Girl Crush: Rachel Roy

Have you met Rachel Roy?

I must admit, two months ago, I had no idea who she was. That is, until I stumbled upon a few of her beautiful dresses while wasting time at Macy's... I tried some on, drooled, took pictures and sent to my friends and Boyfriend for their approval, all of whom told me they loved the dress but reminded me that I'm trying to save money... so, I have yet to purchase one butttttt I don't plan on being able to say that much longer.

In fact, you might remember this little temptation of mine:


Burlesque Dress - $129.00

Basically, since I "met" her, designer Rachel Roy has been the one that got away. It's as if she took me out, we had a great night and then she never called me back... that elusive departure from my life has locked me in a full-blown obsession. I wonder who she is, what her Spring collection is like and who in God's name does she style?

This online stalking isn't helping to curb the obsession either. Her designs are trendy, fun, youthful, artful, demure and sexy and I pretty much want all of them...especially because they're the perfect price range of a little more expensive so you know it's good stuff but not so exorbitant that you are selling eggs to buy a dress.

I mean, how about these apples? Especially with the special scenarios I envision as I look at them (you're welcome)!

Porcupine Ring
Because I like my rings like I like my boyfriends: cute and protective.

$48.00

Kimi Sparkle Pump
Because the heel takes Dorothy to a whole new level (seriously, click the link and check the heel)

$99.00

V-Neck Oversized Dress
Because, sometimes nothing is sexier than looking like you spent last night with a boy and didn't get much sleep and you really can't be bothered to put on much to grab your coffee the next day at the cafe around the corner from his place (besides, this feeds into my American Apparel fetish quite well).

$89.00

Slick Trench
Because Nancy Drew's look is darling but in dire need of an update.

$159.00

Gold Spike Ring
Because it is a dash of bad ass for your finger.

$36.00

Low Draped Top
Because the color and style makes me swoon, as does the model's bun.

$41.40

The Michelle Dress
Because often sexiness is a dish best served conservatively.

$109.00

The Rucksack Trouser
Because Women do Menswear better than the Men.

$99.00

So I could go on and on and on...in a nutshell- she's definitely worth a look and I can't wait to sport whatever piece I choose, I'll be sure to show it off on here.

Here's how to find her:

Twitter.
Facebook.
Website. (easily shoppable)
Macy's.

Thank you Rachel Roy online for the images. All products are linked in product title.


What type of art do you online stalk- Fashion, Home Decor, Photography?? Name your poison!

my true love gave to me...

On the first day of Christmas, my true love sent to me A partridge in a pear tree..... my true love sent to me, long-term best friends whom I can always laugh with.

{Top: Megan, Me Bottom: Me, Megan, Tracy. Girls' Annual XMas Party}

On the second day of Christmas, my true love sent to me Two turtle doves, And a partridge in a pear tree. ... my true love sent to me, delectable drinks to toast the holiday season.

{Christmas Eve & Expensive Champagne? Must be at the Parents'}

On the third day of Christmas, my true love sent to me Three French hens, Two turtle doves, And a partridge in a pear tree. ... my true love sent to me, the best friends a girl could have: all different, all funny, all with their own zeal for style, all whom I adore for different reasons.

{My Forever Girls in our Annual Christmas Party. 12.18.2010}

On the fourth day of Christmas, my true love sent to me Four calling birds, Three French hens, Two turtle doves, And a partridge in a pear tree. ... a Brother to share in the Holiday joy, even though we were without a Sister for the first time ever (see below).

On the fifth day of Christmas, my true love sent to me Five golden rings, Four calling birds, Three French hens, Two turtle doves, And a partridge in a pear tree. ... a family dog who never ceases to make me crack up.

{Christmas Day with Maddie}

On the sixth day of Christmas, my true love sent to me Six geese a-laying, Five golden rings, Four calling birds, Three French hens, Two turtle doves, And a partridge in a pear tree. ... weird, fun holiday garb to sport for no reason at all.

On the seventh day of Christmas, my true love sent to me Seven swans a-swimming, Six geese a-laying, Five golden rings, Four calling birds, Three French hens, Two turtle doves, And a partridge in a pear tree. ... more presents than I deserve and plenty of opportunity to witness the joy of giving.

