Terrific outfit

While perusing the internet, I stumbled upon a few things I loved, and think would be such a statement when worn together.  This Taken Aback pullover, by Eloise, looks relaxed and cozy.  But when I saw the back and I was smitten.  Could that be cuter?  A casual pullover is elevated to a chic sweatshirt...that is special!

At $88, the Holding Horses cropped jeans seems like a real steal.  Why do jeans now cost $200?  Somewhere in the past five years my expectations have changed and I feel like an $88 pair of jeans is a bargain.  I digress!  A good quality, nice fitting pair of cropped jeans is a wardrobe essential, particularly for spring.  

Now, you could pair this outfit with a pair of Chuck Taylors and look adorable.  But why not add something completely unexpected?  These platform wedges by Dolce Vita are just plain awesome.  I am in love!  Paired with the cropped jeans and almost any top, you would look over-the-top chic.  Just GO FOR IT!

Taken Aback pullover, $78, anthropologie.com

Taken Aback / back view!, anthropologie.com

Holding Horses cropped jeans, $88, anthropologie.com

Dolce Vita Jade shoe, $179.95, nordstrom.com

Bottoms up

Shorts can, at times, be super boring.  Don't we all have a closet full of khaki shorts?  Please don't get me wrong, I love my Jcrew chino shorts, but I usually let my tops do the talking.  These shorts from (where else?) Anthropologie are anything but boring, and make a statement all on their own.

Tribal prints are huge for spring/summer and the two patterns of "Karisimbi shorts" perfectly embody that trend.  They are five inches long...not too short, not too long for most legs!  Paired with a grey, white or black t-shirt, these shorts would elevate any old day at the zoo!

The "Compass Point" shorts capture that nautical vibe which is ALWAYS in style.  I love white shorts, but the cute buttons really sold me...and what doesn't go with white???

Karisimbi shorts, $78, anthropologie.com 

Karisimbi shorts, $78, anthropologie.com

Compass point shorts, $78, anthropologie.com

Don't skirt the issue!

One of my favorite things about warm weather?  Skirts.  They are just as easy to thrown on as shorts, and are perfect when you want to catch a breeze!  Skirts can be casual or dressy, depending on your mood.

If money were no object, I would buy the "Tribal Stained Glass" skirt at anthropologie.  At $328 it is too pricey for me to buy, but I am going to keep any eye on this one...I am predicting it will go on sale!  The colors and pattern are perfection.  I think pairing it with a black tank top, long necklace and black wedges would be stunning.

The "Go Anywhere" skirt reminds me of my friend Stacey.  She loves easy, jersey skirts and looks great in royal blue.  That's a smart match!  Since she sends me money to buy clothes for her, this is one is going in the shopping cart.

I think hot pink is a happy, perky color.  Bright colors are huge for spring and summer, and this "Drawing Parallels" skirt fits the bill.  Since it is slightly voluminous, it would look best with a fitted top, tucked-in tight.  Pair it with metallic flat sandals!

Since I am on a big Anthropologie kick, you know where you can find these!

Tribal Stained Glass skirt, $328, anthropologie.com

Go Anywhere skirt, $78, anthropologie.com

Drawing Parallels skirt, $68, anthropologie.com

Dress up your spring!

I have given up shopping for lent, but that doesn't mean I can't look for fashionable finds for you, correct?  Well, I have been looking at Anthropologie lately and right now they are ON FIRE with amazingly cute clothing.

Every woman needs a nice spring/summer dress.  You never know when you will need one, and now is the time to look.  Don't wait until you absolutely need a dress to shop for one.  Doing so usually results in a dress you only half like, and is only half flattering on you.  It is better to spend $200 on a dress you LOVE and will wear every chance you get, than spend $75 on a so-so dress you'll only wear once.  That's called "cost-per-wear" math!

Here are my favorite dresses from Anthro, and a beautiful accessory that I just HAD to include.  The Isabel Faux Wrap dress is made of jersey, therefore it is super comfortable and will pack well.  You can throw a jean jacket over it for a casual look, or a cardigan and heels for a dressier look.  This dress is extremely versatile and a great price.

The Kingston Road dress is just fun with its' stripes and candy colors.  It makes me smile!  Wear it with wedges and you are good to go!

The Panther's Play dress is pricey, but wow what a dress!  If you look good in strapless dresses, consider trying this one on.  Animals prints are always in style when done correctly.  This dress has a subtle animal print, mixed with yellows and soft pink.  It is sublime, and the fact that it is made by Leifsdottir, one of my favorite designers, is just icing on the cake!

The On the Rocks bracelet is just GORGEOUS.  Every woman needs one statement piece in their jewelry collection and this bracelet will enhance and elevate any dress.  Hey, mother's day is coming!  Hint, hint to your man!!!

Isabel faux wrap dress, $128, anthropologie.com

Kingston Road dress, $228, anthropologie.com

Panther's Play dress by Leifsdottir, $348, anthropologie.com

On the Rocks bangle, $168, anthropologie.com

Yippee! New Fit Flops!

As I have mentioned before, I am a Fit Flop JUNKIE, a veritable "flop-aholic"!  I just love these shoes and could sing their praises all day long. They feel like nothing I've ever put on my feet...even more comfortable than walking barefoot.  I like them so much,  I use them as my house shoes.  The fact that they have toning properties...well, so much the better!

The founder of Bliss Spas actually introduced the Fit Flop and so when new styles are released, you will find them at www.blissworld.com first.  I adore a buckle, and so I have my eyes on the new Hooper Fit Flop in Buff ($79).  Perfectly neutral!  If a bit of "bling" is your thing, the new Rokkit Fit Flop ($99) is the one for you.  I like the Bronze Dore color.

I think this new Earth "Earthies Bonaire" ($139) shoe is ADORABLE in grey!  Although I have not worn this brand, I hear it is a brand that makes very comfortable shoes.  That it is fashionable is an extra bonus.  All shoes available at blissworld.com.  Enter code MARCH20 by 4/30/11 and receive $20 off your order of $100 or more.

Summer clothes for your man

My husband said I should include a few finds for guys on my blog.  Drawing inspiration from Brian, I selected a few things from Patagonia.  Guys can relate to this outdoorsy store.  Brian loves Patagonia board shorts for summer swimming.  They have the fun, colorful prints and hold up well in chlorine.  Why not surprise your man with a stylin' pair of swim trunks!  If swim trunks aren't "the thing" for your guy, check out the durable and fashionable "All - Wear Cargo Shorts" and pair it with the "Squeaky Clean Polo".  Aren't you so sweet to think of him?!?

Wavefarer board shorts $59 - $65, patagonia.com

Wavefarer board shorts, $59 - $65, patagonia.com

Squeaky Clean Polo, $49 patagonia.com

All Wear Cargo Shorts, $69, patagonia.com