Wish List Wednesday: Work Dresses

Since law students typically work in the summer, I have an extensive collection of work-appropriate sleeveless dresses in bright colors. Now that I have a job that will continue through the school year, I'm realizing that I need to expand my cool-weather work wardrobe. While I generally have a cardigan or a blazer with me, I don't like feeling like I can't take it off. Keeping in mind the cold front that's promised to arrive in town this weekend, I've been on the hunt for long-sleeve work dresses that I'll be comfortable wearing without a blazer.

Annie Griffin's Carson dress is described as the "ultimate work-to-dinner dress this fall" and I agree.  I love that it has 3/4 length sleeves and a flattering tie waist. Plus, the pretty silk comes in a variety of patterns, perfect for when I end up buying multiples.

Banana Republic's Gemma wrap dress is a perennial favorite. I bought it last year in black and white stripe, but I really love this crimson color for fall. The deep v-neck is flattering, but isn't so low that it's inappropriate at your desk and looks really pretty with a statement necklace. Plus, the knit fabric is comfortable and stays wrinkle free even after a long day at work.

DKNY's Berry ruffle animal print dress- The darker coloring and long sleeves make this look perfect for fall. The animal print keeps it fun, but the modest higher collar and ruffles make it work-appropriate. I bet this would look great with black tights and black ankle boots (plus, it's on sale!).

Sunday in Brooklyn's Fit and Flare mini- I love anything cobalt blue, and especially a cobalt work-worthy dress. I love the fit and flare silhouette of this dress and think it would look fun belted or with leopard pumps. My one concern is that since they call it a 'mini' it may be too short for work for some people - not much of a problem for me at 5'2"!

Tinley Road's stretch wool dress- I love a good sheath dress in the summer, and this dress from Tinley Road looks like the fall appropriate equivalent of my favorite warm weather dresses. It comes in both grey and black, and will be the perfect basic backdrop for my new Loren Hope tassel necklace!

JB by Julie Brown black and ivory scallop print 'Allison' stretch jersey dress- I have a weakness for these faux-wrap dresses- the band at the waist is so flattering, but doesn't require fussing with a tie all day like some true wrap dresses do. The black and white pattern is fun without being too over the top for my office and would easily go with tights, boots, and a blazer for when it turns really cold.

Any of these dresses look like something you would wear to work? I love that there are more long-sleeve options appearing as it cools down!

Wish List Wednesday: Ballet Flats

As much as I'm in love with my new job, one thing that's weird to me is the much more relaxed dress code. I went from wearing either a suit or a business dress and blazer to working somewhere that tennis shoes are acceptable office attire. While working somewhere so much more laid back is a great change of pace, it's a little weird adjusting to the fact that I could literally wear jeans to work if I wanted to. So my heels have gone back in their boxes and I need more casual selection of work shoes. The one caveat of the dress code is that your shoes have to have a strap on the back, which knocks out a lot of my sandals. Plus, with fall coming on, I have to think about putting them away anyway. Ergo, my new shoe of choice: ballet flats. Pretty, polished, comfortable and they keep me from devolving too far into the casual choices!

I already have this pair of printed bow Viv flats from J.Crew, but I wanted to share them because I love them! They come in other colors and patterns, with and without a bow, and are perfect for dressing up jeans or pairing with a  skirt. 

Joan and David Collection Mitzie Flat- I love the fancy brocade-like pattern and the gold heels on this pair- plus the neutral color palette will pair with so many things in my closet (and they're on super sale!!)

Modcloth's Refined Stride Flat- a truly ballet-esque ballet flat with fun lace-up details at the ankle. These probably wouldn't go with as much in my closet, but at less than $40, I may get them anyway.

Tory Burch Tumbled Leather Ballet Flats - I used to have these in both tan and black, but my semester in London running around over the cobblestones ruined them. Needing non-heel shoes for work reminds me that I should order another pair of these in plenty of colors!

Loeffler Randall's Milla Haircalf Flats from SHOPBOP- scallops and pink, what more could a girl want? For those days when you need a pick-me-up, what's better than bright, fancy feet.

