Fairy Tales

Alright guys, today's post is pic-heavy - just warning you in advance!  I went a little cray takin' shots with my mom, ha.  We did an editorial-like (pretty sure I just made that word up but whatevs) set, which was surprisingly fun.  I'm probably going to use these snaps as piano promos, too.

A close-up shot! I really like the way my dress looks against the olive green wall.  I wasn't sure how it'd look, but it worked out well.  FYI: I'm wearing a stunning pearl heart pendant courtesy of Pearls Only - available HERE for $65 (originally $375) in four colors.

A full body shot for you guys.  I'm  LOVING my new dress courtesy of +OASAP.  I'm DEFINITELY wearing this for upcoming concerts & formal events.  This piece is extremely comfortable, and the quality's on point.  The skirt's super full  (not in a tacky way, of course) with layers and layers of chiffon!  You'll be twirlin' all night.  FYI: this dress is also available in green HERE.

A cool aerial shot!  My mom's a SOLID photographer.  I swear, she's freakin' amazing at everything - feeling blessed to have such a loving and talented mother.

Lighting here wasn't ideal, but I still love this shot!  

I know I don't normally share photos like these, but I hope you enjoyed them!  Would you guys like to see more shoots like these?  Let me know! I LOVE hearing from you guys, and your feedback means so much to me.

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Isharya Jewelry

Happy Monday, errbody!  I hope y'all had a great weekend.  I'm currently on Spring break so I'm in Pittsburgh for the next week or so *pumps fist* It feels so good to be home!  It's colder than MD, but I can deal.  For today's post, I've re-featured two of my fave pieces: my floral H&M top & my plaid Talbots pencil skirt, for a fun work-friendly ensemble.  I thought it'd be interesting to pair the two together - you guys know how much I love mixing prints - because they share colors.  My top's predominantly yellow, but the floral print = gray & white, conveniently matching my skirt.  I'm all about unexpected color & print pairings so this was a fun shoot for sure!  

I'm finally taking photos outside again!  Natural lighting does WONDERS doesn't it?

A close-up of my new +ISHARYA necklace.  What an amazing piece!  Their collection is absolutely amazing.  Founded by sister-in-laws Gauri and Radhika Tandon, Isharya blends modern techniques with heirloom details inspired by Indian's intricate and vibrant style.  They create on trend, gold-plated costume jewelry from dramatic chandelier earrings to jewel-encrusted cuffs.  Clicky here to browse their collection.  FYI:  US residents get free shipping on all orders.  Subscribe to their mailing list to get an extra 10% off.

Shirt:  H&M 

Necklace:  c/o Isharya

Skirt:  Talbots

Shoes:  Deb

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Find of the Day: Cynthia Mesh Pumps from BCBGeneration ($29.39)

Super excited to tell you guys about today's FOTD.  I picked these babies up Friday afternoon!  I love living next to a mall that has Off Saks and Last Call, ha.  These heels (originally $89) are available for $29.39 here.  Love at first sight - I mean, the mesh + cap toe + leather ankle strap? So much winning.  

These kicks are 4.25" high, but don't let that intimidate you.  Trust me, I'm AWFUL in heels (I kind of walk like a donkey, don't judge) so I'm extremely particular.  The leather strap will keep the shoe ON for starters, ha, and the mesh has a lot of give so your footsies will be all sorts of comfortable.  I can't wait to wear these loves out and about.  Great for work AND play - fits true to size.  Also available in red HERE and blue HERE.  I own the shoes in black, and I would've bought a pair in red, but they're out of 6.5's *sad face*

I'll be shopping quite a bit this week (I'm on Spring break) so I'll be sharing more finds with you guys.  I only recommend pieces I OWN so I can vouch for quality, and all FOTD's are purchased with my OWN money.  If a featured piece happens to be gifted, I'll let you guys know!

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Remix: Chevron Printed Shorts

Sooo my shorts probably look familiar because I, uh, featured them yesterday, HA.  Hey, don't judge.  I like re-wearing stuffs from my closet.  In fact, I kind of want to re-style them all week to see how many combos I can come up with *scratches head* maybe another time! I do want to do a style challenge or some sort though.

