Penny Pincher Fashion

Thursday Friday Giveaway

2013-05-17T00:00:00.000-04:00

This week's giveaway is from a brand that I was introduced to while at Lucky FABB West last month. You may remember me sharing the story of them giving me a matching bag for my daughter (here). Thursday Friday makes the most adorable & creatively designed bags you have ever seen. And since this is the time of year when we all need that perfect carry-all, I have partnered with them to give away one of their fabulous totes!

Even better, they are offering an exclusive discount for PPF readers - just use code PENNYPINCHER at checkout to receive 30% off your purchase through the end of May (excludes sale items). Take a look at these fun options and then read on below for how you can enter to win:

HOW TO ENTER:

(Must be 18 years old & a US resident)

1) Follow PPF on at least one of these platforms: Facebook, Twitter or BlogLovin

2) Like Thursday Friday on Facebook

3) Leave a comment below & share with us which style from Thursday Friday you'd choose if you win

This giveaway will close on May 20th at 11:59pm and I'll announce a randomly selected winner the following day. Good luck!

Bright White

2013-05-16T00:00:00.000-04:00

White denim is undoubtedly a summer essential...but unfortunately, the perfect pair can be really hard to find. I've tried on dozens of styles that were too thin & almost see-through (not a good look) and others that didn't have the right balance of structure + stretch to them. Since I am pear-shaped, for years I stayed away from this shade of denim because I thought it would only further emphasize my larger lower half. But, it's true what they say - it is all about the fit!

This cropped pair were a dream come true for me - a flawless fit, comfortable and surprisingly flattering. Though they are a boyfriend shape, I sized down for more of a "skinny" look and I've been wearing them nonstop ever since. I decided to share two of my favorite ways to style them - one casual day look and one slightly more polished. If you've been afraid of white jeans in the past, like I was, I encourage you to give these a try - I promise you won't be disappointed (they also come in short & long lengths)!

What I'm wearing:

Dorothy Perkins blouse (here; use code DPFWE for 20% off), Gap blazer (similar), c/o Old Navy jeans (on sale here), Pour La Victoire heels via Marshall's (on sale here or here), c/o T+J Designs cuff (similar), c/o Send the Trend clutch (here), Nails: Sally Hansen Mint Sorbet

What I'm wearing:
c/o Sheinside blouse (similar), c/o Old Navy scarf (here) & jeans (here), ALDO sandals (similar here or here), c/o JustFab bag (here), Michael Kors watch (similar), Bracelets: c/o Stella & Dot (here) & Forever 21 (similar), Ray-Ban wayfarers (similar)

This post is sponsored by Old Navy.
Check out Old Navy's latest fashion lineup in store or online at oldnavy.com.

Golden Hour

2013-05-15T00:00:00.000-04:00

Sometimes I just feel like getting dressed up for no reason...I find it to be a great mood-lifter, especially after a couple days of being stuck inside the house. Now, I will be the first to admit that wearing ensembles like this isn't really practical for my day-to-day routine with the kids. But, I do love beautiful pieces with unique details...like this bright blouse. The colorblocked design is utterly modern, but the draped shoulder detail & tie sash give it such a feminine feel. If your style is more relaxed, try disassembling these pieces & wear the top with slim-cut trousers for the office or pair the skirt with a simple tee & flats for the weekend.

What I'm wearing:

Jealous Tomato top c/o QuestHaven Fashions (here), Allen B. skirt (similar), Zara heels (similar here or here), Stella & Dot ring (here), Stripes + Sequins earrings (here), Zara clutch (similar here or here), Nails: Sally Hansen Mint Sorbet, Lips: Revlon Moon Drops Hot Coral

Steals Under $30

2013-05-14T00:00:00.001-04:00

Every month when I put together SUT, I always try to come up with new combinations - sometimes I put together two complete outfits and other times it's just a random mix of seasonally-appropriate items. For May, I decided to focus on blouses & skirts - mainly because I tend to wear more skirts & dresses this time of year due to the fact that they are cooler & less restricting than jeans or trousers. Below I've put together 3 different looks...whether your style is more edgy, feminine or classic, there is something here for everyone! I'd love to hear in the comments below which combination is your favorite and what format of my Steals Under $30 posts you enjoy most!

