Midwest Cool

Later Thailand - it's back to the midwest for some classic cold! The family, G & I are hanging out at the Christmas tree farm [see Jane here]. I'm wearing one of my most versatile coats. I love this black trench and it's layering ability with a removable lining. It's surprisingly warm and light.

What coats are you wearing this season?

Jacket: Burberry  | shop

Boots: BP Runway Boot, Nordstrom  | shop similar

Dress: Merona, Target | shop similar
Scarf: Burberry London | shop
Bag: Marc by Marc Jacobs | shop

Linked up to Two Thirty-Five Designs.

Sunshine & Good Deals

For some reason, I never wear yellow. It's a color that I do not gravitate towards, but found a nice eyelet top on sale at Anthropologie, so I thought I'd give it a go. I'm digging it -- so, I'll be on the lookout for more!

Also, there seems to be deals every time I open my e-mail. I see promos from Loft, Ann Taylor, B. Republic, Crew, etc. Retailers are all about Fall style. And, Target just announced Phillip Lim -- his clothes are looking chic for men and women! #PhillipLimforTarget

I've been digital "window shopping" and have been eyeing another bright number -- this Fall jacket from Banana Republic in orange. It's really cute, so I'm waiting for a good deal.

What are you shopping for this fall?

Shirt:  Fieldbloom Peasant Blouse, Anthropologie | shop

Shorts:  Midi Shorts, AE | shop

Shoes:  Gray, Havianas | shop

Purse:  Crossbody, Kate Spade | shop

Shades: Foldable Ray-Ban | shop

Target Merona Women's Ponte Stripe Dress Review

FitFit: A bit too long on my 5'3" frame, but otherwise the fit is decently true to size.

Style: This comes in two different colors: the one I'm rocking here and a navy & red version.  The stripes are designed to flatter, but I'm not sure they work on me.
Quality: 76% Polyester, 20% Rayon, & 4% Spandex -- machine washable.  It's totally opaque, so it's unlined, but no lining is necessary.  This doesn't wrinkle very much, which I really appreciate.
Price: It currently retails for $27.99 at Target, which I feel like is a fair price for the quality of the dress, especially since you can get 20% off a purchase of $75+ at Target.com.
Bottom Line: I returned this dress.  I don't think it's actually that flattering on me, so I ended up returning.  Even though the quality is nice, I'd have to shorten the dress at the waist to maintain the stripe-y proportions of the dress.  For me, it really wasn't worth it, though I have seen this look really lovely on some other ladies.

You may have noticed that I've been posting a fair number of reviews, and that's because I've been doing a ton of online shopping recently -- it's gotten a little out of control, but I can't help but take advantage of the great end of season deals.  To be honest, though, I am returning the vast majority of my purchases.  Have you purchased any winners lately? :)


Sunnies: Prada | shop
Necklace: JCrew Factory
Dress: Target | shop
Shoes: Ann Taylor | shop

Linked up to Monday Bloom.

Feminine Eyelet Tank

Isn't Ailyn awesome? She does the best reviews. 

Today, I'm wearing a great fitting tank. This black eyelet from Gap reminds me of traditional, Mexican attire with the fit and pattern cutout in the front. I think this silhouette is particularly flattering on many shapes, and this tank is very sweet. I've also tried to pair this at work with a pencil skirt and cardigan. It has a similar effect in the office, feminine and flowy. Pieces like this are awesome because they are versatile in the office and on the weekends.

Top: Eyelet Tank, Gap | shop similar

Shorts: Roll up shorts, AE | shop

Shoes: Mossimo, Target | similar

Bag: Marc by Marc Jacobs | shop

Sunnies: Prada | shop

Watch: Runway Twist, Michael Kors | shop

Linked up to Two Thirty-Five Designs and the Monday Mingle.

Striped Frock and Flowers

Will is back in action!

Guess who's back on the blog?  It's Will...let's welcome him back to the party! It's always a great time when a best friend is in town. It's time for Mariah Carey songs, lots of wine and plenty of laughs. 

I had to pick a dress that fit my mood and reached for a new frock. From Mossimo, this dress is bright and cheery, plus it has pockets -- win win! I really love this dress and think it's easy to accessorize. So, I dug around my closet and discovered this gold, monogrammed belt. Sometimes you can find really awesome accessories when you least expect it. On a trip to St. Louis, I stopped in this crazy costume/thrift shop and picked up this gem! 

Nothing is better than a perfect day with your BFF & some fun style. Thanks for reading!

Dress:  Scoop Neck Pocket Dress, Mossimo, Target | shop

Shoes: Mossimo, Target | similar

Shades: Foldable Ray-Ban | shop

Belt: Thrifted | similar

Purse: Thrifted | similar

Linked up to Two Thirty-Five Designs.

Summer Travels + Tory Burch Flats

Oh hey there! I've been super busy with work and have been hopping around the U.S. visiting:  Hilton Head, Napa Valley, Lake Tahoe & Kalispell. It's been a pretty legit summer of travel! Next up? Thailand, but I'll have more on that later in the year.