ANYWHO, I'm actually not wearing anything new today!  Yeah, that's right.  I'm feelin' EXTRA "sensible', ha.  I styled this fab +Talbots blouse HERE in a chic work-friendly look a while back.  I told y'all this blouse was mad versatile - looks amazing dressed up AND down.  Let me quickly share my thought process behind today's LOTD.

"Heck yes, this blouse would look awesome with my shorts because both have hot pink hues.  Sweet. What do I wear on top though? OH, a white blazer! I'm gonna throw on a white crossbody to match, and accessorize with a gold necklace to spice thangs up." Hashtag deep thoughts of Kimberly Kong, ha!  

I know you guys can't see this because I didn't take a full body shot, but for the record, I wore beige heels  Neutral canvas for my brights!  Beige heels are my go-to for sure.

Blazer:  H&M

Blouse: Talbots

Bag: Deb

Shorts: c/o Haute Rogue ($48)

Necklace: c/o Hanuel ($24)

Let's take a look at the office-friendly look I was talkin' about earlier...

Which outfit do you guys prefer? The casual ensemble above or the polished work-friendly look below?

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The Neon Blazer

I'm SUPER excited to share today's look with you guys. I have a lot to tell you so let's get right to it. Let's start with my fab new blazer.  This stunning neon jacket is available for $33.75 HERE (originally $45) at Cheeky Peach.  I highly recommend this piece!  I know I'll be wearing it all summer long.  The color's super trendy, and the fit's really flattering (slightly oversized - think boyfriend fit).  A girl can never have too many blazers - I recommend purchasing them in different colors, fits, and prints!  FYI: also available in royal blue.  Use code KIM to get free shipping!  You're welcome in advance.

Let's take a closer look at my necklace courtesy of Sparkles & Pop.  Gorgeous, right?  Available here for $48.  I know the piece is kind of pricey, but trust me when I say it's worth EVERY freakin' penny. The quality's off the hook.  The photo really doesn't do it justice.  If you're looking for new statement jewelry, check 'em out STAT.  I actually featured them on SS yesterday (clicky HERE if you missed aforementioned the post).  Yeah, I'd be their official brand ambassador if I could, ha.  

My outfit sans blazer.  Love, love, LOVE my new Haute Rogue shorts - available here for $48.  A great alternative to denim shorts!  The fab watercolor-esque chevron print is perfect for summer, and the loose fit (cinched by an elastic waistband) is flattering AND comfortable.  FYI:  US residents get free shipping on their orders.

Blazer:  c/o Cheeky Peach ($33.75)

Top:  Charlotte Russe

Shorts:  c/o Haute Rogue ($48)

Necklace:  c/o Sparkles & Pop ($48)

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I'm Bringin' Sexy Back

TGIF! For today's post, I've styled a sexy GNO look for y'all.  I'm gonna do that every Friday from here on out to celebrate the weekend...even though I work like a crazy person regardless, ha.  Hashtag life of a musician.  ANYWHO, I styled my fave peplum skirt with a sexy crop today on SS.  A quick and easy formula to follow since you really can't go wrong with this combo.

Here's a full body shot for y'all!  So sorry today's post is short, but I'm totally exhausted.  I've been studying like a psycho for an upcoming doctoral exam so I'm kind of brain-dead (lack of sleep and all that jazz).  I'll make sure I do a better write-up next time!  

A close-up shot of my necklace from Sparkles & Pop!  I'm seriosuly OBSESSED with their collection.  This piece is available HERE for $28.  I can't recommend it enough.  I'll be featuring more of their items in the near future so keep an eye out.  If you're lookin' for amazing statement jewelry, make sure to check 'em out.  You won't be disappointed!  OH, and they're currently giving customers 20% off on pastel pieces, and errbody gets a free gift with a necklace purchase (!!!)

Necklace:  c/o Sparkles & Pop ($28)

Top:  c/o New Frog

Skirt:  Forever 21

Shoes:  Nine West

Clutch:  c/o Handbag Heaven

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Polished Pearls

I'm totally excited to  share another classy work-friendly look with you guys today on Sensible Stylista.

Love, love, LOVE my new dress from Talbots!  I bought a BUNCH of work-garb there recently. They were having a huge Spring sale so I scored a ton of new skirts and blouses for ridiculously low prices.  This dress is (unfortunately) sold out, but you can see other chic options here. 

