this vs. that: navy + pink

1. Kate Spade Long Necklace, Kate Spade Pendant, J. Crew Jackie Cardigan, Kate Spade Bow Belt, J. Crew Factory Pencil Skirt, J. Crew Ballet Flat  |  2. Forever 21 Charm Necklace, Target Beaded Necklace (also seen here), Old Navy Cardigan, Forever 21 Bow Belt, Target Pencil Skirt, Old Navy Ballet Flat

 
What made me first start thinking about starting a blog was comparing outfits such as this one above. For years I've admired brands like kate spade and J. Crew, but at times could not afford, or justify spending $$$ for similar styles I knew I could find at place like Target, Old Navy, Forever 21, etc.

This is a perfect example of finding a great look, but only spending a fraction of the price you'd pay for the big labels. Seriously...that Forever 21 heart necklace on the right is only $1.80!!! It's adorable, and not all that different than the $58.00 version I found at ms. spade's. Sorry kate spade and J.Crew, I love you, but I love saving money more! ;)

I'd love to hear what you think...leave your comments below!

xoxo,

what i wore: red + gray

 

shirt: Target  |  jeans: Wal-mart  |  wedges: Payless  |  watch: Target  |  necklace: Forever 21 (old)  |  sunglasses: Buffalo Exchange

This is the outfit I featured in my first "this vs that"...and I can't wait to wear these jeans this spring/summer with striped t-shirts, cardigans, tanks, etc. They're definitely versatile and I'm so glad I found an affordable version!

The chambray shirt is another new favorite. Target has some great pieces this spring...and their Mossimo line actually fits true to size (I find most of their clothes fit really big and the smallest size they carry is a 2).

Thanks for reading!

P.S. Expect to see these wedges soon in an upcoming "this vs. that"!

xoxo,

friday finds.

[DIY project for my bedroom that I completed awhile back]

Now that the weather is a bit warmer I've started running during lunch a few days a week. This is something I started doing last spring while training for my first 10k, and I kept it up until last winter. I've been trying to fit in a run at least twice a week and it's been amazing! There's really no better way to break up your day than breaking a sweat!

I've been counting down the weeks until the time change, and it will be here on Sunday. Anyone else out there ready for an extra hour of daylight?

Have a great weekend!

[Running during lunch at work...best part of my day]

[Heart rate monitor - best gift ever! If you run and don't have one, you absolutely need one!]

[These Mossimo dresses from Target feel like they were made for me...seriously, anchors and bikes! So excited!]

[Adding to my jacket collection with this denim jacket from Old Navy - fits perfect!]

xoxo,

spring finds: blouses

1. Forever 21 Sheer Colorblocked Top |  2. Target Mossimo Tunic Blouse  |  3. Forever 21 Basic 3/4 Sleeve Blouse  |  4. Target Xhilaration Peplum Top (also seen here)  |  5. Target Xhilaration Peplum Lace Top  6. Forever 21 Neon Polka Dot Button Up  |  7. Old Navy Striped Tab-Sleeved Top  |  8. Forever 21 Colorblocked Blouse  |  Necklace: J. Crew Factory

Lately I've been noticing blouses everywhere...and I want one in every color!

The finds above are perfect for spring...colorful, affordable, and best of all...versatile! All of these can definitely be worn to work with a pencil skirt or cropped pants, on the weekends with a a cute pair of shorts, or for an evening out with your favorite pair of skinny jeans and heels. All you need is a great statement necklace (I'm loving the turquoise one above), and you're good to go!

xoxo,

what i wore: black + black

cardigan: J. Crew  |  pants: Gap  |  shoes: Target  |  necklace: SF China Town street vendor  |  watch: Timex  |  wristlet: Coach (old)  |  sunglasses: Gap

So I don't know about the rest of you, but when I'm getting dressed for work, I find myself choosing black at least 2-3 times a week. While somewhat boring, I've always found black to be classic, slimming, and most importantly easy! Throw on a colorful accessory or two, and you're good to go!

What are your favorite wardrobe staples for work?

xoxo,