My friend Britt sent me this message {on behalf of our friend Christa} via Facebook yesterday:

Mary.  Christa has been looking for a denim pencil skirt for a while now, with no luck.  One that not only looks cute and stylish, actually is a pencil skirt, but is also long enough.  I thought maybe you could be able to save her ;) Not only is your blog awesome, but you and Christa both have the same amazing long legs, and a keen fashion sense.  So by any chance have you come across the perfect denim skirt recently?

The perfect denim skirt?  That's a pretty tall order, but I've done my best to compile a collection of skirts, in a variety of price ranges, that I think are adorable:


1.  Tailored denim pencil skirt, $69.50, J. Crew {link}
2.  Denim skirt, on sale $39.50, Victoria's Secret {link}
3.  Scalloped Sailor Skirt, $88, Anthropologie {link}
4.  Denim Skirt, $42.50, Shade {link}
5.  Denim Pencil Skirt, on sale $28.99, Old Navy {link}
6.  Merona Refined Denim Skirt, $24.99, Target {link}
7.  Merona Denim Skirt, $19.99, Target {link}
8.  Lauren by Ralph Lauren Stretch Denim Pencil, $59.50, Macy's {link}
9.  Chelsfield Stretch Denim Skirt, on sale $49.99, Ralph Lauren {link}

Still not what she's looking for?  Here are a few more links to try: 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8.

I can completely understand if Christa is frustrated trying to find a skirt that's long enough for her.  I have the same problem all the time.  Even sites that specialize in modest clothing don't always provide skirts that hit my knees.  My best advice is to find a good skirt that fits well and has a good seam allowance at the hem, so that even if it's not long enough, a tailor can let it down.  {Tailors can also sew up slits to make a skirt more modest.}  If you're shopping online and the item description doesn't have all the information you need to make a good decision, e-mail the store's customer service department; they should be able to tell you anything you need to know.

Britt, I hope this helps!  I was lucky enough to receive my own denim pencil skirt as a hand-me-down from my sister; I actually dreamed last night that I went into my closet and I had two identical skirts, one for me to keep and one to give to Christa. :)

Back in August, I said that there are two times during the year that I go shop-crazy: fall and spring.  Something about the changing seasons feeds my already intense desire for new clothes.  After reading this post from Uber-Chic for Cheap, I starting thinking about the gaps in my wardrobe and items I would love to have for spring.  Here's my shopping list:


1.  Printed Ruffle Sleeve Blouse, $47.86, Asos {link}
2.  Classic-stripe tissue tee, $32.50, J. Crew {link}
3.  Full Bouquet Clip, $18, Anthropologie {link}
4.  Corso Como "Festive" Ballet Flats, $59.99, Bloomingdale's {link}
5.  Scoop Basic Tee, $24.50, The Limited {link}
6.  Leather Zip Around Crossbody Bag, $59.95, DSW {link}
7.  Nostalgia Nail Lacquer, $2.80, Forever 21 {link}
8.  Neon necklace, $28, J. Crew {link}
9.  BC Oh Sailor Sandal, $49.50, Delia's {link}
10.  Bubble bow skirt, on sale $122, The Outnet.com {link}
11.  Faded dark flared leg jeans, on sale $39.99, Gap {link}
12.  Floral Printed Full Skirt, $58, Urban Outfitters {link}
13.  Featherweight cotton long cardigan, $69.50, J. Crew {link}

I went with gray and silver neutrals, with pops of bright coral and yellow, which is my chosen color palette for spring.  Most of these items {with the exception of the Neon Necklace from J. Crew, because I haven't been able to find anything else like it} stand more for ideas of what I would like to have.  For example, I'm not really going to spend over $100 on a tweed skirt, because I found one at a consignment shop last week for $10 and I love it.  {Like, I really love it; it's totally adorable.}  Similarly, I purchased a new pair of Gap jeans on that same shopping trip for $8, and I'll probably pick up a new white t-shirt at Ross the next time I go instead of buying this one from The Limited for $24.50.

Do you have a favorite item?  Are you thinking of filling some gaps in your own wardrobe?  What would you love to own this season?  Leave a comment!

Have you ever been browsing through a collection of clothing, either online or in-store, and you saw something so gorgeous you literally felt your jaw drop?  Have you ever felt so shocked by your emotional reaction to a piece of clothing that you gasped out loud?  I have.  {I've even created a blog on which to post these items, so I wouldn't empty my bank account in order to possess them.}  It's not often that I have this reaction -- more likely I'll do a double-take, or just gaze longingly at something for a prolonged period of time.

