OOTD: A holiday folly.

It's no secret that Groupon had a fantastic deal last week for $25 for $50 at Nordstrom Rack. "Great!", I thought. "Perfect for holiday shopping!" Ummm... yeah... about that.

I tried, readers. I really tried to find those holiday gifts. But none were to be found that would be good enough for my gift-recipients. I thought all was lost for said gift-certificate, until I spotted this little pretty in the racks. The Nanette Lepore Maddalena jacket seems to be sold out almost everywhere (might be from Fall '09?), and I remember this on Nordie's site a while back. Unfortunately, $500 is out of my budget for a blazer, but when it's on sale for $199 + $50 off? Yes, please. And I'm pleased (and a little shocked) to announce that this is my first ever Nanette purchase. I say shocked because I really don't know why I haven't bought something sooner...

Jacket: Nanette Lepore Maddelena Jacket

Top: Robbi + Nikki silk tank

Jeans: J Brand Lovestory jeans

Belt: Anthropologie Tea Rose belt

Shoes: Go Jane faux suede bow peeps

I took off the grosgrain belt that came with it and opted for something more fun, like this big rosebud belt. It just seemed to work better, and I'm just thinking about getting rid of the belt that came with it. And check out the back of this thing... I'm a bit in love! 

Now to finish that holiday shopping...

Budget Buster vs. Stylish Substitute

Thanks for all the entries so far to Week 1 of Fetching Fashions' giveaways! Enter if you haven't already. Next week will be equally as pretty, so make sure you stay tuned for that one, too. :)

While perusing the mall yesterday, I wandered into Dillards to look at shoes and found myself in the "Edge" department. I always forget about this little cranny of the mall but I'm always shocked to find cute and affordable items. So when I spotted this adorable blazer by Aryn K. ($99) (which looked equally cute on, p.s.)...

... I couldn't help but be reminded of this Gryphon jacket ($390) I love but can't afford.

The differences are there (no studs on the arm/more studs on the lapel) but they're still the same look for less. I have to say, the product pictures don't do the Aryn K. jacket justice, but in person it really is adorable. I was quite tempted, but I was just so upset about my Aldo debacle that I couldn't bring myself to shop (pity me, thanks). Also, it's abotu to get way too hot for a kaclet like this-- I'll be wearing linens and light cottons only come 1 or 2 more weeks. What do you think: a good substitute?

Just a little slip up...

As I've already revealed on my Twitter feed... I did something very, very bad. Here is a picture of my little slip-up:

Anthro's Immutable Jacket, on sale for $40, in blue

To be honest, it wasn't even a matter of "strength." It was sheer logic that led me to realize the following things:

1. This would be sold out pronto. And I haven't seen it in stores since the Fall.
2. It was $40!! That is cheap.
3. It will be great for chilly Vegas nights.
4. There was free shipping. Free shipping!

And let me tell you, I've said no to other things in the past 4 weeks! Lots of things! But it would have been plain dumb to pass this up, right?

(Ooops. I'm a bad, bad Justine. Sorry. :-\)

I'll be back later with a little product review that I'm quite excited about. Stay tuned.

eShakti order arrived!

So I believe my suspicions were correct-- the brogue thing was a questionable trend for you lovies. Which excites me, really, because it means I have a challenge now-- attempting to style my metallic flat oxfords for day and night to convince you (or at least make you think I'm less crazy) that the trend is actually pretty doable and pretty cute. Yay! Stay tuned for that one coming up, maybe this weekend.

On another (even exciting-er) note, my eShakti order arrived! The lovely ladies at http://www.eshakti.com/ let me pick which item I loved the most (a difficult feat) and sent me a free sample. How fun! Thank you, eShakti! Here are a few pics I snapped of this pretty lil' jacket. (PLEASE ignore the blotchy face, ugh... long day at work and makeup has officially melted off ma face.)

(pretty details, and I messed with the brightness to get the details better, so don't worry I don't have radiation poisoning on my neck)

Peplum! Preeeety!

Thanks, Rosa, for reminding me I need to tell ya'll about the site... hehe. The site is cool-- they have samples of their designs online and you have two options: buy standard sizing (0 to like 26 or something), or get a custom fit. Yes, it does cost a bit more but I don't think it's unreasonable (not sure of the exact fee). And I think it's worth it, because this thing fits like a charm. It's pretty simple-- fill out their custom measurements form and voila-- your perfectly tailored item comes to you in the mail, like, supahfast. (I've heard about a week after you order-- mine took slightly longer because of the holiday season and vacations) You can even have the dress length custom to what you want-- short or long, or if you want V neck instead of boatneck, they'll do it. Basically what nips/tucks you envision, they'll custom it to you.

My overall review: I love this thing. It's made of a very heavy wool, so I know it will be nice and warm for these next few months. The embroidered sequins are darling and not too flashy, so the jacket maintains a level of elegance. That peplum? So cute. I took that pic with my arms out to show you how much it gives me a waist and flares out at the right spot. It needs a little steaming, but that's easy. One thing I kicked myself for (bad Justine) was not being more careful about my measurements-- the arms are a tad too short, but not so much that it's unwearable by any means. That was totally my fault; I was hasty in my measuring.

