Fall 2012 30X30: lived & learned

Woo to the hoo, I have completed my 2nd 30X30 Remix Challenge (!!!!)

(just tuning in and don't know what a 30X30 is? Check out the deets here)

I must say, my recent Fall Remix was harder than my first one ever last Spring (round up here)... but just like last time, I enjoyed getting the most out of several key pieces in my wardrobe, & finding new ways to were old items. But this time, I especially focused on adding more color to my Fall outfits (did I succeed?)

5 more things my Fall 30X30 Remix taught me:

{1} Somethings are very remixable, while others zap all my creative juices 

(HIGH remix index (at 5): plaid shirt, LOW remix index (at 2): ribbed pink sweater)

{2} I really like looking at all of the outfits in the collage I made above - each outfit has a key piece in common with the picture before & after it... 

easy way for me to see how I prefer to wear items in my closet (i.e. skirts + belts, khakis + navy)

{3} Taking 30 outfit photos in 30 days is agresssssive (last time I spaced out my 30X30 over 5ish weeks, but this time I was determined to complete it during the 30 days in the month of November) - so I might have to lay low on the outfit photos for a couple of days

{4} Nashville weather in November can be highly unpredictable - thank goodness for putting in some short sleeve shirts, my (faux) leather jacket, & light weight pants, in addition to pulling out my tights & cold weather accessories when needed.

{5} A little creativity makes my closet go the extra mile - pencil skirts as a mini, dresses as skirts, & belts always are my go to way to add spice to a mundane outfit

Phew, there it is! I hope you liked tuning in to my challenge over the past 30 days. 

Have you completed a 30X30 remix before? What were some of your lessons learned?

Do you have a favorite outfit from this round of my 30X30?

P.S. In celebration of completing my Fall 30X30 I am hosting a fabulous purse giveaway. Have you entered?

P.P.S. I am linking up with the Monday Party that has become Molly's #YOLOMondays, join the fun {here}

Day 30 ('nough said) & a giveaway

{ What I Wore: Old Navy utility vest & rockstar skinny jeans // J.Crew silk blouse // ShoeDazzle cap toe flats // Lydali chain link purse }

{ Get the Look }
silk blouse {$69.50, exact one} + utility vest {$69.00} + skinny jeans {exact pair, on sale for $19.00} + cap toe flats {$29.95, exact pair} + purse {$36.00, exact one}

In honor of today's accomplishment, I am sharing 5 awesome moments of this week

{join in on the TGIF festivities by sharing your "awesome" in the comments!}

{1.} My 30X30 is finished - halle-freaking-lujah!

{2.} Not only is this vest cute, but it works as the perfect baby slobber guard for my silk blouse

{3.} I just ordered myself bangs (eeeeeeeppp!)

{4.} I made my first GIF! If I can do it, you can too (Thanks Corinne!)

{5.} Today is a celebration not only for me but for YOU TOO! Lydali is giving away this purse to one of you lucky ladies!

And you are going to love Lydali!
Lydali is a collection of products inspired by the beauty found in remote areas across the globe 
(from Costa Rica, to Nairobi, to Indoesia!)
The ladies of Lydali, Ali and Lydia, connect customers to artisans from all over the world - 
and today they are hooking you up!

a Rafflecopter giveaway
The winner will be announced next Friday (12/07) but until then, everyone can shop Lydali, and get 10% off your order with code "HEREANDNOW" 
(watch out, I've got my eye on this)

Day 29: tone

If Wednesday was 4 color dressing, then this is my attempt at a tone on tone outfit.

And that is all I can think of to say today... is it day 30 yet?