In my travels I've been working to get better at packing essentials. I find myself reaching for a staple summer piece:   the maxi dress. It's a great choice for high style but, low maintenance packing. I also picked up these fabulous T. Burch flats that fit nicely into a carry on for sightseeing.

Are you hitting up any destinations this year? If so, what are you packing?

Shades: Ray-Ban | shop
Necklace: Target  | similar
Dress: JCrew | similar
Shoes: Reva Ballet Flats, Tory Burch | shop

Linked up to the  Monday Mingle.

Cancun: Part IV - Final Take

Fashion Fundamental:  silk tank

Wah wah... last day of Vacation. I miss the beautiful ocean...

I've heard some folks complain about the upkeep and maintenance of silk. I used to be part of that crew, but after some broader experience with the fabric -- I have learned how to love it. Yes, you have to dry clean it, but it's worth it. It helps make any outfit more glamorous and elegant. And, if I'm in a pinch -- I throw a silk shirt on the low/no-heat tumble in the dryer for a quick refresh or non-iron solution. A piece like this would be beautiful with a pencil skirt, under a blazer, cardigan, etc. Silk tank... need it!

Thanks for joining me in vacation fun. Check out part I, II & III.

Shout out to P from phiphi's blog for guest blogging on Jane Squared this week! I love sharing this creative space with fashion forward bloggers!

As I'm getting back to the real world, Ailyn is off having her vacation in Mexico City! 

Tank:  Silk Polka Dot Ruffle, JCrew | similar

Shorts: JCrew | similar

Sandals:  Target (Summer 2010)

Earrings: Forever Audrey, Jewelmint | similar

Gap Flat Front Canvas Shorts Review

I have a hard time finding shorts that fit me well.  All summer I've been on the lookout, I've tried on shorts pretty much everywhere from Nordstrom and Ralph Lauren to Forever 21 and Sears. I even tried out Aili's much loved 3" chino short by JCrew or even Uniqlo's roll-up chino shorts will fit in the hips and thigh, but not in the waist.  Or vice versa.  

Aili suggested I try out Gap's shorts, but for some reason, I was skeptical... I'm not sure why, Gap bottoms haven't let me down in the past (with the exception of their skirts, which I think are way too short, but that's another blog post. :D), and the canvas shorts are a winner; pick 'em up for any price between $19.99 and $49.95.  It seems like prices may be better in stores. I also like Gap's boyfriend roll up shorts are a good alternative if you prefer a longer length.

I really enjoy these flat-front shorts because the pockets don't add any bulk, and they're ultra flattering.  They're made of 100% cotton & machine washable, and come in a variety of colors and patterns (ikat or tribal-inspired stripes) and inseams (petite at 3", regular sizing at 4", and tall at 5").

In my experience, they are a tad wrinkly (but nothing compared to my linen city mini by JCrew) and the front pockets--while quite slim and flattering--don't have much capacity.  Anyway, I'm a fan.

Shades: Prada | shop

Shorts: Gap | shop

Sandals: Target | shop

Bag: Rebecca Minkoff | shop

Cardigan: JCrew | similar

Plaid Cami: JC Penney | similar

Yellow Top: Swingy Sleeveless Polo, LOFT | shop

Nails: Bikini so Teeny & Meet me at Sunset, Essie | shop

Linked up at Real Girl Real Glam.

The Limited: Soft Tailored Jacket Review

I couldn't resist this fantastically vibrant blue tailored jacket from the Limited!  Cobalt is all the rage this season and This jacket fits similarly to a cardigan; plus, you can't beat this baby's versatility, as it's perfect for a busy day at the office, as well as a fun night out with the girls.

I'm a big fan of The Limited's workwear pants; they fit my body really well and manage to lengthen my legs.  Though I'm partial to skirts, the pants I'm rocking at work usually have a Limited tag.  The Drew Bootcut Pant cut is a particular favorite because it slims the figure and gives a clean, tailored look.

If you love this blazer as much as I do, then I want to let you know that The Limited is running a 50% off almost everything promotion with code: FRENZY + free shipping, no minimum on all orders.

Linked up with the Pleated Poppy, G-Rated, & the Transatlantic Blonde.

Coat:  Old Navy, 2010 

Jacket:  Soft Tailored Jacket in Cobalt, The Limited | shop

Shirt:  J.Crew

Pants:  Drew Bootcut Pant, The Limited | shop

Bracelet:  Lia Sophia

Shoes:  Orra, Nine West | shop

Earrings:  Target

ASOS Review: Good Meets Evil

I have been giving ASOS a go with their wonderful free shipping/free return, no minimum policy. I especially appreciate the "runway" view on their website which allows you to access a runway video. This is helpful because you can see how the clothes move, as well as the item's proportions as while the model walks the runway. Needless to say, I have big crush on ASOS. <3

For this ASOS review I wanted to juxtapose looks representing good (white) and evil (black). Each outfit has its own flavor, but which (if any) do you prefer?  As always, Ailyn and I love hearing your thoughts.