I can't speak to their sizing otherwise (i.e. without custom tailoring, as I chose to custom mine), but they have a sizing chart on their site listing deets. Overall, I think I will for sure shop there again. Oh, and maybe sooner than later: Use code 5liKOr to get $20 off a $30 purchase! Nice! (and I've said it before, I'll say it again for any new readers... SRSLY check out their necklaces. Total Anthro inspired, 1/2 the price!) Happy custom shopping. :)

Cyber Monday... part deux?

I thought about it long and hard. I said, "Justine? It's a holiday. Indulge."

OK so I didn't really indulge, but I did take advantage of 20% off at a certain unnamed website for a certain someone who may or may not read this blog... and the free shipping at Forever 21.

Listen. I've just about OD'ed on F21. I've spent way too much money there, and it's all because I've been more into quantity over quality lately. (though, see my recent post on how I've been generally impressed with their quality...) I think it's a mixture of a budget and a desire to remake my wardrobe a bit, but I have to quit. For a while, at least. I should be saving up my money for nicer, classic items that are luxe and indulgent. (devil's advocate says: But that's what birthdays and Christmas are for, right?) No no no! Seriously, I'm done. Now. After this order that just went through.

(Is it a little bad of me to be a label-whore? My designer pieces' closet space are getting overtaken by F21 and Charlotte Russe. Ugh.)

At any rate, here is what I couldn't resist. Really, can you blame me?!

Above: Skirt, Satin Zip Skirt, $17.80
Jacket, Sequin 3/4 Sleeve Blazer, $32.80

That jacket is perfect for the relatively low-key holiday events I'll attend this year, and the skirt? Well, 1. It looks good with the jacket, and 2. It's adorable. 'Nuff said.

This is my less idiotic purchase. One of those very practical and classic purchases. So now I can feel a little better. :)

Pop of Peacock

So the last installment of recent ModCloth purchase is featured below. :) I think, overall, I'm generally happy with my first experience with ModCloth. The shoes didn't work, but buying shoes online is always risky... more on that topic tomorrow. At any rate, I think the things I bought were pretty dern close to the pictures and descriptions online. That's about all I ask for from a website. And I'm totally loving this blazer... the color is fantastic.

Vision in Viridian Blazer

Top: BCBG silk gold top
Necklace: Charlotte Russe "Fiona Paxton knock-off"
Jeans: Hudson bootcut

And, a good purchase is not complete without adorable details (read: BOWS!)

The pockets are bows! I couldn't get a good back shot, but on the website you'll notice the amazing bow detail at the middle-back! Loveeeeeeeee.

I love the peplum-style; I have a very boyish figure and anything that gives me a little figure or curve is a plus. This jacket flatters for sure. At a mere $44.99, it's worth every penny, and I plan on getting a lot of use out of her. The color, a pretty peacock teal, is bright yet neutral enough to pair with another fun color... you know, for extra drama. Yay drama!

OOTD... on the cheap!

Honestly, it wasn't intentional. It just so happens that the outfit I'm wearing today is less than $150! It sounds somewhat expensive, but when I think about what I wear, I think I normally average a lot more than that. Eeek. Anyway, here she is....

Jacket: F21 "winter white" jacket ($24.80)

Shirt: F21 ($13.80)

Necklace: Francesca's ($18)

Jeans: AE super skinny jeans ($39.50)

Shoes: super-old Gianni Binnis (probably like $60...)

OK so I lied a little. It's $156. Whatever. And who knows! Maybe those shoes were cheaper. Dillards always puts that brand on sale for 40% off. The point is... ok well I'm not sure what the point is here, lovies, but it does remind me that I can make a super-cute outfit out of Forever21 pieces! Yep, that's the point. Even though their skirts/dresses make me look like I'm working a corner, some of their pieces are just dandy. Yep.

Its heeeerreeee!

I apologize ahead of time if this post contains numerous typos or generally makes no sense, as I just spent the last 3 hours racking my brain over a long and arduous test. (p.s. I just pressed the BACKSPACE button about 500000 times just for that one sentence. Ugh.) But it's done! One less thing on the checklist of get-me-back-to-school-NOW.

But. I got my BB Mia tote yesterday in the mail... Here are pics and an OOTD!

OK first thing's first. The purse! It is very sophisticated-- there is a vintage-tote feel to it in person, and it's just what I hoped for. The grey is gorgeous and the pattern is pretty and fun. I'm lovin' it!

Next, deets on the outfit: Forever 21 paisely ruffle tank, AE super skinny jeans, Juicy Couture tiered-sleeve jacket, Etsy necklace (thejewelrybar) and MICHAEL Michael Kors dual-metallic pumps. Here is an up-close of the Juicy jacket... I love love LOVE this thing. Its made of a soft wool and has a cute little tie belt that creates a great waist-line. I tied it around the back today because I wanted to showcase the tank, but it does look nice belted. And the brass/gold buttons are very rich looking. Sigh. Fab-oo.