On the eighth day of Christmas, my true love sent to me Eight maids a-milking, Seven swans a-swimming, Six geese a-laying, Five golden rings, Four calling birds, Three French hens, Two turtle doves, And a partridge in a pear tree. ... my true love sent to me, SLIPPERS to wear with the cocktail dresses at the end of the night, natch.

On the ninth day of Christmas, my true love sent to me Nine ladies dancing, Eight maids a-milking, Seven swans a-swimming, Six geese a-laying, Five golden rings, Four calling birds, Three French hens, Two turtle doves, And a partridge in a pear tree. ... peaceful views at the Parents' home, always a great holiday treat.

On the tenth day of Christmas, my true love sent to me Ten lords a-leaping, Nine ladies dancing, Eight maids a-milking, Seven swans a-swimming, Six geese a-laying, Five golden rings, Four calling birds, Three French hens, Two turtle doves, And a partridge in a pear tree. ... my true love sent to me, disgusting, white-elephant gifts which begin new traditions. See: Green Bear in hand.

On the eleventh day of Christmas, my true love sent to me Eleven pipers piping, Ten lords a-leaping, Nine ladies dancing, Eight maids a-milking, Seven swans a-swimming, Six geese a-laying, Five golden rings, Four calling birds, Three French hens, Two turtle doves, And a partridge in a pear tree. ... my true love sent to me, a new brother-in-law who bittersweetly whisked my Sister off to England for their first Christmas as a betrothed couple. We surely missed her but I know she's in good hands enjoying his English traditions.

{Miss you both!}

On the twelfth day of Christmas, my true love sent to me Twelve drummers drumming, Eleven pipers piping, Ten lords a-leaping, Nine ladies dancing, Eight maids a-milking, Seven swans a-swimming, Six geese a-laying, Five golden rings, Four calling birds, Three French hens, Two turtle doves, And a partridge in a pear tree..... a family who held it together on a different Holiday- we didn't have my Sister and so we spiced up everything. No Christmas dinner at home... off to Benihana we go. And y'know what? It was a blast. Fa-Ra-Ra-Ra-Ra-Ra-Ra-Ra-Ra!

{my face looks huge here, bah-humbug!}


{The heavenly aroma still hung in the house. But it was gone, all gone! No turkey! No turkey sandwiches! No turkey salad! No turkey gravy! Turkey Hash! Turkey a la King! Or gallons of turkey soup! Gone, ALL GONE! }

That was a glimpse of MY Christmas. I hope yours was just as wonderful!!!

The Tortoise & The Girl.

When I was seven years old, I ran out to the tree on Christmas morning to find a Tortoise in an aquarium for me. We already had two cats with my parents promising me we wouldn't expand for awhile so the Tortoise came as a complete shock.


I remember the moment after I saw it, I turned to my 9-year-old Sister to see if she would get any stake in this gift. She didn't like reptiles in anyway but I did, I loved all things that crawled, all animals I could find and all pets that I could hold. However, we were 2-years-apart and always endured similar gifts or sharing gifts so I figured part of this must belong to her as well, to get a Tortoise all to myself was just too good.

"Sweetie, that's yours," Mom said.
"Just for me?"
"Just for you."

I've had many Christmas gifts in my life but without a doubt, the gift of my own Tortoise stands out as the best Christmas gift I've ever gotten. Santa seemed to take into account the sheer joy I would get from having my very own pet and I appreciated that Santa disregarded his reservations about bringing another living animal into the home... not to mention, it felt so special to know that Santa knew me SO well to give me such a gift.

I had Pinkie (as I called him) for 6 years after that and forever am grateful for my experience with the little guy: he was just mine.

It also left me with an indelible fondness for kitschy Turtle items:


Anthropologie Tortoise Placeholders


Turtle slippers


Tortoise Lamps (I love these, I have 2)


Urban Outfitters Tortoise pendents


Tortoise Ring

The gift of the Tortoise went along with all of the good that comes from giving.
I hope all of you today get a chance to feel that special or share that joy with someone else.

Merry, Merry Christmas!

What was the best present you've ever received?
ps- Shanin, your parents' living room Tortoise is by far my favorite kitschy item and will forever be!

The Anatomy of a Working Work Outfit

I love a denim and a cheap deal as much as the next girl... but, very often, spending the money on the expensive items really does come back in your favor. I felt like that today at work as I realized that everything I was wearing was high-quality (no snobbery here, I have tons of discount duds, I just wasn't wearing many today) and magically, didn't require any nipping, tucking, prodding, duct-taping or poking all day long.

