The Upgraded Trench Coat

So, since I've been featuring a slew of dressy outfits, I thought I'd style a casual look for you guys today.  

I'm SO in love with this double-breasted trench from Spiegel.  The high-low hem is beyond adorable, and the lace detailing is to die for.  If you're interested in purchasing this piece, clicky HERE.  It's currently on sale, and it's also available in ivory.

A closer look at my new blouse courtesy of Living Dolls LA.  SUPER cute and comfy - I highly recommend checking this piece. Clicky HERE for the product link...

 OH, and don't you guys like my shoes? I'm obsessed with pops of animal print!  

A close-up of my choker courtesy of Kash!  It also came with matching earrings.  I can't wait to style them on here...

 Trench:  c/o Spiegel 

Top:  c/o Living Doll Los Angeles ($34)

Bag:  c/o Ora Delphine

Jeans:  Blue Society via TJ Maxx - old

Shoes:  5/48 via Last Call Neiman Marcus - old

Necklace:  c/o Kash Collection 

Deb's Valentine's Day Edition - Part 3: Edgy

For my third and final V-day look, I've styled an edgy ensemble complete with a faux leather jacket.  I got this dress at Deb a couple weeks ago and thought it'd be PERFECT for the occasion.  Unfortunately I can't seem to find it online, but no worries!  Clicky HERE and HERE for similar pieces.

I'm SO in love with the illusion waist.  The black lace gives off a super sexy vibe.  I couldn't help but play it up by pairing the dress with a fierce faux leather jacket.  Oh, and the studded clutch and statement heels add edge.

How could I resist?  Ya'll know how much I love statement jewelry!  I've been sporting this piece left and right! I highly recommend buying this item - super cute and versatile!

 A closer look at my heels.  Clicky HERE for a similar pair from Deb...

Dress:  c/o Deb 

Tights:  Talbots Factory Outlet - old

Jacket:  Ann Taylor Factory Outlet - old

Clutch:  c/o Handbag Heaven ($39.91)

Necklace:  c/o Deb ($7.74)

Shoes:  c/o Deb

That concludes my V-day collaboration with Deb! I hope you guys liked the series.  Which look is your favorite?

Deb's Valentine's Day Edition - Part 2: Trendy

Alrighty guys, it's time for part 2 of my collaboration with Deb - if you missed the first segment, clicky HERE.  Today's post is dedicated to those of you who'd prefer NOT to wear a V-day dress.  Who says you can't look smokin' hot in pants?  Anywho, I centered my ensemble around a strapless peplum top and paired it with high-waisted pants for a trendy look.  FYI:  the top comes with the baller belt pictured below.

To be completely honest, I wouldn't call these pants per se - they look and feel like leggings. I mean, don't get me wrong, they're cute and all, but I wouldn't feel comfortable wearing them as pants.  Luckily my blazer covers my behind so I don't feel super exposed.  Just giving you guys a heads up.

Oh, and I wanted to talk to you guys about shoes.  I threw on a pair of round-toe heels, but in retrospect, I wish I had worn my black ankle boots. TIP:  Having one continuous black line creates the illusion of longer/slimmer legs.

Top:  c/o Deb ($18.67)

Necklace:  Off Saks Fifth - old

Blazer:  Barney's New York Factory Outlet

Shoes:  Candie's via Kohl's - old

Bag:  Prada - gifted

Pants:  c/o Deb ($16.42)

Deb's Valentine's Day Edition - Part 1: Classy

I'm SUPER excited to launch the first segment of my three-part Valentine's Day campaign with Deb.  I'll be sharing different looks with you guys over the next few days, woot!   For today's post, I've styled a classy ensemble...

I centered my look around this adorable strapless number.  Isn't the bow super sweet? Anywho, this dress is on the shorter side so I definitely recommend wearing it with tights. Oh, and this item is also available in red.  Clicky HERE to see for yourself...

I threw on an open face cardigan for warmth and then accessorized with some serious bling...  

I grabbed a metallic clutch and threw on a pair of strappy sandals to finish the look!  

Dress: c/o Deb ($29.92)

Cardigan:  Kohl's - old

Necklace:  c/o Outrage Fashion

 Clutch:  Coach Factory Outlet - old

Tights:  Talbots Factory Outlet - old

Shoes:  c/o Deb ($37.42)

Others Follow

For today's post, I've styled a casual look featuring pieces courtesy of Others Follow, Deb, and Chicwish.  I love my sponsors so much, especially since today's gifted items are totes adorable.

