2013 - Happy Halloween!

Happy Halloween!

Here's a look back at some of my favorite Halloween looks! What are your favorite costumes?

Halloween: Jane the Riveter
Halloween: Flashback - Looks That Inspire
Halloween with Live Long & Classy

How to Pack: Look by Look

I love visiting new places, but packing is probably one of the most arduous tasks, especially for an international trip. However, it's always worth the effort and planning for a great destination. For a few weeks "G" and I are going to Thailand on holiday.

Here is a quick preview of some looks that I'll be wearing over the trip.

Kai Turns ONE!

Happy (belated) birthday to our favorite curious, mischievous, and sweet little girl!

Our family spent last weekend celebrating her very first birthday, which included strawberry shortcake from an amazing bakery, as well as a few costume changes for the birthday girl -- she does, of course, take after her aunties in the style department.

Happy birthday, Kai! We love you!

Linked up to the Monday Mingle.

Banana Republic Fran Pleated Skirt

This skirt is a really lovely, bold color!  It definitely attracts a lot of compliments.  It also works really well as a transition piece into the cooler months; the rich, yet bright shade allows you to wear this skirt year round.

Sunnies: Prada | shop
Earrings: Kate Spade | shop
Top: Loft | similar
Skirt: Banana Republic Fran Pleated Skirt | shop
Shoes: Ann Taylor | shop
Bag: Coach Saffiano Tote | shop -- reviewed here


Linked up to Monday Bloom, the Pleated Poppy & Two Thirty-Five Designs.

Loft Floral Scroll Print Sweater Review

Fit: I went with my typical Loft size, and it fits just fine.  If you're between sizes, I'd size up, especially because I feel like it's a touch short in the torso area.  Comes in petite and regular sizing.
Quality: 55% Cotton, 40% Viscose, & 5% Wool
Style: The pattern here really pops -- even more so than the photos would indicate.  Also I really like this weight for the fall weather; it's not a thick cable knit, but is substantial enough to keep you warm, yet light enough to layer without too much bulk. 
Price: $59.50, but lately there have been a lot of 40% off sales which puts this bad boy around $36.
Bottom Line: I'm a fan, and I like the style.  I do think it'll go on further sale, so I'll wait for a better deal, but if my size sells out, I won't be too bummed out.


Sunnies: Prada | shop
Earrings: Loft (old)
Top: Banana Republic Oxford Shirt | shop
Loft: Loft Floral Scroll Print Sweater | shop
Jeans: JCrew Toothpick Jean | shop
Shoes: Ann Taylor | shop

Linked up to Monday Bloom & the Monday Mingle.

Target Merona Women's Short Sleeve Tie-Wasit Shirt Dress

This definitely feels like one of the last time that I can get away with bare legs and sandals.  I am excited about cozy sweaters, fuzzy slippers, and hot cocoa, but I'll definitely miss the ease of just sliding on a pair of sandals before I head out the door.

Sunnies: Prada | shop

Bag: Coach Saffiano Tote | shopDress: Target Merona Women's Short Sleeve Tie-Wasit Shirt Dress | shop
Coat: Gap Denim Jacket | shop
Belt: Guess | similar
Sandals: Target | similar

Gap Skinny Mini Khakis in Cleveland

Work brought me to Cleveland and to one of my best friends from college!  We had a fun day brunching at a delicious cafe with some truly amazing jam, checking out the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, and just enjoying the beautiful weather.


Sunnies: Prada | shop
Earrings: Kate Spade | shop
Top: Gap | shop
Pants: Gap Skini Mini Skimmer Khakis | shop
Shoes: Gentle Soul Bay Unique | shop

Linked up to the Pleated Poppy.

Dressed to the Nines: Black Tie

Snaps! It's black tux and fabulous dress night! "G" and I were all decked out for a charity ball. Oh man --- it's been a little while since I've been this dressed up, but what fun!

I found this fantastic dress from Macy's last year. I just love the sweetheart neckline and the draping in the front of the dress. I think this shape is extremely flattering to many shapes, and feels so comfortable. I'm obsessed with this number. I found this great silver clutch thrift shopping around town and paired it with a pair of silver flats.

"G" is looking handsome in his tailored tuxedo. G did a good amount of research on his piece trying to figure out if he should purchase or rent a tux. He ultimately purchased this well fitting, beautiful suit.

When's the last time you dressed up? Thanks for reading!

Dress:  Xscape; | shop similar

Shoes: Silver Flax, Nine West | shop

Clutch:  Vintage | shop similar

Earrings:  Limited | shop similar

Ring:  Express | shop similar

Dashing "G"

Tux:  Jos. A. Bank, slim fit | similar

Shoes: Cole Haan | shop

Drink: Woodford

Linked up to Monday Bloom.

Salvatore Ferragamo Varina Review

Black Tee & Suede Booties

New booties!

No matter what season or occasion, black is always in style. I love the timeless look of black on black. This outfit is inspired by my new boots from Steve Madden. I love these shoes!

Fashion Fundamental:  Black Tee. 

It's probably one of the most essential basics for any closet. Basics like this are perfect for keeping your look simple, clean and chic.

Thanks for reading!

Shirt: Gap T | shop similar

Skirt: Express Black | similiar

Boots: Steve Madden | shop

Watch: Runway Twist, Michael Kors | shop

Purse:  Crossbody, Kate Spade | shop

Linked up to the Pleated Poppy.

Ann Taylor Ikat Dress

Hello all - the weather is starting to cool down a lot here in KC, but some days I've still been getting away with open-toed shoes and skipping the coat. :)  Here's to those last few days of Indian Summer!

Dress: Ann Taylor | similar
Sunnies: Prada | shop
Belt: JCrew | similar
Earrings: Kate Spade | shop
Shoes: Enzo Angiolini | similar
Sunnies: Prada | shop

Linked up to the  Monday Mingle.

Space Beautification: Wall Collection

Pinterest toothpaste technique

Voilà!

I love home projects and have always admired those framed, photo displays on the wall. Luckily, my family was in town and the siblings helped me created this concept using some of my most favorite photos (Gaga poster, hand drawn comic from my BFF, city maps, etc.). We had a blast putting together this puzzle combination, and Dad hung them for me! Good thing Dad of JaneSquared was in town to help!

We also learned a nifty lifehack/trick from Pinterest -- when hanging a frame with an odd or tricky hinge, you can use toothpaste! Place a dot of toothpaste on the hooks on the back of a frame. Then, you place it against the wall and you know exactly where to put the nails! Win win.

What projects are you working on this Fall?

Shirt:  Buffalo Plaid, Hollister | shop similar
Jeans:  Rockstar Jeans, Old Navy | shop

Bass Wayfarer Penny Loafer Review

Camping!

*Photos courtesy of Larimore Photography.

A few weekends ago, G & I went camping with friends. I have not been in years, and it was a great time. We rode bikes, boats and had s'mores. I mean.. anything with s'mores is a perfect combination. I also have to hand it to "G" -- he can make some pretty mean meals on the back on his '66 pickup truck. We ate very well with an electric hookup and a trusty skillet. Who knew you could have a delicious rueben in under 15 minutes?

Maybe the weather will hold out and we can go camping one more time... What do you think "G"?

Thanks for reading.

Shorts:  Midi Shorts, AE | shop

Shirt:  Vintage Tee, JCrew | shop

Scarf: Montana shop | shop similar

Sunnies: Foldable Ray-Ban | shop

Shoes: Sperry Topsiders | shop

Linked up to the Pleated Poppy and Two Thirty-Five Designs.