So what's the anatomy of an effortless outfit for a long period of time? That's code for: what can I wear to work that allows me to spend all my time focusing on my job and not the fact that my jeans have grown 2 sizes over 4 hours (jeans that stretch like that = one of my biggest pet peeves by the way. I hate when I look down and my tight jeans from 7am are now doing a poor-man's version of the boyfriend look- hello saggy butt and lowered crotch. Ugh!).

The outfit I wore today doesn't scream AMAZINGNESS but it covers all of the bases...

The Anatomy of a Good Work Outfit:

1. The Color Palette: When in doubt- black, navy and gray are the best colors to wear: professional, simple and elegant.

2. The Makeup: Use a navy eyeliner for all-day emphasis like the Powerpoint Eye Pencil in Prussian by MAC.

3. The Belt | The Dress: My dress shown here is from Banana Republic (link shows similar item, not exact) in Fall 2008. It's a blend of wool, cashmere and viscose. It truly is the warmest, most comfortable dress to wear. The belt shown here didn't come with as the dress has a wrap in the same sweatery material of the dress- so it has been subbed for a Forever 21 belt- my one cheapo of the day. Moral of the story- expensive fabric = all-day, problem free wear. And a working belt? The icing on this fitting cake.

4. Go Sleeveless: yeah it's December, but offices get hot. Bring a wrap but know you have the option to undress your shoulders in the privacy of your own cubicle if need be.

5. The Shoes: I love heels so I can't tell you to trade them off. But I will tell you, get ones that are comfortable. This Nine West pair truly slides on like BUUTTTAHHH. Crucial.

6. Tights | Slip: My invaluable silent partners- I wear slips and tights almost every single day. The Slip is what is the difference between picking a wedgie all day or letting your dress effortlessly graze down your backside. If I were the President, you could say the slip is my Secret Service- it is always working on my behalf- especially because the right amount of light can expose more than you hope for- wear a slip! And Tights- the only possible way for me to wear dresses in the winter is because I can rely on the warmth from tights. Both tights and slip are Calvin Klein.

7. The Length: my sweater dress was short enough for my taste and long enough for the office. I couldn't ask for more.

8. Wear a Smile: I'm happy to be so comfortable.

9. Freedom of the Arms: Ever worn a dress that restricted your arm movement? Horrid. Let them rise and fall as they choose.

10. The End Pieces: The reason I said to wear sleeveless was because I always will have a cover-up with me. My Michael Stars cardigan does the trick perfectly. And the Duck Umbrella (Go Ducks!) is my way to stay dry as I make my way in and out of the office (plus, it's so cute).

Outfit of the year? No. But it's definitely has the components for the type of outfit that I could wear every day of the year. I'm a discount-shopping, love a good bargain, trendy shopper... but sometimes you can't deny the quality of the expensive materials that are sometimes worth the splurge.

What do you wear that requires no effort (hint: Snuggies don't count!)?

Last minute shopping, last minute deals!

Jingle Bells!

{best friends but I bet all of her shopping is done.}

Well, I've been busting my a** to complete all of my Holiday shopping because that's what us procrastinators do. Yup, here we are... Tuesday before Christmas and I basically have completed my shopping for one person. I am so lame. This evening was a barrage of lines and b*tchy pregnant ladies (nothing against you Preggos, but I was literally slammed in the back by 4 separate pregnant women at Nordstrom Rack tonight. I will gladly be a makeshift baby daddy if you kindly remove the cart from my back) as we all last-minute sought out the perfect gift for that person we didn't think to shop for until tonight.

I do have one savior though, online shopping and last minute deals.
Now, if you've read my blog in the past, you would know that I have never done a promotional blog on my page. I say no to those emails and yada-yada. But guess what? There's an awesome contest going on that I was alerted to by a real-life friend and so I wanted to pass it on to all you last-minute shoppers (or bored lady friends o'mine) for some Holiday fun and because winning something on eBay basically means you have won whatever your pretty little heart desires♥


There’s an easy and budget friendly way to shop this season with Bill Me Later and eBay. Plus a way to win a $1,000 shopping spree!