If you're looking for a solid tote, make sure to check this bag out by clicking HERE.  This piece has become a total wardrobe staple.  I'm convinced it's the perfect everyday bag!

Look at the pretty stars! 

Oh heyyyy I'm a triple threat, what what!  Hardy har har...

A closer look at my strappy sandals courtesy of Deb.  I highly recommend purchasing these babies! Talk about some serious versatility...

Top:  Forever 21

Jacket:  c/o Others Follow

Belt:  Michael Kors via TJ Maxx

Pants:  Rock & Republic via Kohl's

 Bag:  c/o Chicwish ($63.67)

 Shoes:  c/o Deb ($37.42)

Tropical Prints

Alright guys,  listen up!  I want ya'll to take a printed bustier, pair it with a cute skirt, throw on a fitted jacket, and walk out the door struttin' like the BAMF you are, ha.  But in all seriousness, this combo is a winner. 

Oh, I don't know if you guys remember, but I did a sponsor spotlight on Kash Collection (clicky HERE to see) a couple weeks ago. I liked their collection THAT much. Anywho,  I've featured a couple of items from their boutique in today's post: an asymmetrical skirt & fab statement necklace.  The skirt is unfortunately no longer available, but the necklace is still up for grabs! Make sure to check out their selection by clicking here.

Shoes:  c/o Deb

Skirt:  c/o Kash Collection

Bustier:  c/o The Skandl

Bag:  Prada - gifted

Jacket:  Ann Taylor Factory Outlet - old

Necklace:  c/o Kash Collection ($20)

Lace Accents

Dude, I totally feel like a princess in this blouse - the girly details are too cute.  Yay for getting in touch with my inner femininity.  I knew it was in there somewhere, hardy har har.  Anywho, don't you just love the lace? I also really like the dropped waistline.  I usually like to cinch the small of my waist, so it's a nice change.  FYI:  this piece is still available on PB&J Boutique's site if you're interested. 

I mean, seriously though, aren't these sleeves ridiculously cute?  OH, and how many of you shop at Coach's factory outlet? I'm guessing quite a few.  I'm not sure if ya'll know about this, but they have an online store as well.  FYI:  one has to request membership first.  Anywho, they always have fab pieces available, and the prices are AMAZING!

Aren't my new bow gloves from PB & J Boutique adorable?  Unfortunately they don't have anymore of these babies in stock, but there are other cute styles available if you're interested.  OH, and if you're obsessed with bows like I am, make sure to clicky HERE for my "Bows, bows, bows" pinterest board.

Bag:  Coach Factory Outlet

Blouse:  c/o PB & J Boutique 

Gloves:  c/o PB & J Boutique ($20)

Jeggings:  Paige via Off Saks Fifth - old

Shoes:  Jessica Simpson via TJ Maxx - old

Trench:  Burberry - gifted

Polka Dots & Peplum

Polka dots, ERMERGERD!  Yeah, I really needed to get that out of my system.  Anywho, I still can't get over how adorable this dress is. I'm sure you guys can tell since I've blogged about it several times already.  If ya'll are interested, it's available HERE on the Sincerely Sweet Boutique site for $28.99.  Oh, and have you guys seen my INTERNATIONAL giveaway with them?  They've very generously offered to give one lucky reader a $50 gift card!  What are you waiting for?  ENTER NOW! Don't you want a cute polka dot peplum dress of your own?

I bought this faux-leather jacket years ago, and it's still in fab shape.  I think I got it for like $20?  Bargain shopping FTW!

Is it me or does my hair match the brick wall? Hardy har har.  

Tights:  c/o Deb

Booties:  c/o Deb

Bag:  Prada - gifted

Necklace:  c/o Charlotte Russe

Dress:  c/o Sincerely Sweet Boutique ($28.99)

Jacket:  Ann Taylor Factory Outlet - old

Black Stripes

Alright ya'll.  Here's my second throwback post.  If you missed the first one, clicky HERE to access it.  Anywho, today's look was shot in the Fall. It was pretty warm at the time, so I didn't have to wear a jacket or anything.  This look would be easy to "winterize" as well.  Simply throw on a pair of over-the-knee boots and sport a sweet faux-fur trimmed moto jacket. 

