closet staple: the utility jacket

utility jacket: H&M (old, similar, love this one) // striped shirt: H&M (similar, similar, love this one)
necklace: J. Crew via Poshmark (similar) // jeans: Forever 21 // flats: Payless // watch: Michael Kors // earrings: Forever 21

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This cargo jacket is probably my favorite purchase from H&M...ever. I've seen stylish girls rocking similar jackets for awhile now, and I used to think they weren't really my style...that I'm more of a cardigan type of girl. I'll admit it...I was wrong (first time for everything, right? Right?!?). I LOVE this style of jacket and the fact that it's so versatile. I love layering it over a simple striped t-shirt (above), over a semi-casual work outfit, though my favorite is pairing it with boots and a scarf for colder weather. Definitely a closet staple!

While I've seen much pricier versions at J. Crew and Madewell, this version was only $40 at H&M! If you're in the market for a cargo jacket this fall, be sure to check out Target, Old Navy, F21, etc for wallet friendly versions!

Hope you all have a great Monday!

xoxo,

Lotus.

dress/necklace/ring/heels: Lotus // watch: Michael Kors // nail colors: Sinful Colors 'Dream On' and Wet 'n Wild 'Crest Syrah'

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A few weeks ago I met Jackie, a recent Silicon Valley transplant and owner of the brand new boutique, Lotus. Located in downtown Los Gatos, Jackie invited me to come and check out their shop, and of course I said YES!

A little history...Jackie opened the original Lotus location in Charlotte, North Carolina back in 2004. After making the move to the Bay Area this past summer, she began working on opening a west coast location, and voila...Lotus is now in Los Gatos!

Not only did I find some great classic pieces (check out that LBD above...LOVE!), but they also have really fun pieces like the "Shit Bloggers Wear" t-shirt and the dainty gold 'tooth' necklace below. Though you're able to shop both online and in-store (for you local Bay Area ladies anyways), I highly recommend checking out their jewelry selection in-store. I took home a couple of really unique pieces (the necklace and ring I'm wearing above), which are both of great quality, and super affordable.

Actually, everything in the store is pretty affordable (along the lines of H+M and Zara). To celebrate the opening of their new Los Gatos location, Jackie is offering Andrea Everyday readers 15% online with the code, "A-EVERYDAY".  Happy shopping, and make sure to say hello to Jackie if you stop by Lotus in Los Gatos!

t-shirt/sweatshirt/purse/bracelets: Lotus // jeans: Forever 21 // flats: Forever 21

xoxo,


Note: This is a sponsored post, though all thoughts and opinions are my own.

bows on my toes.

blazer: H&M (old, similar, similar) // blouse: F21 // necklace: Crossroads Trading Co (similar)
jeans: H&M // flats: Crossroads Trading Co (love this similar pair even more!) // watch: Michael Kors

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I've probably had these flats for almost two years and only worn them twice...I just never seem to know what to wear them with! [Confession: I bought them because of the bows!] Flash forward to this morning when I realized that they perfectly match this necklace I got over the summer (last seen here). Boom. New outfit!

Don't you just love when that happens? :)

Hope you're all having a great week so far!

xoxo,

oldies but goodies.

shirt: Target (similar) // skirt: thrifted (similar) // necklace: DIY project // watch: Michael Kors // heels: J. Crew via eBay (similar)

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One of my favorite things is to mix and match items from my closet and create brand new outfits. It's kind of like shopping within your own closet...free!

Here I've taken a casual cotton plaid shirt that I usually pair with jeans, and paired it with a classic navy pencil skirt. Two items that I normally wouldn't wear together, but the plaid shirt is instantly office appropriate with a pair of heels, a couple of simple accessories, and my go-to top knot.

What about you ladies...have you put together any unexpected outfit combinations this fall?

xoxo,

friday finds + faves.

[One of the many fun finds at Lotus in Los Gatos]

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Happy Friday friends! It's been awhile since I've done a Friday Finds post, so let's get to it!

• Looking for something to binge watch this weekend? Gilmore Girls is now on Netflix...and PS, Friends is coming to Netflix on January 1st. You're welcome. 
• For those of you local to Silicon Valley...my friend Jackie's boutique, Lotus is now open for business in downtown Los Gatos. More to come next week but go check it out for affordable fashion and unique jewelry! 
• H&M's sister company, & Other Stories is now shipping within the US. Think Zara prices, modern + quality pieces, minus the H&M trends. I'm loving these quilted leather pumps, this sleek leather work tote, and their entire jewelry line!
• Do any of you ladies waste as much time as I do on Buzzfeed? (I know I"m not the only one!) This weeks fave's include this little lady who rock my socks, 16 style tips, and a little something for you fans of spin class! 
• Halloween is next Friday, and if you'd like to take a more subtle approach to this holiday, try out this devilish hat, gold horned headband, or sophisticated kittie headband. I need to find a DIY for that hat ASAP!

Have a greet weekend!

xoxo,