Salvatore Ferragamo Varina Perforated flats- these are a bit of a splurge, but I love my Ferragamo heels so much,  I can't help but want the flats. And especially in this gorgeous royal blue color!

Any of these flats tickle your fancy? Do you ever have trouble balancing looking work appropriate while also not overdressing (I know I have trouble with the latter!)?

Wish List Wednesday: Trench Coats

Fall is definitely on it's way if the past few days of weird temperatures and pouring rain are any indication! The cooler temperatures have me thinking about how I'm going to cover up when the go even lower in the coming weeks. One piece I always love is a trench coat. They're classic, but plenty of designers offer fun twists - fun patterns, fabrics, and colors. I have three already (black, khaki, and red) but love them so much I'm tempted to add a fun one from the selection below to my growing collection!

Calvin Klein Double Breasted Trench Coat. When fall brings those yucky, rainy days what could be better to cheer you up than this cherry-red number?

Burberry London Double Breasted Trench Coat. Burberry is THE name in trench coats. Theirs are expensive, but absolutely the authority on classic design and quality - They're out of my student budget right now, but I plan on treating myself to one when I get my first big-girl job!

Ann Taylor's Edgy Trench takes the classic trench silhouette and adds leather accents to take it up a notch. The black and khaki go with everything, but are far from boring!

Ann Taylor Loft's Cotton Plaid Trench-I'm a sucker for plaid in the fall, and I love this lightweight option from Loft. It's muted color palette keeps it from being too loud, but is still a step up from a solid black.

Ralph Lauren Slim-Fit Cotton Trench Coat. One problem I sometimes have with trench coats is that they're cut too wide or too long for my frame. I'm tempted to try the slimmer lines of this trench and add this more tailored classic khaki one to my closet.

Rachel Zoe's Christopher Tweed Trench Coat. This coat is probably my favorite of the ones I've seen for this fall season. The tweed and leather combination could carry me all the way through to March when the temperature (finally!) comes back up. I wish they hadn't sold out of my size or I'd have this on with my black Frye boots and tights!

Does anyone else love trench coats as much as I do? I think they're the perfect transition piece for those awkward summer to fall temperatures and, in the right material, carry right on through winter!

Wish List Wednesday: Fall Booties

Sorry I haven't posted in a while- I just got moved to my new apartment and with all the other students moving in, it took a while for the cable company to come install my internet. Regardless, now I'm all settled in, have wifi, and can go back to thinking about my back-to-school wardrobe. It's only in the 60s here today, which makes me start thinking about putting up my shorts and getting ready for fall. I'm obsessed with the high-heeled ankle booties that are popping up all over the place and can't wait to wear them with everything from dark skinnies and oversized sweaters to my chambray shirtdress and leggings. Here are some of the styles I've been looking at:

Kate Spade's Lanise Boots. Love at first sight. Who couldn't love ankle booties with a bow on the back? Especially someone like me, with a weakness for Kate Spade shoes.

Banana Republic Meelia Chelsea Boot:These pretty babies have memory foam inside, ensuring that even the 3 3/4 inch heel won't be hurting you at the end of the day.

Cole Haan's Cassidy Buckle in Sequoia: I almost bought these last year (didn't have a buckle) and they were the most comfortable boots I tried on during the fall season. I regretted not buying them when I had the chance (only one pair left! They were my size!) but looks like I have a second chance this year.

Livvy bootie by French Connection from Sole Society. I like the slightly Western look of these booties and that the heel is covered in the same suede as the boot itself. I also love that they have loops at the top to help pull them on and off- there's nothing worse than booties that you have to struggle with.

Tory Burch Margaux Brushed Bootie: I bought last year's version of these at Nordstrom Rack (for $50!) and love them. It's been so hot this summer there hasn't been an opportunity to try to work them with a sundress or anything, but I cannot wait to wear them in a few weeks to football tailgates. Tory shoes are always well made and I love the elastic panels that keep these from slipping.

Are you loving the high heeled ankle booties as much as I am? 