** sorry for the blurry pictures, misplaced my remote over the Thanksgiving holiday**
{ What I Wore: J.Crew Factory skirt // H&M sweater // Steve Madden boots // Homemade snood (thanks Mom!) // eBay bubble necklace }

{ Get the Look }

burgundy sweater {$59.50} + red skirt {$24.99} + burgundy snood {$21.11} + bubble necklace {$38.00} + tights + boots

Day 28: play with pattern

{ What I Wore: Think Tank leopard blouse // J.Crew skirt // ModCloth crystal necklace // Nine West pumps }

{ Get the Look }

leopard blouse {$29.99} + wool mini skirt {$39.58} + crystal statement necklace {$21.99} + black pumps {$20.98} + patterned tights {$6.80}

At the beginning of my 30X30, my sweet friend Erin asked me if I was crazy for picking out 5 skirts to wear as my bottoms during the month of November. Maybe you thought I was coo coo for cocoa puffs too... well you didn't know about my arsenal of tights did you now!?

Even in colder weather, I can't stand to part with my skirts, so I love pulling out tights to make my skirts cold weather appropriate { see here, here, here, here to name a few instances }

Are you a skirt + tights girl too?

Day 27: primary

So apparently three-color-dressing is a thing, but what about four?

Well, who cares because dressing like a pack of crayons makes this girl smile!

{ What I Wore: J.Crew cashmere sweater, silk blouse & cropped wool trousers (all currently 30% off with code "XOFACTORY") // Kate Spade armadillo belt (turned around backwards) // ShoeMint Mona loafers }

{ Get the Look }

navy sweater {$34.99} + silk blouse {on sale for $29.99} + cropped trousers {$49.00} + gold belt {$21.00} + gold loafers {$34.99}

Day 26: country air

So maybe my 30X30 should be called "how to wear one article of clothing like another".

First it was wearing a pencil skirt like a mini, then a dress as a skirt, & today a scarf like a vest

{ What I Wore: H&M sweater & purse // Tolani scarf // boutique dress // Steve Madden boots // Guise sunnies }

{ Get the Look }

comfy chic sweater {$4.95} + cozy scarf {$44.95, perfect for making into a vest} + black jersey dress {$29.80} + tall suede boots {$69.95} + classic cat eye sunnies {$16.99}

I love going home, and I think it is funny/interesting seeing a different side of my life. 

Things that are totally normal in Nashville aren’t always the same at my family home in Arkansas (and vice versa). Not sure I am making sense, so here are some examples:

{1.} Ever since the sun started setting at 4 pm, I have been taking my outfit photos on Saturdays and Sundays – changing outfits 5 times and running outside with my tripod just seemed CA-razy at home, pretty sure my family though so too

{2.} In Nashville I typically enjoy 7 hours of blissful uninterrupted sleep, but at home I had the pleasure of sharing a room with my sister and her 2 eight-month old baby girls who do not understand the joys of sleeping through the night yet (hello 3 am screaming)

{3.} In Nashville Doug is my child, the only baby I interact with, and I spoil him accordingly. At home there are actual babies and somehow rubbing their ears doesn’t have the same calming effect that it has on Doug.

{4.} At home there are a few bars, but magically everyone from high school shows up at the same one on the same night. This year was no different, but the ridiculous shenanigans were better than ever

Do you live far from your childhood home? Notice any differences from you day-to-day life to you life at home? Don't leave me hanging, I can't be the only one!

Day 25: foxy

I never thought that a bright orange fur coat was a smart decision for a fox to be wearing out in the woods, but this weekend when I was in Arkansas for Thanksgiving, the leaves were perfectly fox colored - so when in the woods... wear orange!

{What I Wore: Gap blazer // J.Crew skirt // Everlane tee // ShoeDazzle flats }

{Get the Look}

blazer {$39.94, currently 30% off) + tee {$15.00, exact one} + floral skirt {$31.97} + orange tights {$8.00} + ShoeMint cap toe "Koko" flats {$79.98, currently 25% off)

Have you scored any Cyber Monday deals today?

If you are looking for where to start, check out my Cyber Monday round up of sales { here }

Day 24: lift & tuck

How to turn a pencil skirt into a mini skirt: lift, tuck under a sweater, and secure with a belt. 

Oh you already knew that nugget of information? 