Top:  H&M - old

Necklace:  c/o Wild Butterfly Boutique ($14.95)

Pants:  Rock & Republic via Kohl's

Shoes:  Candie's via Kohl's -old

Bag:  c/o Chicwish

Sponsor Spotlight: Kash Collection

For today's post, I'd like to introduce ya'll to Kash Collection.  I recently received a package from them, and I have to say, I'm SUPER impressed with the quality of their clothing and accessories.  I seriously LOVE everything they sent me, and I RARELY feel that way.  What can I say?  I'm picky! I'll be styling the aforementioned pieces on Sensible Stylista soon, so make sure to keep an eye out.  Anywho, the pieces I'm featuring today aren't the ones I received personally, but I'm assuming the quality is just as fab.  What do you guys think of these pieces?  Where have you guys been shopping as of late?

Little Miss Peplum Dress / Fall is Forever Boutique Tunic / VIP Maxi Dress

Lined in Diamonds / Sweet Jane / Stone Teardrop Earrings / Classic Gold Boutique Bracelet

Summer Lovin'

Alright, it's throwback time ya'll.  I was screwin' around on my computer last night and discovered TWO photo shoots I totally forgot about! No worries though cause I've decided to share them with you guys anyways, hardy har har.  I mean, this outfit could easily be winterized - just throw on a warm winter coat, black tights and BAM, you're good to go.

Sigh, I miss my waves.  I got my hair chemically straightened a couple weeks ago, but unfortunately my hairdresser messed up - it's like half-wavy and half-straight.  I was super pissed because I paid a butt-load of money to get it done. Plus, I had to spend time straightening it every morning. Anywho, I was worried that my hair would get damaged by the heat so I eventually stopped messing with it, and it actually doesn't look terrible. It's very natural.  I think I actually like it.  Sexy bedhead FTW.  

My super super fierce spiky necklace!  LOVE the edge it brings to the table.  I totally feel like I can whoop some ass when I wear this piece.

Skirt:  Forever 21 - old

Shoes:  Simply Vera Vera Wang via Kohl's

Necklace:  Cara via Nordstrom

Blazer:  c/o Aeropostale

Top:  c/o Deb

New Year, New Lifestyle

In an effort to get back in shape, I've decided to tackle Jillian Michaels' "30 Day Shred".  I was actually gonna do Insanity again, but since its been a while I'd rather ease into it. Plus, I wanna get back in the habit of working out in the early morn and the thought of HIIT at 6AM kinda makes me wanna vomit - at least for now.

I've heard good things about "30 Day Shred" so I'm excited!  I actually just completed Day 4.  There are three levels total, so I'll be spending ten days on each segment. I've decided to forego rest days for the time being.  I didn't have a chance to weigh myself before the program, so I did it on Day 2.  My starting weight is 114 lbs.  I'll be doing my weekly weigh-ins on Sundays from here on out.

I'll also be dieting diligently.  Eating clean has always been a challenge for me because I hate eating healthy food. I admit that my body feels great after eating a salad, but I will never, EVER, enjoy fruits or veggies.  When I lived in NYC a couple years back, I dieted hardcore - just to clarify, when I say "diet", I don't mean deprive myself of food - and worked out religiously.  I was in the best shape of my life.  I felt super fit and healthy.  I really wanna get back to that place, so I'll be eating clean all day er day.

I've always been an all-or-nothing kind of girl.   I either exercise excessively and eat crazy clean or watch a TV marathon while stuffing my face with chinese take-out.  My lack of consistency messes with my head, and the yo-yo dieting screws with my body.  Because I want these lifestyle changes to be permanent, I've come up with a new set of dieting guidelines for 2014:

1.  Beverages:  Unlimited coffee, tea, and milk.  Juice and diet soda in moderation.
2.  Up to two alcoholic drinks allowed weekly.
3.  One dessert & one cheat meal each week.
4.  No late night eating.
5.  Stay hydrated with lots of water.
6.  Have fish 2-3x each week and eat lean protein for every meal.
7.  Have at least 2 servings of fruit and veggies each day.

I think these rules are reasonable, but I'm curious on to hear what you guys think.  Are any of you planning to get fit in 2014?  What are some of your resolutions for the new year?  

How-to: Scrub it with Sophistication

For today's post, I've featured a super comfy yet stylish outfit!  My goal was to showcase a scrubby yet sophisticated look...and I should clarify, when I say "scrubby" I mean "feeling-too-lazy-to-look-cute", ha!  