Wish List Wednesday: Work Tote

This past week I got offered an internship for this fall semester (more on that coming soon!) and realized that my current work bag just isn't going to cut it any more. I've gotten by the past few years using my favorite Longchamp Le Pliage tote that I've carried since high school- but eight years down the road it's starting to look a little too well loved. And as I get closer to graduating and having a real job, I've realized that it's time to invest in a nicer, more adult work tote that will help elevate me from intern to associate. I generally choose black for my suits, so most of these totes stick to that color, but are available in others if black isn't your thing!

Kate Spade's Cedar Street Medium Harmony. At 13.3 inches wide, this tote is just wide enough to fit my laptop. I love that the bag is super basic and unassuming but very well made- I know with KS I don't have to worry that my bag is going to tear up before my internship is over.

Loeffler Randall's Walker Tote from Piperlime.  I love the interesting but still neutral print on the front of this bag. It amps up an otherwise plain work tote, but doesn't cross the line into being so distracting that it's not work appropriate. It's also slightly larger than the KS bag above (so I can stuff even more into it!)

GiGiNewYork's Gates Satchel. I love love love the color blocking on this bag (which also comes in four other color options!) At 13 3/4 inches wide, it's just wide enough for my laptop and since it's five inches deep, I can stuff all my files into the remaining space. It also has an interior zip pocket as well as slip pockets, ensuring my cell phone won't be lost and crushed on the bottom. And it's monogrammable! Am I waxing poetic yet? This bag may be the winner!

Coach's The Borough Bag in Colorblock Boarskin Leather. A simple bag done real really well. I love the color blocking here as well - no need to worry that it won't go with whatever suit-heels combo I'm sporting that day. Coach describes it as having an "accordion-like interior" which means pockets!

Fossil's Vintage Re-Issue Tote. I love the woven leather and that Fossil says it will fit laptops up to 15 inches- I think this bag may be perfect for my sister in her new job. I would probably put this tote away later in the fall since I feel like the woven style makes it look more summery, but it would make a great bag for summer months and look perfect with the tan Tory Burch Reva flats I live in.

Michael Kors Fulton - Large Quilted Leather Tote. I included this tote for another brown option, but I just don't think that I'd invest in a tan one first (just personal taste- I wear so much black.) But it's a gorgeous bag- I love the quilting and the dainty chain straps.

Tory Burch's Robinson Double-Zop Tote. I love that this tote has both top handles and a longer optional strap for those moments when I need another hand free (for that oh-so-essential cup of coffee). It has plenty of pockets and is 14 inches wide, so it will easily fit all the essentials - laptop, files, and thermos!

Where do you shop for work totes? I feel like by the time I stuff my laptop and files in mine, I need a huge bag- but I still want it to be pretty in additional to functional!

Wish List Wednesday: Workout Wear

This summer, one of the things I'm doing for myself is training to run a half-marathon. I've always been a runner, but mostly just ran track for school and for leisure when I get stressed. But I've always wanted to run a half-marathon. I downloaded an app on my phone called Log My Run and then chose a beginner/moderate half training program. It's great to keep me on track and motivated. Another way I've been keeping myself excited is by treating myself to some new workout clothes. It's hard to be thrilled with throwing on the same black Nike shorts and college tee day after day, so I've been in the market for some new fun things to wear. Here's some of the items that have caught my eye:

I just bought a pair of these Lululemon Wunder Under pants a few weeks ago. I always said I wouldn't buy lulu- but I went with a friend, found a pair on sale, and figured I would try them. Best. Leggings. Ever. I seriously couldn't tell if I'd lost weight from the running I've been doing or if the pants are just that good (I think it's the pants!) I've been wearing them non-stop. The lion fabric is super stretchy and thick but breathable. I'll be buying them all next time I see them on sale.

For a more affordable option, I also like these skinny yoga pants from Aerie. They come in a variety of lengths, which is perfect for shorties like me whose leggings are usually bunched around the ankle (as well as you lucky tall girls who need extra length!)