Good

The white dress is very sweet, but the real star of this look are these creamy blue platform pumps. I was surprised by how well they pair with other pieces already in my wardrobe; plus, they are very high--measuring in at a more than respectable 4.7" with a 1.1" platform (according to ASOS.com, at least)--yet strangely comfortable!

Evil

The black dress is interesting, and you've got to give ASOS points for putting out pieces that you don't see too often, but overall I'm not a fan of the look. This dress is a definite return as it wasn't the sophisticated but fun and sparkly dress that I was expecting; instead, it's a bit too revealing for my taste. 

Check out an ASOS success worn to the CNN Heroes Event last December. 

Good

Dress:  Lace and Mesh Midi Dress, ASOS | shop

Shoes:  Perfect Patent Platform Court Shoe in Blue, ASOS | shop

Earrings:  Target

Necklace:  Thrifted

Ring:  H&M

Bracelets:  Express (accessory review)

Evil

Dress:  Mini Dress with Sequin Mesh, ASOS | shop

Shoes:  Guess

Earrings:  Charlotte Russe

PFC 12: From Night to Day

PFC #12:  i am Khatu has challenged us to "Restyle a glamorous look that you would typically wear for a night-out-on-the-town into daytime casual wear. Easy right? Bonus points if you can restyle it for work!"


I got this crazy skull sweater in California last month, and thought it would be fun to transition this piece from night to day. It's different from most of the pieces I own, but branching out is always a good exercise.


Night Jane

I anchored both looks with this unique sweater and added some great wedge booties for a fun night out. Putting your hair up, rocking a pair of funky earrings and some bold lipstick makes for an easy trip to the clubs!


Day Jane
I turned down the volume by pairing the sweater with jeans, some colorful accessories, and a cute headband. Jane is ready for a casual afternoon running errands. 

Check out Kid Cudi rocking his own version of PFC #12.  While you're at it, check out Khatu's blog to see what other petite ladies put together for this PFC!

Night Jane

Sweater:  Melrose Boutique

Shorts:  HM

Shoes:  Melrose Boutique

Bracelet:  Gordmans

Ring:  Express

Clutch:  Thrifted

Earrings:  Charlotte Russe

Lipstick:  Round Case, Chaos | shop

Day Jane

Sweater:  Melrose Boutique

Jeans:  312 Classic Flair, the Limited | shop

Scarf:  ?

Purse:  Coach

Shoes:  Target versie pump | shop

Headband:  Burlington Coat Factory

JCrew Perfect Shirt in Plaid

Oh hi, 2012. I'm still writing 2011 on various pieces of paper and important documents.  Well, it's back to the grind this week. Good thing I'm rocking one of my favorite shirts to make the transition a bit easier. This plaid button down is on regular rotation in my closet because of its casual, chic vibe; paired with this vest--a much loved layering piece--this look has become one of my favorite "go-to" looks.

Now, about those New Year's Resolutions....

Shirt:  JCrew, the Perfect Shirt | shop, also comes in gingham!
Vest:  JCrew, old favorite | this year's version here
Jeans:  Bullhead Black The 55 Denim Legging in Rinsed Indigo, PacSun | shop
Shoes:  Nine West
Necklace:  Big Love
Earrings:  Target
Purse:  Kate Spade

JCrew Winter Blues & the Red Kate Spade Bag

I needed to add some pizazz to this cold winter's day. Hence a debut:  my new Kate Spade bag! I'm pretty in love with this chic new bag for work. My only issue is that the straps are a bit too small to be entirely functional. I picked this up a few weeks ago at the local Kate Spade Outlet. Win.

Also, I'm poppin' the collar like it's hot. What can I say? My tree is up and I'm listening to Christmas music. I do what I want.

Have a great day readers!

Shirt:  Selvedge Chambray Shirt, JCrew | shop
Sweater:  JCrew
Skirt:  JCrew | shop (beautiful winter version), also styled here.
Belt:  Gap
Tights:  H&M
Shoes:  Nine West
Earrings:  Target
Headband:  JCrew
Bag:  Kate Spade Outlet

P.S. If you're headed to the mall later today, stop by Victoria's Secret for a free pair of their Fashion Show Panties with this coupon.  Good in stores for today only.

Black & Red Wednesday

Happy Wednesday Bloggers! November is in full swing and I'm feeling the black and red. And surprise, surprise - more animal print! Sounds like somebody is fully converted.

Have a great day readers!

Cardigan:  Loft
Top:  Express
Skirt:  The Limited | shop
Belt:  Forever 21
Shoes:  Target versie pump | shop
Earrings:  Charlotte Russe
Necklace:  For Love 21 (Forever 21's jewelry store)
Ring:  Thrift Shop