Well how about this revelation - watch out for the back slit... you're welcome

Only 1 more week of my 30X30 Fall Challenge, and I can't believe I haven't had to put on a heavy jacket yet! Although, as I am currently running a little low on 30X30 inspiration, I might have to start wearing coats exclusively.... good life plan, huh?!

{ What I Wore: Gap sweater // J.Crew Factory skirt // Steve Madden boots // BaubleBar necklace // Target sunnies }

{ Get the Look }

polka dot sweater {$24.94, currently on 30% off sale) + skinny belt {$18.00 for a two pack, currently 30% off) + colored pencil skirt {$24.97, currently on 30% off sale) + tall black boots {$89.95, currently 30% off, code "HOLIDAYS30") + sunnies {$16.99, exact pair} + statement necklace {$32.00, love this unique stunner!}

Cyber Monday deals are already popping up, and I will have my complete deal guide going live at midnight tonight - some I think are even better than the Black Friday deals... stay tuned!

P.S. My current giveaway for a $30 store credit to Gabrielle Rose's Etsy is ending tomorrow morning. Be sure to enter { here } before it is too late!

Day 23: turkey

Remember that time I told you that layering with chambray can be tricky as it often leads to excess bulk... well, when covering turkey belly, a little extra layering is just what I needed!

Gobble, gobble, and give me seconds thirds!

{ What I Wore: J.Crew sweater & chambray shirt // Gap khakis // ShoeDazzle flats }

{ Get the look }

pink sweater {$39.99, exact one} + chambray shirt {$33.00} + khakis {$34.95, exact pair} + cap toe flats {$79.98} + collar necklace {$16.80, so cool!}

My backyard... *humble brag*

Day 22: Black Friday

Is this outfit "blog" worthy? Totally not, but I got dressed today, actually changed out of my PJs on this rare day off, 

and I want someone to know about it

Ty, Doug and I drove from Nashville, TN down to Arkansas yesterday (no traffic, yea!), and are eating a Thanksgiving meal both today and tomorrow - stretchy pants carry me home!

{ What I Wore: Everlane tee // Gap cords // Old Navy ballet flats }

 Are you Wonder Women hitting up the Black Friday sales? 

I am so not someone to get up at that hour to fend off other women for a $2 sweater... No. Thank. You.

I will be happily clicking away for Christmas present deals on Cyber Monday.

FYI: For any other Cyber Monday shoppers, I will be sharing the best deals I have found starting Sunday at midnight... be sure to check back in!

Ok, now onto the serious matter at hand, best ideas for Turkey left-overs?....Annnnd go...

P.S. I am linking up with Long Distance Loving for Friday's Fancies: Black Friday

Check out the other deal loving fashionistas { here }

Day 21: much to be thankful for

Happy Thanksgiving!
I have much to be thankful for today - I am surrounded by family, looking forward to a weekend of feasting, sharing my family traditions with Ty, and enjoying all the comforts of home.
I am also very thankful for all of you lovelies! And I hope you are having a warm holiday too!

{ What I Wore: J.Crew cashmere sweater // Urban Outfitters plaid button // Gap khakis // Old Navy ballet flats // vintage necklace }

If you are venturing out for Black Friday shopping tomorrow - good luck, and be safe!
Since I fancy myself an online shopping connoisseur, I am working on gathering up all the best of the internet's deals to share with you Sunday night in preparation for Cyber Monday - stay tuned!

Day 20: cool cat

You never know who you will run into in alley-ways - random kitties, neighbors who take their trash out 3 times in 10 minutes... yes lady, I know you are on to me, and I know there is no way you have that much trash! 

Nothing like keeping your neighbors guessing by heading to the alley with a tripod... 

{ What I Wore: J.Crew sweater, skirt, Men's belt // ShoeMint gold Mona loafers // DIY hair bow // PurplePaparazzi necklace, won in a giveaway from Design Darling }

{ Get the look }

ribbed sweater {$17.99} + floral skirt {$31.97} + chunky brown belt {$19.99} + gold loafers {$19.00} + hair bow {$7.00} + necklace { subtle // bold }

Thanksgiving is here! There is so much I love about my family getting together for the holidays, including these top 5 things:

{1} Squeezing my nieces Etta and Clair (they are sooo cute, unbiased Aunt Gigi speaking)

{2} Sleeping in my parent's new garage-converted to bunkroom, complete with bunkbeds like this

{3} Wine/board game nights with the family (our go-to is this one... so fun!)

