

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Gift Guide // Chicago & Cyber Monday Sales

 Is anyone else in complete disbelief that we are in the last month of 2014?! Seriously though, what happened?

It seems fitting that the first day of the biggest shopping month of the year is also cyber monday (#holla!) so I figured it is best to celebrate with another gift guide, this time inspired by my favorite mid-western city, Chicago. Click the image above to shop my finds!

Most of the black friday sales from this weekend have continued into today, but check out the list below for a few new ones to check out, and don't hesitate because they are good.

Cyber Monday Sales:

• vince camuto: 40% off entire purchase with the code CYBER.
• & other stories: 30% off purchase, check them out immediately! This is my absolute favorite store right now and they are only available online, unless you live in NYC.
• olive clothing: 20% off purchase with code CYBERMONDAY. This is my favorite UK brand right now!
• blank nyc: 40% off everything with BLANKCYBER. 
• french connection: 40% off sitewide with code FC40BF.
• need supply co.: 20% off everything with CYBER20. This is a fave of both mine & the husband!
• piperlime: 30% off everything with code CYBERSALE.
• sole sociey: 30% off entire site.
• baublebar: 20% off everything with code CYBER20.

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Black Friday Sales

If you're smart (& I know you are!) you spent the last 24 hours eating all that is good and American. So the only natural thing to do is work off those extra turkey and mashed potato calories (so good!) by walking the mall or my personal fav, moving your fingers to shop online. A complete list to all of the Black Friday goodness is below! Happy Shopping!

• ASOS: 30% off everything with code TGIBF.
• 6pm: 15% off - if you haven't heard, 6pm is a DSW-like deal site so an extra 15% off already reduced prices is too good!
• Anthropologie: huge Black Friday sale site-wide!
• Banana Republic: 50% off one full-priced item with code BRFIFTY & 40% off everything with code BRFORTY.
• Gap: 50% off site-wide with code BLKFRIDAY.
• BB Dakota: 30% off full priced items with code THANKS30, loving this shearling jacket or this dress for new years.
• Express: 50% off everything!
• J.Crew: 30% off full-priced items + an additional 40% off sale items with code HOLIDAY.
• Madewell: 25% off everything with code GIFTON. I'm making sure to check out their denim.
• Nordstrom: up to 40% off select items.
• Urban Outfitters: Additional 25% off sale items.

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An Old Friend

Most of the time, the pieces of clothing that I find hiding in the back of my closet are a bit scary. As I continue to discover my own personal style, I constantly find myself thinking "what was I thinking?!" during my semi-annual closet clean out sessions. 

The reason behind my deep, self-reflective wardrobe disappointment usually stems from pieces that I feel are too safe and boring. I am all about staples but as I've gotten a bit more adventurous in the wardrobe department some of my older clothing just seems a bit blah. 

I was pleasantly surprised however, when I rediscovered this feathered skirt I originally bought for my bachelorette party over two years ago. I haven't worn it much since, but after reuniting with this old friend I can't stop wearing it - she's accompanied me to a baby shower, work and a little dress up that resulted in these here photos all in the past week. How's that for make new friends, but keep the old?!

h&m blazer, similar at forever 21 / old tank, great option from topshop / h&m skirt, similar from piperlime & nordstrom rack / jeffery campbell shoes / forever 21 bag (comes in black too!)

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Sunday Browsing Vol. 23

Is anyone else in utter disbelief that we are only 4 days away from Thanksgiving? Craziness. Awesome craziness, of course. 

With visions of pumpkin pie and mashed potatoes that are dancing in my head about to become a reality, the husband and I decided to take an extremely low-key approach to this weekend, eating (semi) healthy and catching up on a few documentaries on netflix. Because you know, it makes total sense to watch hungry for change the week before Thanksgiving. #newyearsresolution.