Bag:  Prada

Shoes:  c/o Deb

Dress:  +Talbots 

Necklace:  c/o lemon Drop Boutique ($32)

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Classy in Florals

It's time for another office-friendly look.  I should start a new series called "Workwear Wednesday".  Hm, that actually sounds like a good idea! I think I might do that.  What do you guys think? Would that be helpful for y'all?

Anywho, I've featured two more pieces (skirt + blouse) from my +Talbots haul today on Sensible Stylista.  I told y'all I took advantage of their Spring blowout.  I wasn't exaggerating, ha!  My top's sold out *sad face*, but you can buy my skirt here for $54.99 (originally $119) - FYI, it's also available in four other colors.  The piece is beyond classy.  The material's a beautiful silk/cotton blend - totally worth every penny.  TIP:  use ebates to get cash back from your online purchases.  It seriously adds up!  Clicky HERE to sign-up.

A full body shot for you guys.  As you can see, I'm obsessed with my new Givenchy Antigona.  I love that it matches my new blouse perfectly.  I kept everything else simple because I wanted the print & colors to pop! I'm really digging today's classy get-up - definitely one of my fave work-friendly ensembles.  I'm constantly "torn" between professional Kim and trendy Kim, haha.  Some days I feature looks I wear to work, and other times I share looks I wear out to events, GNO's, hangs,  dates, etc.  That's why there are two "different styles" on my blog.  I hope you guys don't mind the variety!

A closer look at my blouse!  Love, love, LOVE the floral print.  I wish this piece was still available for you guys!  Such a bummer.  I'll do the next best thing and share some other fab floral tops with you guys below!  Scroll down to see my picks...

Bag:  Givenchy via TJ Maxx Runway

Skirts:  Talbots ($54.99)

Blouse  Talbots (similar)

Cardigan: Banana Republic Factory Outlet

Shoes:  Nine West Factory Outlet

PS.  Here are my floral blouse picks as promised above (varying price points).

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The Floral Blazer

Totes excited to re-feature my Oak73 blazer today on SS.  The floral print's so spring-y!  For those of you interested, it's available HERE in four other patterns, and it's currently on sale for $50 (originally $150).

A shot of my outfit sans blazer.  As you all know, I absolutely love peplum!  This strapless top  is a staple for sure.  It's so comfortable - I love that it has a built-in bra.  Anywho, I styled it with a bodycon mini to create a faux-dress today, but it looks awesome paired with skinny jeans and flared skirts as well.

Unfortunately,  my top's no longer available online, but no worries.  Here are my other adorable picks under $25.

A full body shot for you guys...

Skirt:  c/o Charlotte Russe

Top:  Deb

Blazer:  Oak73 - on sale here for $50
Necklace:  c/o Hanuel
Shoes:  Deb
Bag:  Prada

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Remember the Name

I named today's post after my new fave song!  I'm currently obsessed with "Remember the Name" by Fort Minor.  Is anyone else a fan? Ooo, and I'm also loving The Weeknd's "Earned It".  I haven't seen 50 Shades yet, but I have a feelin' I'm gonna love the soundtrack more than the movie, ha.  ANYWHO, let's talk fashion.

I centered today's OOTD around my new floral blouse from Talbots - yet another piece I picked up during their Spring blowout.  It was love at first sight!  Their blouses are amazing - due to chic prints and high-quality fabrics - and look great dressed up and down.  

I went casual today and styled the sophisticated blouse with a flirty skater skirt.

I absolutely love wearing high-waisted skaters.  They are SO flattering and comfortable.  Here are some of my favorite picks under $25.

Let's take a closer look at my new Darling clutch - currently on sale for $30.  Unfortunately, the blush  version is sold out, but it's available in black here.  I highly recommend this piece - it's definitely a current fave.  I'm also lusting for the Gemma Clutch and the Daisie Box Bag.

A close up of my clutch!  Have any of you shopped Darling's collection?

Clutch:  c/o Darling ($30)

Skirt:  c/o The Girl That Loves

Shirt:  Talbots

Blazer: H&M

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Sponsor Spotlight: Lindi Skincare

The Lindi Skin brand was created in 2003 as the first complete skincare line designed for those undergoing cancer treatment - clinically-proven, safe and, gentle for anyone with compromised skin.  Although the line originally targeted patients undergoing chemo, the gentle nature of the line appealed to anyone with delicate skin - the healing botanicals and antioxidants delivered ultimate hydration!  