{4} Um, how have I not managed to mention eating yet.... yes, eating is at the top of my agenda!

{5} High school reunion at the local bar... not an official event, but I know everyone will show up there Friday night

Are you getting to head home for the holiday?
What are you favorite parts!? 
Safe travels, everyone!

P.S. Looking for a little pre-Thanksgiving excitement?

Enter my giveaway for a $30 store credit to Gabrielle Rose's Etsy Shop

{ here }

Day 19: pink lady

{ What I Wore: J.Crew beanie & sweater // Zara tweed jacket // Old Navy rockstar skinny jeans // Nine West black pumps }

{ Get the look }

pink beanie {$10.00} + tweed jacket {$39.99} + pink sweater {$24.94} + skinny jeans {$34.50} + black pointed toe pumps

Things you are not surprised to see - me wearing another beanie (best solution for my current long hair unsureness), & me talking about my obsession with tweed again.

I have talked about investing in tweed, about my journey to find the perfect tweed jacket, & even heralded the tweed jacket as one of my 50 closet staples that will serve the foundation for a fully functional wardrobe. 

Why is the tweed jacket on my short list of closet necessities?

Tweed is not only a classic piece, easily dressed up and down, and versatile enough for many seasons, and outfits: 

See here these fabulous bloggers pairing their tweed with dresses, leather, denim, and flowy blouses

{ Jane // Jean // Wendy // Blair }

The tweed jacket that made all of my dreams come true, was a classic salt & pepper weave with special details like chains & spikes. To get the classic Chanel-esque look, choose a cropped black & white number with chic piping on the pockets. Or for a modern update on this ladylike piece, pick one in a pop of color, or sporting a chic moto-zipper accent

If you are tweed-jacket-less, get your tweed on & shop my favorite picks (Target is killing their tweed jacket selection right now!):

Day 18: bundle

{ What I Wore: J.Crew snood // H&M burgundy sweater // Old Navy rockstar skinny jeans & faux leather jacket // Frye boots // homemade clutch from a dear friend }

{ Get the look }

knit snood {$14.00} + knit beanie {$10.00} + sweater {$39.50 + 30% off) + faux leather jacket {$49.00 +30% off} + skinny jeans {$29.50 + 30% off) + tall boots {$79.00 + 20% off}

During warmer months, my cold-weather accessories hang out in their vacuum sealed bags (I am not playing around when it comes to moths) waiting for their turn in the spotlight. 

This weekend I finally pulled out the remainder of my Winter gear - long forgotten hats + new Bobbi Brown lippy (True Pink), were the little things that brought joy to these past chilly days

day 17: friendsgiving

{What I Wore: Gap polka dot sweater // J.Crew factory skirt // Old Navy ballet flats // Etsy hat (won in a giveaway from Seams to Be) }

{ Get the look }

polka dot sweater {$24.94} + red mini skirt {$44.95} + ballet flats {$16.00} + skinny belt {$9.97} + handmade pom-pom hat {$24.00}

Remember that time when I told you that after undergrad I moved to Nashville, TN without knowing a soul? Oh, I didn't share that detail. Well, the story until now is long, but I will just cut to the chase - best. decision. of. my. life.

Thank you to all the girlfriends that have made Nashville feel like home.

Happy "friends-giving" y'all!

Day 16: Autumn Mix & a giveaway

Good morning ladies!
I have a bunch of great stuff to share with you today, so put on your big girl panties, & let's roll

{1} Half way in to my 30X30 Challenge & I am totally cheating! This jean jacket isn't part of my 30 items, but I wanted to recreate this look. In the J.Crew lookbook it just looked so darn perfect with the classic jean jacket that I couldn't help myself! Please forgive me! (**Don't worry, I took these photos last weekend when it was 75 outside, but I would definitely have to put on some opaque tights today!)