This Anthropologie dress, however, got both the jaw-drop and the audible gasp.  It's just so gorgeous.  {I don't think I've mentioned it on this blog before, but red poppies are absolutely my favorite flower.  Stick them on anything and I'm guaranteed to love it.}  I created an outfit around it, just for fun:


1.  Homegrown Dress, $158, Anthropologie {link}
2.  Featherweight cotton long cardigan, $69.50, J. Crew {link}
3.  Braided Claudette necklace, $16, Fred Flare {link}
4.  Colin Stuart T-strap wedge, $29, Victoria's Secret {link}
5.  Fossil Latigo C-Buckle Belt, $28, Dillard's {link}

I think a boyfriend cardigan, with the sleeves scrunched up to the elbows, would look great with this dress.  Add in the shoes, though, and it becomes a little too Grandma's garden party.  I added an edgy necklace and menswear belt {which I would wear over the cardigan} to make it feel more modern.

What do you think?  Am I crazy for my intense reactions to clothing?  Are you a little afraid of me now?  What about the dress?  Breath-taking, isn't it?  And do you have any thoughts about the outfit -- is it something you would wear for spring?

My friend Teri sent me this e-mail today:

Oh wise one!  I need help!  :)  My sister-in-law is getting married in May and has asked me to be a bridesmaid.  We're buying our own dresses and I need some help!  The dress needs to be black with some white (more black than white) and modest.  Since it's an outdoor wedding, I'd like it to be made from a lightweight material, knee length and have a short sleeve.  Please guide me!  Ideally, I don't want to spend a whole lot on the dress and shoes (think 250 or less for the dress, shoes and accessories).  I'm mostly worried about being too hot as it will most likely be an all day thing outside and I'll be doing a lot of the work. I think a happy medium between formal and casual would be ideal.  Thanks!

-Teri

Here's what I came up with:


1.  Swirling Villages Dress, on sale $49.95, Anthropologie {link}
2.  Stretch Rose Buckle Belt, $8.99, Charlotte Russe {link}
3.  Helium Petals Necklace, on sale $39.95, Anthropologie {link}
4.  Rosette Purse, $48, Harmony Lane {link}
5.  BDG Suede Pumps, $48, Urban Outfitters {link}

total:  $194.89

I love this black and white dress from Anthropologie; it's modest, cute, practical for a summer wedding, and effortlessly re-wearable.  I exchanged the removable multicolored belt it comes with for a black one, and paired it with neutrals so Teri will fit right in with the rest of the bridal party.  Mixed metallics in the necklace and a gray shoe keep the outfit light, fun, and summery.  The different flower motifs give it a sense of whimsy.  I also threw in a bright clutch to add a pop of color to her outfit without ruining the bride's color scheme.

What do you think?  Do you think I struck the right note?  Do you love that dress as much as I do?  Leave a comment!


Don't forget to enter my giveaway for your chance to win $40 in gift cards to eShakti!

I got an e-mail this morning about how Banana Republic is in love with coral right now:



I was instantly smitten.  I checked out the stuff they had at BR, and frankly, was not impressed.  I decided to throw together my own collected of tantalizingly coral pieces.  Coral is such a springy color, and I love to see how different brands interpret it -- orangey salmons, rosy pinks, and everything in between:



1.  Embroidered Linen-Blend Top, $24.50, Old Navy {link}
2.  Elegant Spread Cropped Cardigan, $17.80, Forever 21 {link}
3.  Robert Rose Hinged Enamel Bracelet, $20, Lord & Taylor {link}
4.  Filigree Flower Earrings, $4, Charlotte Russe {link}
5.  Dotted Woven Top, $17.80, Forever 21 {link}
6.  Canvas Pump, $48, Urban Outfitters {link}
7.  Essie Nail Polish, $8, J. Crew {link}
8.  Asymmetrical Ruffle Tee, $32.50, J. Crew {link}
9.  Here & There Dress, on sale $79.95, Anthropologie {link}
10.  Solid Embossed Beach Dress, $98, J. Crew {link}
11.  Coloured Super Skinny Waist Belt, $8.55, Asos {link}
12.  Lucy Bow Detail Ballerina, $25.64, Asos {link}
13.  Origami Applique Cardigan, $26.50, Old Navy {link}
14.  Windswept Floral Skinny Scarf, $29.50, Loft {link}
15.  Basket Plaid Scarf, $29.50, Loft {link}
16.  Poppie Jones Selma Satchel, $34.95, DSW {link}

I do agree with BR about the idea of pairing coral with neutrals, and especially lighter neutrals like sand and gray.  Navy would also be great with coral, I think.  What do you think?  Are you all over the idea of coral for spring?  Which item is your favorite {and what would you wear with it}?