Here's a few links I'm loving: 

• to shop: this winter, a leopard coat is high on my wish list. Loving this wallet-friendly option. 
• to wear: my old, faithful friend Jenna Lyons killed it once again in her wedding wear (scroll to the bottom!) for Solange Knowles' wedding. So, so good.
• to eat: excited to try this quinoa & kale salad this evening after spending a good chunk of time yesterday scrolling through Alexis' site. 
• to beautify: for all my short hair sisters out there, check out this simple hairstyle for ideas on how to mix it up. 
• to drink: ever heard of a cherry bounce? me either. I'm intrigued by the recipe though, since it has to mix for at least a month! Hows that for a little lesson the virtue of patience?
• to follow: do not hesitate for a minute to follow freddie on instagram and her blog, i got by frankie. She's an ASOS stylist who has some serious fashion sense, and I'm already in love.

Gift Guide // New York City

It's (almost) the most wonderful time of the year! Despite the husband being a bit of stickler about not celebrating Christmas until after Thanksgiving, I may or may not have been sneaking a few Christmas songs in on the drive home for work. Two points in my defense: 1. there's snow on the ground & 2. it's not my fault if there's a radio station already dedicated to Christmas music 24 hours a day.

All of this pre-Christmas celebration has me thinking about what I'm going to wrap up for friends and family this year, so I thought I'd put together a few gift guide to help us both sift through all the goodness.

This year, I thought it would be fun to create a few guides around cities that I've visited or plan to. First up, New York City. These gifts are inspired what comes to mind when I think of New York City - clean lines, chic accessories, a bold red lip & a little sparkle. The best news, everything is under $150!

Click the image above to browse!

All Black Everything

As I sit and finish up this post this morning, snow is pouring down outside. And while I'll be the first to admit I've had less then a positive attitude about winter, I can at least agree that the white, fluffy snow is rather pretty. Now, if only the husband will let me decorate a little early for Christmas?! 

There's not a chance. Trust me, I've already tried.

While my outlook on the winter months has started to soften, clearly my all-black wardrobe has remained. I'll blame the below freezing temps and the fact that I accidentally threw the outfit I wanted to wear in the laundry right before these photos were taken. A+ on the outfit planning over here.

 express sweater / zara jeans / french connection bag (under $50!), clutch version / timex watch / j.crew bracelet, similar version from j.crew factory / nordstrom hat, great options at asos & sole society / aldo booties, similar from express

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Sunday Browsing vol. 22 & Weekend Sales

Holy moly has this past week flown by. Between long hours and a quick trip to New York for work followed by a weekend jam-packed with celebrating people I love, I barely feel like there has been a moment to breathe. It's weeks like these that tend to unravel me a bit, but today I am focusing on how blessed I am to not only have a job but to be surrounded by the most amazing friends and family. My hope is that you are able to feel just as blessed and thankful this morning.

And of course, a few links to aide in your Sunday browsing!

• to watch: the top ten documentaries to watch on netflix. Perfect for the cozy days that are rapidly approaching!
• to watch x2: I've been catching episodes of House of DVF lately and have become fascinated with the woman behind her namesake brand. This interview with her and Stephen Colbert going toe to toe is just too good.
• to travel: I'll be venturing to Portland by myself over Thanksgiving for a dear friend's wedding and was excited to find these tips for traveling alone.
• to style: Really loving Kate Spade Saturday's new campaign, it's inspiring some print-mixing for the holidays.
• to eat: excited to try asian quinoa meatballs for dinner this week.
• to shop: I'm kind of loving this deer print coat, thoughts?

Don't forget these weekend sales too!

• j.crew factory: 40-60% off everything! how perfect would this dress be for holiday parties?
• kate spade: 25% off your entire purchase with code BEMERRY.
• madewell: extra 25% off sale items with code FALLBACK. Loving this cozy sweatshirt & these fun socks.
• gap: 30% off purchase with code HAPPY.
• bloomingdales: 20% off with code HOLIDAY.
• c.wonder: 30% off everything!
• lo & sons: 20% off all orders with code PRETHANKS2014. They're OG bag is my fave, last seen here. 

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Cozy Sunday

As the weather has turned to chilly temps, I've found myself with a void in the sweater department of my closet. This is likely due to the fact that when I should be buying sweaters or other seasonally appropriate clothing, a handbag or pair of shoes catch my eye. Lucky for me though, I wandered into H&M this weekend only to find this sweater calling my name. 