The line's ideal for winter skin, older skin, allergy-prone skin, bad sun, wind burns, and much more!  Many dermatologists and cosmetic surgeons recommend Lindi products for post-peel and laser treatments based on their anti-inflammatory healing properties.  

2

The Coveted Crop

I'm just going to be really honest with you guys.  I was feelin' super lazy today so I scrubbed it hardcore.  When I was a freshman in college, I used to live in sweats. Those were dark times *shakes head* Thank god that phase is doneso - I bum around way more stylishly now, ha!

Fashion formula: crop top + high waisted shorts + slip ons = aweseomsauce

Yeah, one really can't go wrong with combo above.  I like wearing crop tops with high waisted bottoms because you show a tasteful sliver of skin.  I'm not really into the whole 90's pop star look.  If you have the body to pull off a crop & low rise jeans, kudos but def. not my cup of tea.  

NOTE:  you should wear whatever makes you feel AMAZING!  Remember, my blog's not about high-fashion.  I by no means consider myself to be a fashion expert!  I'm jut an everyday girl who wants to share her passion for fashion, beauty, and well, all things I find cute and helpful.

Anywho, here are a few of my current fave crop top picks!  All under $25 of course!  Which one's your favorite?

Let's take a closer look at my +Charlotte Russe top!

Bag:  c/o Paul's Boutique

Shorts:  c/o Aeropostale

Top:  c/o Charlotte Russe

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Sponsor Spotlight: Scentbird

Alright guys, if you're a fan of monthly subscriptions & fragrances, you'll absolutely love Scentbird.   It's the best of both worlds *grins* SB's an awesome designer perfume subscription service.  You can experience luxe scents without committing to full bottles.  Get a generous 30-day supply of YOUR pick for $14.95 a month.  

I don't know about you guys, but I'm super fickle about perfumes.  I like using different ones depending on my mood.  If you're like me at all, you'll really enjoy this service.

You can choose from over 350 luxury scents by Chloe, Gucci, Hermes, and more!  These fragrances are delivered in a sleek purse spray (pictured on the right) that's easy to take on-the-go.  Super convenient for sure!  I'm currently sampling Issey Miyake's Eau D'Issey Absolue, and it's sublime.

 The purse spray's really easy to use.  Twist to spray, twist to close!  Just like lipstick.  FYI: make sure you hold onto your case because SB will send you refills in the future.  

What do you guys think of this service?  Are you interested in subscribing?  Out of curiosity, do you guys use any other service like this? Think Le Tote, AdoreMe, BirchBox, etc.  Oh, and before I go, I'd like to give you guys a special discount code.  Enter SCENT25 at checkout to get 25% off your first perfume!  

4

The Blanket Scarf

Oh, how I love blanket scarves.  This cozy Boohoo number is tres chic!  I wore it like a cape for today's OOTD, but you can style it so many different ways.  Here's a fab article for you guys - lots of inspo for sure:  20 Style Tips On How To Wear Blanket Scarves from +Gurl.com.  My favorites are numbers 2, 7, and 11 - I couldn't just pick one!  What do you guys think?

My outfit sans scarf!  I'm wearing my favorite faux-leather skirt today.  I absolutely LOVE the zippers and asymmetrical hem - clicky here to pick one up for yourself.  IMO, leather skirts are a wardrobe must-have.  They seriously look good with everything.  Try styling one with a chambray top or a colorful blouse!  

Skirt:  c/o Chicwish

Turtleneck:  Ann Taylor

Blanket Scarf:  c/o Boohoo

Bag:  Chanel

6

Look for Less: House of Harlow 1960 Chelsea Sunglasses

YAY! It's time for another "Look for Less".  I absolutely LOVE sharing these posts. I'm definitely going to do more of them in the future - perhaps on a weekly basis.  Anywho, for today's post I featured House of Harlow's stunning Chelsea sunnies. Celebs like Miley Cyrus and Nicole Ritchie have been spotted wearing these trendy shades (pictured below).

These photos are obviously not mine, haha!

Here's a close-up for you guys!  Don't these sunnies ooze hollywood glamour? *swoons*  These shades are amazing...and pricey ($138 to be exact), BUT I found an amazing alternative for y'all because I'm so "sensible", haha.