Don't forget to enter my giveaway for your chance to win $40 in gift cards to eShakti!

First of all, I want to apologize for my unannounced and impromptu blogging hiatus.  I have been sick.  Not major, you-need-to-be-worried-about-me sick, just normal I-have-a-cold-so-I'm-going-to-watch-TV-all-day sick.  I'm not entirely over it, but I'm tired of feeling pathetic and helpless, so I've decided that I'm resuming life as usual today.

Second, this is my second look for less!  And can I just say, looks for less are hard.  After reading Über-Chic for Cheap for a few months, I was surprised; Madeline always makes it look so easy.  But enough of my whining.  On to the look for less!

{links: Field Game Cardigan at Anthropologie, Parfait Stripe Lace Cardigan at Nordstrom, Nantucket Stripe Lace Cardigan at Bloomingdale's}

I first found the Parfait Stripe Lace Cardigan at Nordstrom and loved it.  {Anyone remember this Tweet?}  Then, while metaphorically strolling through the Anthropologie website, I found the Field Game Cardigan.  And I thought, "If this is such a popular look, maybe I can find it for less."  I did some searching, and this is what I found:


{links: Lavender Butterflies Lace Cardigan at Ruche, Frills to Pay the Bills Cardigan at ModCloth, Lush Lace Trim Cardigan at Nordstrom}

Cute v-neck cardigan?  Check.  Lace trim in a contrasting color?  Check.  Bold nautical stripes and brass button detail?  Well... actually, no.  Which is somewhat disappointing.  {I also dislike the lace trim on the pockets -- it looks a little mustachey to me.}

What do you think?  Do you like the less expensive cardigans?  Do you think they capture the feeling of the more expensive ones?  Would you buy one of the looks for less, or would you wait for one of the originals to go on sale?  Let me know -- leave a comment!

Ever since the very beginning of 2010, I've been trying to hold myself back from thinking about spring.  I know in my mind that I still have the long, cold months of January, February and March to get through before the blessed warmth of April.  My head knows it's not time for spring yet, by my heart keeps getting excited.  "Flowers!" it yells.  "Shorts!  Picnics!"  "Hush," I say.  "It's supposed to snow tomorrow night.  You're bumming me out."

But then while browsing online today... I think I was looking at bauble necklaces {I like this one, this one, and this one}... I came across a necklace that wasn't what I was looking for, and actually it wasn't very pretty, but it was the most gorgeous shade of yellow.  Yellow is one of my favorite spring colors, and immediately, I began to crave yellow.  All kinds of things in all shades of yellow.  And so, here is my wishlist of yellow things: my schizophrenic, head-fighting-heart, winter meets spring {seriously, leather gloves and sunglasses together?} wishlist of yellow things:


1.  Destined Nail Color, $2.99, Tilly's {link}
2.  Opacity Posts, $24, Anthropologie {link}
3.  French Connection Aviators, $48, Nordstrom {link}
4.  Silk tiered cami, on sale $29.99, J. Crew {link}
5.  Classic Leather Gloves, $39.95, Martin + Osa {link}
6.  In-A-Moment Dress, $118, Anthropologie {link}
7.  Lei Trim Tee, $36.50, Loft {link}

That dress from Anthropologie, the only item on my list over $50, is nonetheless still my favorite.  {Although if I were ever lucky enough to own it, I would probably wear it with this to make sure my legs were covered down to my knees.}  What do you think?  Do you have a favorite yellow item {either from my list or from elsewhere}?  Are you craving spring already, or are you still enjoying winter?