Going for good Texas barbeque tonight with some friends... I'm pumped! However, I will not be wearing this dry clean only jacket for barbeque. Smart idea, no? :)

OOTD: pretty little details get me everytime

I bought this jacket from Nordstrom's TBD about 2-3 years ago during the Christmas season. I remembering thinking it was so incredibly pretty and feminine. The tag on the back is strange and doesn't give me a clue to the designer, so I couldn't tell you who this is by. But whoever it is sure pays attention to detail! It reminded me of an Anthropologie item, and I remember getting it, taking it home with me to my parent's house, and having them wrap it up as one of my gifts. Love at first sight. :) Here, I paired it with a White House/Black Market necklace, a Limited top, and my Rich and Skinny boyfriend jeans...

OOTD and review

I think I'm making up for my lack of October posting in the last few days of the month. Oh well!

Here is my OOTD, which feature's Anthropologie's Short and Sweet Jacket in green (by Tabitha):

I posted a picture of it both open and closed, and by the look on my face, you may be able to tell which one I prefer. I love this jacket, but (for me), it does NOT work closed. Not only does it scrunch on my boobies, the ruffles don't fall correctly for it to look pretty. In addition, I bought a size up on this one. My usual 0 was way too small in the arm/shoulder area, and despite my small chest, was almost impossible to clasp shut. This is a 2. And honestly, if I had to, I could have even bought a 4 and been ok. The reviews online seem to say the same. So if you're buying sight-unseen online, size up.

...but EEEEKKK it's so cute! Loves! :)

p.s. Sorry about my crummy pictures. They either seem too dim, too blurry, or just not good quality. This one is an iPhone (duh), so it's not going to be the best. But I bought my digital camera not too long ago hoping it would be a big winner, just to find out it's a disappointment (and I'm $350 lighter. Ugh). Totally jealous of you super-nice-fancy-camera people with professional looking shots!

Because I love you all.

Chloe, never say I didn't do anything for ya. :)

Forever 21 "winter white" jacket

Aaaaannndddd.... I'm a married woman!!!!

Winter-White want

This jacket could be terribly disastrous....

or terrifically amazing!

Forever 21 Articulate jacket

I just love this, but I'm a little worried about a white jacket. 1) is it seasonal? Can I really do this for the Fall? I know I don't like rules, but this is a lot of white. 2) will I get red wine/barbecue/anything I might eat all over it? These worries aside, the details of this jacket are too adorable for words. If this were in charcoal grey, there would be no questions. Hands down, MINE. But... I might wait for better judgment to set in. Thoughts?

Obsessions du jour

I think I'll kick off my first real post with some current obsessions of mine. (Then maybe I'll tell you more about me, but I like to be mysterious. So we'll see. Heh.)

This is the time of year when I start getting sick of summer and I'm looking ahead to Fall. However, this is a problem for me, lovies. Because I live in Dallas. And it's hot as hell. And my lanky arms won't be seeing a sweater until Christmas time (if I'm lucky). But I've never been one to care about my comfort when it comes to fashion, no-no-no. I am loving Fall blazers right now, and I plan to get my hands on one soon. Like this weekend soon. Here are some options from the ever-amazing Anthropologie.

I just love this color... it's like a marigold, and its made out of that super soft slub that has been so hot (ahem, I don't mean sweaty hot... though I suspect I will be if wearing anytime soon) for some time. Moto-jacket? Yes, please. Plus, I'm really not a leather girl. I could be if I tried, I suppose, but it's just too expensive (and the fake stuff can look just that... fake). Perfect Fall jacket, I do believe. Or....

OK, I love this one, too! Grey is versatile, and this jacket really looks like it could be paired with almost anything. And bows... oh, bows. I love you. A cinched waist helps me a lot (I'm a bit of a stick with no curves), and the zipper is no-fuss. But, reviews say it wrinkles a lot. Hmm. Do I mind wrinkles? I don't know. Am I indecisive? Yes... and there are more options. Here's another:

Purple! Oh how I love me some purple (color of my wedding... basically the only color. P.s., this leads me to a tangent: for any of those who have ever gotten married, are you not totally frustrated by the question, "So what are your colors?" like you need 15 of them. Purple is just fine, ok?! sorry.). And ruffles... I have two (going on three) of the same exact sweater (in black and tan) that I wear alllll the time that have pretty, dainty ruffles down the front. I need more ruffles. And the one to throw them allllll off? Get'a load of this baby-->

I have to confess to you, my lovies. I am a trend WHORE. Self-proclaimed, will-work-for-fashion, trend slut. I've tried all my life to buy classic pieces (trench, button down shirt, little black dress), but I sadly own none. So this jacket is almost definitely going to be in my Fall repertoire, even though a consignment shop may see her in 2 years. Bleh. Whatever.

But for those of you who see this post (hello?! hellloooo?), what do you think? I have to pick one (for now), so who's the winner? And if I hear echoes, I'll still be sure to let ya'll know what happens. 'Cuz I'm nice like that.