Here’s how Bill Me Later and eBay are teaming together to “save” the holidays:

· Save the world: From now until December 24, eBay and Bill Me Later are running a Holiday Tweet Away on @ShopBillMeLater where you can win a $1,000 eBay shopping spree for you and a $1,000 donation for the eBay Giving Works charity of your choice! Anyone that enters will automatically be entered to win our weekly $50 eBay gift card as well!

· Save time: Get your item now without worrying about payments for the next six months

· Save money: Bill Me Later is giving you six months to pay off all purchases in December without any interest if paid in full, and $10 back on your first purchase. Plus, you will be saving money by finding your gifts on eBay

· Save paper: Your bill shows up in one place, and you pay it once without having to worry about paper and postage

· Save the holidays: With Bill Me Later you can keep your purchases off your credit card statement so you can keep your holiday gifts a secret from loved-ones

I think that's pretty d*mn sawwwweeet, and no- I don't get anything from this listing- just good, ol'fashion, pass-along the savings. Thank you Hannah for alerting me to this!

And with that, I am taking my Ho-ish self to bed because I've been having to start my day at 5 am this week, eeps!

Did you get all of your shopping done???

Dye Hair, Save the Sprit.

So last week was my second highlight treatment since I went oh so dark Fall of 2009 and stayed oh so dark. Up until now, I have spent all of 2010 a brunette and even spent the last few months with black hair. And now... I am so excited to be heading back to the blonde side of town.

I did my hair math (the only kind of math I like) and believe that I will look like a good-ol' fashion blonde by February instead of a brunette with blonde highlights as I look like now. I want that golden, fake tone soon but because I enjoy non-organic, chemical hair dye (lasts longer) that my hairdresser has, I do it in smaller doses so my hair doesn't die. However, I'm supa-supa ready to head into 2011 leaving the dark hair behind. Don't get me wrong, dark hair has always done me right... I'm just over it for about a year. Really over it.


{ch-ch-ch-ch-ch-annnngesss}

The other night at my girls' xmas party we all gave toasts. Mine in part included my gratefulness for hair dye. My friends instantly laughed about the seemingly trivial addition to my toast but I stand by it (so shut up you beezies). It's a simple joy in my life much like a morning coffee or a good book.

So I'm becoming less of a Veronica and becoming more of a Betty and I just can't wait for that- though sorry Betty, I'll still be sticking with heels in lieu of sneakers.

What is your favorite hair color on you?

Unflattering Picture Sunday

What's up: Here I am, the dayafter a night out where I couldn't be bothered to take off my falsies as I lay on the floor in disgusting sweats and let the dog eat my face.

one shallow hemline please w/ a side of sweater

Soooo... I think I'm over deep posts for a bit. I love poetry and writing lengthy posts to my brother but I would like to take a step back from that and make my blog a bit shallower again.

And speaking of Shallow... the short skirt is such a delight in my life. I don't know why it's so great but there's something about a miniskirt that makes me feel youthful yet sophisticated, sexy yet dignified and trendy yet classic. They're just so fun. I rue the day where I am unable to wear them (either due to weight or age) BUT today is not that day and thus the miniskirt will still be the little hug around my tush that reminds me that I'm still the person I like being.

I wear minskirts year-round, that goes without saying. In summer, they're a must have and often paired with t-shirts, tops (both of the tube & tank variety) and blouses. It's often a lot of skin but hell, I'm young and under the sun's rays, it ain't that bad. But one of the nice parts about winter is that you can do the mini with long-sleeves, thus lessening the amount of skin exposure goin' on. I believe that winter is when the miniskirt shines because girls just simply can't look anything but utterly sensational in a miniskirt, pantyhose and a long sleeve top.

Such was my thought process last night when I hung out for my brother's birthday party. It was freezing and slightly snowing outside and so I wanted to stay warm but still look like I put some thought into the fact that this was a party. I thought my summer purple skirt paired with my Urban Outfitters sweater and black pantyhose crossed all my "t"'s.

Skirt: thrifted at Buffalo Exchange Sweater: Urban Outfitters. God I suck at blog modeling.

See what I mean? I just dog gone love the look... especially when I see similar styles on these saucy ladies.

{Lauren here}

{Victoria here}

{Ashley here}

{Rihanna here}

and with that, I'm scootin' off to my annual Girls' XMas Party with my high school best friends. We do the whole shebang: dinner, wine, cheese, sweets, tea, games, etc. So fun!

Happy Saturday!