I couldn't find it online, but I would seriously consider popping into your nearest h&m to check this beauty out. It's under $40 and makes for a seriously cozy weekend (& happy wallet)!

h&m sweater, available in stores / banana republic jeans (similar from madewell) / old navy bucket bag / bp booties (seriously the best!)

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Sunday Browsing vol. 21

Happy Sunday Friends! I hope there is just as much sun streaming in your windows this morning as there is mine. This weekend was unexpectedly busy, but for all of the right reasons. The husband & I snuck in a dinner date on Friday night for our anniversary (2 years on Monday, crazy!), caught brunch with a out-of-town friend on Saturday morning and in true midwestern form, cheered on the ohio state buckeyes to win over michigan state last night with friends.

Today, I'm hoping to catch up on some to-do list items and maybe get myself lost in the internet blackhole for awhile. I've shared a few links & weekend sales below, enjoy!

• to read: This sweet note written by a soon-to-be dad to his daughter made me smile. 
• to DIY: if you're looking to get a jumpstart on christmas presents and don't want to spend a fortunate, check out Erin's punched metal hurricane DIY. It would make a great hostess gift too!
• to eat: Callie has me drooling lately with her latest recipes: pear chai latte & pumpkin biscuits with spicy portobello gravy - amazing!
• to wear: currently crushing on this poncho & this sequined top (i'm saving my pennies!)
• to drink: I followed this recipe for apple code moscow mules this weekend, they were easy to make & very yummy!

& a few weekend sales:

• j.crew: 25% off fall favorites with code GETWARM
• j.crew factory: extra 30% off everything with code EXTRA30
• westelm: 15% off with code YIPEE
• sole society: 30% off select merchandise
• nordstrom: save up to 40% on sale items
• gap: 30% off purchase with code HAPPY
• lo & sons: select bags up to 30% off

Fall Wardrobe Essentials // Pastels

1. zara skirt / 2. baulebar necklace / 3. chic wish dress / 4. chic wish sunglasses / 5. j.crew sweater / 6. chicwish top / 7. nasty gal bag / 8. baublebar bracelet / 9. baublebar earrings /  10. chicwish trench / 11. topshop earrings / 12. h&m skirt / 13. anthropology hat / 14. asos heels 

While my fall wardrobe currently reflects a more neutral, moody palette, I love the idea of of infusing a bit of the color in the form of pastels. Typically when I think of colder-weather colors my mind immediately goes to hues of greens, reds, and navy but an unexpected pastel pink or mint might me just what my closet (& mind) needs to pull me out of my fall-funk. 

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Basic Black

Every year I dread daylight savings in the fall, and this weekend was no different. Knowing that I will be driving home from work in the dark for the next few months is almost painful but I'm hoping to get out of my funk with the help of pumpkin flavored everything and a delicious cranberry candle I picked up over the weekend. 

I was reminded this past week that my attitude towards my cold-weather closet is about the same as fall daylight savings. I much prefer dresses, skirts & tanks to sweaters and jeans so I've decided my strategy this winter is to rely on a dark, moody palette revolving around my favorite black pieces like these jeans I recently snagged from Zara.

What's your cold-weather closet strategy?

rayban sunglasses / old navy tank / jacket from marshall's, check out nordstrom's cute version /  zara jeans / anthropologie necklace, similar from / gap bag, almost identical at target / timex watch

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Refreshed

This weekend was good for the soul. On Friday night, I headed down to Cincinnati to meet up with a few of my best friends from college. We're fortunate enough to all live in the same state still, but our time together is never long enough. 

Our weekend consisted of eating (what else is new), exploring, and lots of laughter. I always leave time with the women that know me best feeling refreshed, extremely thankful and with a renewed perspective on what is truly of worth in this world. 

I hope your weekend was just as wonderful! Now, let's tackle Monday. Yikes!

 express jacket / j.crew tee (on sale!) /  zara pants / dv by dolce vita shoes (on sale!) / j.crew factory clutch

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photos courtesy of my beautiful friend, becca.