Anywho, when I was an undergrad I used to live in hoodies and zip-ups.  Now don't get me wrong.  They're super comfy, and I'll still wear them out from time to time, but I think there are classier alternatives! Think boyfriend cardigans instead of oversized hoodies - 10x sexier and equally comfy. OH, and material makes a huge difference too.  Instead of sporting a graphic zip-up, try a luxe cashmere version.  I know, I know.  Cashmere is hella expensive.  No worries, there are affordable options available at stores like TJ Maxx and Marshalls.  

I bought these Vince skinnies a while back at TJ Maxx for a very reasonable price. I think they were $50 or so?  I wouldn't normally dole out that much cash for bottoms, but these pants somehow magically felt like jeggings.  To be honest, I'm not actually a very big pants person - I prefer dresses and skirts - but when I'm feelin' lazy, I don't wanna worry about sitting like a "lady" and all that BS soooo yeah.  TIP:  Try wearing jeggings with comfy sweaters/cardigans or cute leggings with oversized tops! Also, if you decide to go with the latter, please refrain from exposing your entire booty even if you have a badonkadonk like J. Lo, haha.  

Alrighty, now let's move on to shoes and accessories.  If you're sporting a "tame" look, throw on some statement jewelry to add personality.  The sole society piece I've featured above adds a trendy touch to my otherwise conservative ensemble.  I chose to wear heels, but there are plenty of cute yet comfy shoe options.  When I'm feelin' lazy, I throw on wedge sneakers or boots for maximum comfort.

Top:  Madewell

Necklace:  c/o Sole Society ($34.95)

Shoes:  BCBGMaxAzria - borrowed

Skinnies:  Vince via TJ Maxx - old 

Bag:  Vintage Coach - borrowed

Banana Republic: Haul Post and Review

Alrighty guys, I gotta be real with ya'll.  I did a LOT of damage these last few weeks. After-Christmas sales are the BEST, and I definitely took advantage of all the incredible deals online and in-stores.  I stocked up on a lot of wardrobe must-haves, but I have no regrets.  I got a lot of amazing pieces for crazy low prices.  Anywho, for today's post I'll be reviewing items I got from Banana Republic.  I actually have to return 2 of the 4 things because I bought them online and there were issues with fittings.

1.  Colorblock Hacking Jacket (Originally $150, bought for $49.99) - I'm really happy with this purchase.  Although I'm a big fan of Banana Republic blazers, I'd never buy one for its full retail price.  WAY too expensive.  That's why I wait until big blowout sales like this ::grins::  Anywho, I'm excited to style this with a chambray top and skinny jeans.  

 2.  Dot Print Bow Skirt (Originally $59.99, bought for $41.99) -  I'm super bummed about this piece because it's SO CUTE but it just doesn't fit right.  I bought a size 0, but the waist was still too big.  Bizarre.  Returning this for sure.  BOO!

 3.  Plaid Blazer (Originally $150, bought for $59.99) - I'm obsessed with this plaid blazer. It's so cute, and it fits me like a glove.  A classic piece that I'll wear for YEARS to come!

4.  Heritage Silk Safari Blouse (originally $59.99, bought for $30) - This top looked so sleek and sophisticated when I was shopping online, but when I tried it on I looked like a scrubby janitor with the ugliest uniform EVER.  To be fair, I'm pretty sure it just looked bad on me.  The color seriously clashed with my skin tone.  Definitely returning this, haha.

I bought everything when BR was giving customers an extra 50% off on all sale items. Unfortunately that promotion is over, but they're still giving ya'll an extra 30% off online and in-stores (use code BRGOOD30) until 1/6.  

Work-friendly Attire: The Tweed Skirt

HAPPY NEW YEAR, ERRBODY! I hope you guys had an AMAZING night.  What did ya'll end up doing?  Anywho, for today's post I've featured a polished work-friendly look.  I'm going to start featuring more sophisticated looks geared for the young professional in the new year since I am getting older, BLAH! 

Anywho, Front Row Shop generously sent me this gorgeous skirt to review a couple of weeks ago.  I really like the material and cut, but the piece runs BIG.  I'm think I'm gonna try and tailor it by hand.  The belt helps hold the skirt up, but I still need more support!  I paired the piece with a solid blouse from Forever and threw on a fun pair of tights for personality! The hearts add a trendy touch.

Bag:  Prada - gifted

Booties:  c/o Deb

Skirt:  c/o Front Row Shop ($45)

Blouse:  Forever 21 - old ($20)

Blazer:  Hugo Boss via Off Saks Fifth - old

Tights: c/o PersunMall ($4.99)