BDIB: Animal Print (Rawr)

I've always been kind of apprehensive about wearing animal print... I attribute this to the combination of a young Ailyn's tendency to play 101 Dalmatians on repeat + her dislike for Cruella de Vil.  In the past, I've shied away from rocking animal print because though it might be classic, it doesn't always appear classy.  Other bloggers--especially those who treat animal prints like neutrals-- have inspired me to give animal print a fair shake.  Since I haven't fully committed to the trend though, I didn't want to purchase anything too expensive, so my first stop was Forever 21.  I picked up this feminine dress for under $25. Though I'm still a tentative user, I do find myself gravitating towards more animal prints since I've picked up this dress. Ann Taylor does a great job with animal prints; I'm a fan of their printed cardigan and skirts.

Dress: Forever 21 - September 2011 (may still be available in stores)

Earrings: Banana Republic Outlet
Belt: Thrifted
Boots: BP Runway Boot in Cognac, Nordstrom | shop

Polka Polka Friday

Polka dots are one of the true classics! It's a great go-to, timeless pattern. I built this outfit around the skirt and loved the idea of simple accents.

And in other news... I recently learned to polka. For real. Here's a great polka ditty you may enjoy.


Top:  Gap (old)
Skirt: F21 (old)
Belt:  Thrifted
Headband:  Gift from LC, Target
Earrings:  Hello Kitty, Claire's (I love these!)
Shoes: Versie Pump, Mossimo | shop

Frye Melissa Button Back Zip Boots

Oh snap - she's wearing white post Labor Day! Gasp..shock..sigh.

Lovely fall is here with so it's time to try out some new boots. I picked up a great pair at Nordstrom's during their annual anniversary sale. These boots are perfect for jean tucking and leaf crunching. I think these boots are cool, and this grey is an unexpected color. The Melissa Button also comes in a really pretty brown - which I prefer.

I do have a few issue with these boots. For instance, the buttons on the back are a bit hard to buckle, but with some brute finger force you're good to go. Also, if you have larger calves, you may have trouble zipping into this pair. I had struggled a bit...

Nevertheless, here's a rocking pair of boot and a clean cut blazer to jump start our fall.

Blazer: Polished Sateen Blazer, Ann Taylor | shop
Top: Seamless Scoop Cami, The Limited | shop
Shorts: F21
Boots: Melissa Button Back Zip in Grey, Frye | shop