TA-DA!  These fab cat-eyes are available at +FREYRS for $9.95 HERE.  Now, I'm no mathematician but $138 vs $10?  Yeah.  Serious winning goin' on for sure.  Trust me when I say Freyrs is on point - their sunglasses seriously don't disappoint.  I legit LOVE every pair they send me. Designer quality for a FRACTION of the price? I think yes.  

FYI: I own these personally... like all the other picks I present to y'all in my "Look for Less" & "Find of the Day" series'.  I would never recommend something I didn't love myself.  Please let me know if you guys have any questions by commenting below, tweeting me, whatever.  I'm pretty much active on every social media platform so I'm easy to get in touch with *smiles*

What designer pieces are you lusting for? 

4

Haute Deals

YAY!  It's time for a NEW series on SS.  I've been trying to think of  ways to be helpful, and since my blog's all about being sensible, I thought it'd be fun to share weekly sales & coupon codes with you all.  I thought I was real clever naming it "Haute Deals", haha!  I know, I know.  I'm a nerd!  Anywho, I'm gonna post a new one every Wednesday at 4:30 PM EST so make sure to check back.  Also, comment with your favorite store/s below so I know what to include in the future.  Enjoy!

Aldo

Get $25 off your next purchase of $75 - expires March 22nd.

Ann Taylor

Extra 40% off sale styles!  Free shipping on purchases $175+.

Aeropostale

Get $25 off your purchase of $100+ with code 25OFF; free shipping on orders $50+.

Banana Republic 

Extra 50% off sale styles online & in-stores with code BRSPRING.  Ends 3/22.  Free shipping on orders over $50+.

Bluefly

Two-day spring shoe event - get an extra 30% off.  Also, get free shipping with code SHIP150 on orders $150+.

Calvin Klein

Get an extra 35% off sitewide + free shipping for their Friends + Family online exclusive - ends March 22nd.  

Charlotte Russe

Get an extra 30% off all plus sized items + free shipping on orders $50+.

Chico's

Get 50% off your highest-priced item when you spend $100+ with code 92566 - valid until March 19th.

Express

Get $25 off every $75 spent with code 1884 (valid until March 19th) or get 15% off any order with code 9050 (valid until March 31st).

Forever 21

Up to 70% off plus free shipping on orders over $50.

Gap

Free shipping on orders $50+.

InPink
Get an extra 30% off sale bracelets with code BRACEXTRA.

Kohl's

Free standard shipping on purchases $75+.

Lane Bryant 

40% off sitewide with code SPRINGMELB.  Online only - ends tomorrow.

Macy's

Extra 50% off with code FIVE.  Free shipping with orders $99+.

New Balance

Save $15 on orders of $100+ with code HORSESHOE.

Nine West

Free standard shipping on orders $75+.

Old Navy

30% off regular styles, 20% off sale items with code ENJOY.  Online only, ends tonight at 11:59 PM ET.  Free shipping on orders over $50+.

Ralph Lauren

Free shipping on all orders $125+ with code FREESHIP125.

Toms

Get $5 off your purchase of $25+ with code SPRING15.  Valid until May 31st.

2

I See Fire

I told you guys I was obsessed with Talbots!  I've styled yet another work-friendly ensemble featuring the brand.  Man, I love that store - they have the cutest skirts & printed blouses!  Their pieces are usually too expensive for me, but that's what big sales are for.  

Anywho, I styled my ocelot button-front with a lace pencil skirt.  As you all know, I like experimenting with different prints and textures.  I accessorized with my favorite collar necklace - available at Hanuel HERE - and wore heels to match.  To top the look  off, I threw on retro cat shades inspired by House of Harlow.  

Here's a shot of my blouse sans jacket!  It's such a versatile piece - it transitions beautifully from day to night and work to play.  I'll make sure to re-style it in a casual OOTD for you guys soon so you can see!

Skirt:  Talbots (currently available for $50)

Top:  Talbots (currently available for $40)

Necklace:  c/o Hanuel ($24)

Sunnies:  c/o Freyrs Eyewear ($9.94)

Jacket:  Ann Taylor Factory Outlet

Shoes: c/o Deb

Bag:  Prada

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