I love the fun pattern on the Ditsy Stripe Balance Capri from Athleta. The parade of sold black leggings, capris, and shorts gets a little old sometimes - why not try a fun pair of blue floral capris?

This fun tank is Old Navy Active's goDRY Graphic Tank. For something I'm going to sweat in, I love how affordable these are (various quotes range from $8-$17!) For that price, I can get one for every day of the week.

I'm loving this Colorblock Chi Tank, also from Athleta. It will layer well with my floral sports bra in those colors, but is super breathable and made with breathable, "Unstinkable" technology - perfect for running in the currently 90 degree weather!

This draped cross back tank from Trina Turk is probably my favorite item I found. I love the cross bank and the cheery pattern. I'm not quite bold enough to go for the matching leggings, but I think the tank would be the perfect accompaniment to my collection of black leggings.


How do you keep yourself motivated to work out? Would these fun prints and colors help you get in the mood to do a few miles? I know they help me!

Kate Spade Swimwear

Kate Spade has just announced that it will be expanding to include swimwear. The collection won't be unveiled until this fall, but until then, here's a sneak peek:

photo: Kate Spade

I loooove pretty much everything Kate Spade puts out and am so excited to see them bring their fun prints, bows, and overall flair to the swimwear market. I'm already a fan of this bow-decked bandeau two-piece.

Read more here at Lucky Mag.

How excited are you about Kate Spade's expanding collection?

Wish List Wednesday: Shower Curtains

For this week's wish list, I'm still on the lookout for apartment items, specifically a new shower curtain. Before I left for London, I let my little sister take the blue and green paisley shower curtain I had in my last apartment. I had meant it to be a temporary fix for the fact that couldn't find one she liked, but it appears that it's taken permanent residence in her bathroom and I'll be searching for another. Obviously I hate shopping and this is a real hardship for me. I'm really not a fan of the retro brown and white tile in the bathroom in my new place, so I want something bright and fun to distract from it. I also don't want to spend a ton of money because I tend to get tired of things (which is fine, since by then my sister has decided to 'borrow' whatever it is anyway). Here are a few of the options I've found poking around online:

Pottery Barn's Pom Pom Trimmed Shower Curtain is one of the first ones I found in my search. I love the fun of the pom poms, but I think the plain white may be a little too dull for what I'm looking for.

Danica Studio's Prim and Proper Shower Curtain is a lot of fun. The bows are so girly and whimsical. But again, I think I need more color- maybe I could monogram it in hot pink?

I absolutely love this Stepped Chevron Shower Curtain from Jonathan Adler, but at $122 I'm really not sure I want to spend that much.

West Elm's Stripe Shower Curtain looks like a good option. The stripes are fun and preppy, but classic and I can totally see it with a big pink monogram to add an accent color.

Trina Turk's Coastline Ikat Shower Curtain is soooo pretty. I love that it's got multiple bright colors to pull from for towels and accessories. Plus, it's more reasonably priced at $59.99 and available at Macy's, so I can use my mom's coupons! This may be the winner.

Where do you shop for fun, affordable home accents? I love having pretty things, but I just can't justify some of the prices out there on my student budget!

Wish List Wednesday: Budget Friendly Furnishings

On Monday, I got to pick up the keys to my new apartment. After spending the semester in London living with four other people in a small flat and then spending May and June at my parents sharing a bathroom with my little brother while I looked for a place to live, I am more than ready to be back in my own space. I love my family and my friends, but sometimes it's nice to just lay on the living room sofa with a novel on a Saturday and read the whole thing with no interruptions. Pure bliss. I'm also excited to have more space than I have previously. I've always had a one bedroom (or two and used one as an office) but now I'm going to have an entire duplex! It'll be nice to have space to spread out. I'm going to paint the whole place before I move in (the last tenant was an art student who made crazy color choices) so I'm not making the shift there just yet. But while I'm gearing up for the move, I've been looking for new furniture, bedding, and decorations to make the space my own. I was surprised by how many cute, affordable options there are available right now- just perfect for my student budget. Here's a spotlight on two of my favorite lines I found: Happy Chic by Jonathan Adler for JCPenny and the Threshold collection at Target.