My very first look for less!  I'm so excited!  I'm also excited about bib necklaces.  I've never been one for layering on accessories -- I prefer one unfussy statement piece, and bib necklaces are just what I've been looking for.  {Although does anyone else think that the name "bib necklace" is a little silly?  I mean, I know where it comes from, but that doesn't mean I don't feel a little weird whenever I say it...}


Blu Bijoux Crystal Encrusted Ribbon Bib Necklace, Max & Chloe, $118 {link}
Flower Gemstone Bib Necklace, Fred Flare, on sale $17.99 {link}


Hanging Bellflower Bib Necklace, $138, Anthropologie {link}
Vintage Lace Bib Necklace, $22, erinkeys @ Etsy {link}

As stated in this post, I'm going back through some of my recent posts and putting outfits together around certain items. {And as stated in this post, I have nothing better to do right now than post on my blog and wait until my husband comes home.} This outfit was created around the skirt from this post, in which I drooled over the new arrivals at Anthropologie.

Here's what I came up with:


1. Lacemaker Skirt, $148, Anthropologie (link)
2. Boat Neck Top with Charmeuse Bow, $21.90*, Loft (link)
3. Herringbone Tweed Jacket, $38.99, Charlotte Russe (link)
4. Lacquered Flower Jewelry Set, $4.80, Forever 21 (link)
5. MIA Michelle T-Strap Mary Jane, $32.97 (link)
6. Yellow Heart Wallet, $25, Harmony Lane (link)

total: $271.66
{Or $123.66 without the skirt, which is gorgeous, but way too pricey for my budget.}

The Charlotte Russe website describes the jacket as being a black and gray tweed, but it looks navy to me, which is why I put it in an outfit with a navy shoe. I love navy and yellow together -- the combination is so crisp, so clean, so refreshingly sunny and nautical. And don't you just love the bright egg-yolk color of that clutch?? Let me know what you think!


*Today {Saturday, December 19} only, Loft is offering 40% off all regularly priced styles with coupon code PRESENTS.

I was looking over the new arrivals at Anthropologie this morning...

{...as a sidenote, why was I looking at the new arrivals at Anthropologie this morning? To torture myself? Usually I confine myself to the humble sale section, knowing that anything I could even hope to buy will be there. Today, however, I slipped up, and am now paying dearly for my mistake...}

...and I saw two things that just made me catch my breath. The first was this:


Unlike the cardigan, I have no idea what I would wear it with... {...white top and cardi, maybe? with navy pumps and a tweed trench? none of which I own...} ...but it is gorgeous. The intricate detail is delicious, and the yellow is so sunny.

What do you think? Is there anything that you are hopelessly longing for this holiday season? What would you wear these items with?

Last week my lovely sister-in-law Catherine wrote me an e-mail to tell me that she bought this dress recently, and she was wondering if I could help her accessorize it. Um, yes. Love to, yes. First of all, it's one awesome find of a dress. So flattering, such a great color, and such a steal. Second, I love taking one piece and showing how versatile it is. I put together four different looks, and even though each is labeled for a specific occasion, I think they're all very adaptable. Catherine said she didn't really have a budget in mind, so I let myself splurge a little bit (although all four looks came in under $200). Let me know what you think!

A romantic night out look:
1. Cropped Knit Cardigan, $13.80, Forever 21 (link)
2. Wrap shirt dress, on sale $17.99, Fashion Bug (link)
3. Clou Strand, $38, Anthropologie (link)
4. Dahlia bunches ring, $9.99, Ruche (link)
5. Xhilaration Sydney Mary Jane Pumps, $22.99, Target (link)
6. Merona Large Classic Clutch, $16.99, Target (link)

total: $119.76

A sunny church look:
1. Safari Jacket, on sale $24.99, Calvin Klein Jeans (link)
2. Wide-Eyed Daisy Ring, $7.99, ModCloth (link)
3. Windflower Necklace, $38, Anthropologie (link)
4. Merona Tote, $26.99, Target (link)
5. Wrap shirt dress, on sale $17.99, Fashion Bug (link)
6. Anna by Fabulaire, $24.99, Rack Room (link)

total: $140.95

A sassy work look (because Catherine's husband likes her sassy):
1. Doki Geki Ruched Sleeve Boyfriend Blazer, $48, Nordstrom (link)
2. Wrap shirt dress, on sale $17.99, Fashion Bug (link)
3. Circa 78 Knot Necklace, on sale $19.99, Urban Outfitters (link)
4. Herringbone hobo, on sale $34.99, Gap (link)
5. Mossimo Veanna Platform Pumps, $29.99, Target (link)
6. Brass paisley disc earrings, $6.99, Ruche (link)