{ What I Wore: Gap jean jacket // Urban Outfitters plaid shirt // J.Crew skirt // Old Navy ballet flats // Estarer jewelry (won in a giveaway from Always Maylee) }

{ Get the Look }

jean jacket {$28.90} + plaid shirt {$19.80}+ floral skirt {$12.80} + black ballet flats {$19.94}

{2} The newly settled in cold weather here in Nashville, is leaving me looking for a fun new cocktail to keep me warm at night, & enjoy with friends. This "new fashioned" cocktail looks to just fit the bill!

{via}

Day 14: make it a double

I'm trying TWO new things in one outfit.... stop. the. presses.

{ What I Wore: J.Crew chambray shirt & olive wool skirt // Urban Outfitters plaid shirt // ShoeDazzle cap toe flats }

{ Get the look }

chambray shirt {$26.99} + plaid shirt {$19.99} + green mini skirt {$19.99} + black belt {$9.00} + cap toe flats {$29.99}

First, I am trying to continue enjoying my long hair by actually fixing it (before the my urges to chop it off take over) - this 'do is a half up with braids thing. Took about 4 minutes, and my hands didn't fall asleep - WINNING!

Second, I am wearing not one but TWO shirts. I have oogled at every way that Blair has rocked her double button downs { here & here to show off just a few }... but never thought I could pull it off. However, my need to get creative during my 30X30 Challenge finally gave me the courage... and I can't lie, I'm hooked!

wardrobe staples: tailored blazer

Day 14 in my Fall 30X30, and I have once again turned to my closet savior - the blazer.

I have happily amassed a collection of blazers - in classics colors (white linen, black & navy), and in some fun extras (olive velvet, striped jersey), and they consistently turn my other go-to wardrobe pieces into sophisticated outfits. 

{ What I Wore: Gap blazer & khakis // J.Crew sweater // ShoeMint Mona loafers }

{ Get the look }

navy blazer {$39.99} + pink sweater {$24.94} + khakis {$24.99} + gold loafers {$29.00}

My blazers carry me through all seasons, and I have picked out my favorite looks in recent history to show you the flexibility of this classic piece.

blazer + skinny jeans // blazer + maxi dress // blazer + shorts // blazer + skirt

Scoop up this wardrobe staple in black, and then enjoy adding other colors/textures to your closet.

Still looking for the perfect blazer to fluff out your collection, shop my picks (most all under $50!)

Day 12: House Party

Good morning!
Sorry for my lack of returning emails, comments, and blog love lately - there has been some serious living getting in the way of my full blogging efforts this past week. Including a health scare for Doug the Pug last night - following his round of yearly vaccines yesterday morning, he had a major allergic reaction that caused serious swelling of his eyes, face, ears, and throat. After administering anti-histamines at home and not seeing any signs of improvement in his condition, we rushed him to our local ER/after-hours vet care facility. Their quick treatment plan meant that he was able to regain normal airways, and a reduction in swelling. As I write this, he is almost back to his cute, healthy self, but we will be closely monitoring him over the next few days. (and we believe that this is an isolated event, and not in any way a story to scare you about vaccinating your pets)

So let this be my PSA to all pet owners: Have an emergency treatment plan, including an at-home pet first aid kit, and readily available phone numbers/addresses for all possible care providers. Get information from your vet about dosages of over the counter meds that you can have on hand to treat your dog, and know what you will do before an emergency occurs.

Phew, ok... now that I got that out there...
back to the other part of living that has been getting in the way of full effort blogging - having fun with friends!

{ What I Wore: Think Tank snow leopard blouse // Old Navy Rockstar skinny jeans // Target neon belt // Nine West pumps }

{ Get the look }

leopard blouse {$55.00}  + skinny jeans {$29.50} + neon belt {$12.99} + black pumps {$29.99}

Last weekend, I had the immense pleasure to host a HouseParty for Shutterfly.