Happy Chic by Jonathan Adler Crescent Heights Collection: I love the navy patterned rug that anchors this gorgeously done living room.

Jonathan Adler Happy Chic Bleecker Dining Room Table, Bleecker Side Chairs, Chevron Wool Rectangular Rug. Fun end chairs and a bright rug punch up a traditional dining room table.

Jonathan Adler Happy Chic Elizabeth Comforter Set and Accessories. I'll have one of everything from the Elizabeth collection. What could be more relaxing than these pretty shades of blue?

Threshold Slipper Chair in Navy Floral. Target has definitely stepped up it's home collection in recent years. I feel like this patterned slipper chair could just as easily be from Pottery Barn -- but this version is as cute and budget friendly!

Threshold X-Stool: Available in six patterns to match and color scheme, these stools will be perfect under my library table against a wall most of the time, but then be easily brought out to provide extra seating for guests. (And they're on sale!)

Threshold Windham 2 Door Cabinet with Center Shelves: For my new apartment, I know I'll need a new piece on which to put my television. I love the fun colors this cabinet comes in and that there's both open and closed storage options - the center shelves are perfect for my DVR and router, and the closed shelves will be great for storing DVDs etc.

Threshold Kilim Square Pouf: It seems like poufs are everywhere this season, but with prices ranging up to hundreds of dollars, many just aren't a student budget option. I think this one (also available in other patterns) are much closer to a price that a student like me can justify spending.

Any of these items coming to your apartment? Where else do you love for budget friendly home shopping?

Fourth of July Weekend Sales!

In case you needed something else to celebrate this weekend besides, you know,  America, here's a list of awesome sales to shop:

• Ann Taylor has a variety of sales going on, but all are for a 'limited time only' (no specific date, so shop early!)
• Anthropologie has their sale on sale - an extra 20% off with code BUZZ20 (shop my picks here)
• Banana Republic is offering 40% off in-stores and online with code BRJULY
• Bloomingdale's is offering 20-65% off in-stores and online
• C.Wonder's Semiannual sale includes items up to 70% off
• Gap's summer sale includes deals on plenty of basics
• J.Crew is offering 30% off with code JULY
• Kate Spade has their sale on sale - an extra 25% with code MORESALE
• Ann Taylor LOFT - $25 dresses, $6 tops, $15 sandals
• Old Navy- plenty of tanks and tees for under $10
• Zappos has a number of items included in their Fourth of July sale

Which sales will you be hitting this holiday weekend?

Wish List Wednesday: Anthro's Sale!

Starting today, Anthropologie's already marked down items are an additional 20% off (use code BUZZ20 at checkout!). I'm always a sucker for Anthro's clothes, particularly when they're on sale. But take an additional 20% off and my cart fills up fast! I'm loving all the breezy tanks, the omnipresent peplums and fun floral prints. A lot of things are selling quickly, so there are limited sizes available in many of the items - but if you're lucky enough to score your size, it's a great deal! Here's a few of the things in my basket:

Pure and Good Shadow Floral Ruched Leggings - I'm training for a half marathon right now and I think the extra effort deserves some extra cute gear. If I'm stepping up my workout game, I should step up my workout wardrobe, right?

Deluna Cardigan- An out-of-the-ordinary cardigan for looking special without special effort.

Shimmered Garden Dress. I love the summery oranges and blues as well as the subtle jewels around the neckline and on the bodice.

Gemme Dress- Because diamonds are a girls best friend, why not wear a dress printed with them? So much fun.

Clovelly Peplum Top - Scallops are my favorite and the back cutout on this pretty blouse provides an unexpected touch when you exit a room.

Portia Maxi Dress- I've been on the lookout for a printed maxi and this fits the bill with it's pretty tulip print and subtle orange sequin detailing.

Dotted Silk Tank- I think this top would be perfect for any Fourth of July plans this weekend! It's fun without being fussy and will pair perfectly with white jeans for a patriotic look.


Are you as addicted to Anthropologie's sale as I am? Any of these items showing up in your basket?