total: $157.95

A fun lunch-with-friends look:
1. Petal Trim Cardigan, $26, Forever 21 (link)
2. Mossimo Black Hobo, $19.99, Target (link)
3. Mercury Headband, $38, Anthropologie (link)
4. Lora by Limelight, $29.99, Rack Room (link)
5. Wrap shirt dress, on sale $17.99, Fashion Bug (link)
6. Repurposed Fabric Necklace and Earring Set, $47, kangas @ Etsy (link)

total: $178.97

I love the idea of a big flower pin as a vibrant fall accessory. It might seem a little counter intuitive, flowers for fall, but let's face it, multi-colored leaves can be a little cliche (they remind me of elementary school craft projects and embroidered denim vests... ugh). Flowers add a gorgeous pop of color -- I especially adore reds, corals and pinks for fall -- while adding femininity to an otherwise possibly menswear-heavy fall wardrobe. Pin one to your bag, in your hair, at your shoulder, or (my favorite) at your waist. Enjoy, and let me know what you think!


1. Felted Flower Rose Brooch, $23, BigFrozenMelon @ Etsy (link)
2. Carmine Tulle Brooch, $16, MadameVu @ Etsy (link)
3. Peach Satin Brooch, $24, VieModerne @ Etsy (link)
4. Red loopy corsage, $20, seventyseventyone @ Etsy (link)
5. Ribbon flower pin, $15, inamaterialworld @ Etsy (link)
6. Kara flower pin, $6, AllyJoysFlowers @ Etsy (link)
7. Rose felted brooch, $28, jezek @ Etsy (link)
8. Felt Flower Brooch, $20, vaivanat @ Etsy (link)
9. Burgundy Pink Cactus Bloom, $21, vaivanat @ Etsy (link)
10. Velvet flower pin, $29.50, J. Crew (link)
11. Royal Poppy Flower Clip, $16, FlowerClip.com (link)
12. Full Bouquet Clip, $18, Anthropologie (link)

I love white t-shirts. *Love* them. They're easy, classic, and go with absolutely everything. This post is inspired by my love of white t-shirts. I created four fall outfits around a simple white scoopneck tee from Ann Taylor Loft. (Remember, these are fall outfits for North Carolina -- it doesn't get really cold here until January!) I love them all! I'm also working on getting the outfits I create to total under $100; I'm not quite there yet, as evidenced by the price tags in this post. Leave a comment and let me know what you think!


1. Ringspun cotton cardigan, on sale $19.99, J. Crew (link)
2. Fab Skinny Patent Belt, $2.50, Forever 21 (link)
3. Je Te'Aime Necklace, on sale $19.99, Urban Outfitters (link)
4. The summer skirt, on sale $19.99, Gap (link)
5. Essential Scoopneck Tee, on sale $6.99, Ann Taylor Loft (link)
6. Mossimo Valda Ruffle Flats, $24.99, Target (link)

total: $94.45


1. Lightweight knit scarf, on sale $14.99, Gap (link)
2. Essential Scoopneck Tee, on sale $6.99, Ann Taylor Loft (link)
3. English Beat Vest, on sale $24, Christa Taylor (link)
4. Mossimo Odell Ballet Flats, $12.99, Target (link)
5. Faded Blue Flare Jean, on sale $39.99, Calvin Klein Jeans (link)
6. Quilted Double Breasted Jacket, $34.99, Charlotte Russe (link)

total: $133.95


1. Turnlock Clutch, $7.49, Target (link)
2. Essential Scoopneck Tee, on sale $6.99, Ann Taylor Loft (link)
3. Textured Stitch Cardigan, on sale $39.99, Calvin Klein Jeans (link)
4. Beads and threads necklace set, $9.99, Ruche (link)
5. Xhilaration Stasya Mary Jane Pumps, $22.99, Target (link)
6. City-fit cotton Bistro pant, on sale $49.99, J. Crew (link)

total: $137.44


1. Fab Belted Jacket, $15.50, Forever 21 (link)
2. Short-sleeve cotton cardigan, on sale $39.99, J. Crew (link)
3. Essential Scoopneck Tee, on sale $6.99, Ann Taylor Loft (link)
4. Multi-Bead Necklace, on sale $29.99, Fossil (link)
5. Mysterious Message Skirt, on sale $39.95, Anthropologie (link)
6. Mossimo Vonnie Pumps, $29.99, Target (link)

total: $162.41