Night Out: ASTR Blouse / Tinley Road Earrings / J. Crew Factory Bracelet / Style By Marina Skirt

Aldo Chatsworth Clutch / Pour La Victoire Briller Sandals

Weekend: L'Amour Nanette Lepore Scallop Shirt / BP Heart Shaped Sunglasses / Orelia Friendship Bracelet

Tinley Road Rhinestone Friendship Bracelet / Miss KL Pleated Maxi Skirt / Merona Crossbody Bag

Forever 21 Metallic D'Orsay Flats

For Work: Mango Sleeveless Blouse / Downtown by Lana Necklace / Aldo Reifel Watch / Forever 21 Paisley Skirt

Style & Co. Exotic Envelope Wristlet / Xhilaration Susy Ankle Strap Heels

Waterfront Stroll

2013-05-13T00:00:00.000-04:00

One of the greatest benefits that has come to me personally from blogging is the friendships I've made over the past 2 years (the closest being Jenn & Alyson). We text each other throughout the week, vent about life & are genuinely excited for one another when a great opportunity presents itself. Another bonus is that we help each other shop! Alyson was recently on a trip to NYC and instagrammed a picture of this floral tee she found on the clearance rack at Madewell. I quickly texted her to ask if there was another one in my size & she was sweet enough to scoop it up for me. Since she bought one for herself too, we decided to link up today and show how we both styled this fun floral-printed shirt for spring - check out her post here.

What I'm wearing:

Madewell shirt (here), LOFT skirt (similar here, here or here), c/o Sheinside trench (here), Mossimo heels (similar), Merona bag (here or similar here), Stella & Dot ring (here), c/o InPink bracelet (here), Simply Vera Vera Wang aviators (similar), Nails: Essie Tart Deco

Lofty Goals

2013-05-11T13:15:00.002-04:00

It's extremely rare that I dedicate an entire post to a singular store here on PPF. But every once in a while, a brand comes out with a line that is so worth discussing on its own...and this is certainly the case with LOFT. I have been so impressed/obsessed with the pieces that they've designed for the season, particularly their accessories. Nothing could be more fun than these tribal-inspired jewels & embellished clutches (all less than $45) - score them now before they're gone!

1) Beaded Diamond Pattern Clutch

2) Medallion Collection Necklace (40% off with code LOVEMOM)

3) Raffia Diamond Pattern Clutch

4) Blue & Green Multi-Chain Bracelet

5) Thread Wrapped Coral Stone Bracelet (40% off with code LOVEMOM)

6) Beaded Gem Clutch

7) Tiered Bead & Chain Necklace (40% off with code LOVEMOM)

8) Sequin Stripe Clutch

Floral Frill

2013-05-10T00:00:00.000-04:00

I have long professed my love for shopping on eBay - it's one of the best places to find pieces that have been discontinued or are no longer available...and you never know when you'll come across something amazing. This skirt is a perfect example of just that - a designer piece in an of-the-moment shape for less than $40! I couldn't believe when I found that it's still available online for just under $150. Even though it is black, when paired with a bright floral shell (this one is only $20!), it is totally spring-appropriate and fun.

What I'm wearing:

LOFT top (on sale here; in petites here), Moschino Cheap & Chic skirt via eBay (here or similar in faux leather, cobalt blue, black & polka dot print), Belt via eBay (similar here or here), ALDO pumps (similar), ASOS clutch (here), c/o Cheerfully Charmed bracelet (similar), Target sunnies (here), Lips: CoverGirl Lip Perfection Enchantress

Recent Purchases

2013-05-09T00:00:00.000-04:00

Continuing on with my mission of injecting more color into my wardrobe, the pieces I bought in April clearly prove I am doing just that. Since I wore my favorite metallic sandals from last year so much that they were nearly falling apart, I was happy to find this gladiator style to replace them. And thanks to all your feedback on Instagram, I finally settled on the silver pair (which looked better on my skin tone). In addition to the items below, I also purchased the floral jacket from this post and this striped dress seen on Instagram here. I have decided to make May a "no-buy month" so I will be doing my best to mix & match items I already own in creative ways...and hopefully it will help you to make the most of your wardrobe too!

1) Mossimo Sleeveless Blouse (also in black, hot pink, ivory & teal)

2) Stella & Dot Juniper Necklace (I used my 50% off hostess discount)

3) Mango Floral-Print Top (on sale + extra 15% off with code GOAHEAD)

4) LOFT Beaded Paillette Belt (extra 40% off; also in coral)

5) Guess Sileno Color-Blocked Heels (on sale; also in red)

6) C. Wonder Leather Tassel Key Ring (also in black, orange, brown & mint)

7) Report Mazur Sandals (also in rose gold)

On Repeat

2013-05-08T00:00:00.000-04:00

If you were to ask me what my go-to outfit combination is, this would be it. When I'm short on time or unsure of what to wear, a tailored blazer + skinny jeans + pointed pumps works every time. It's the ideal combination of comfortable & polished without being overly dressy. And this textured top is such a fun way to add more color to these usual basics, plus I love that it matches my Stella & Dot bracelet perfectly!

What I'm wearing:

c/o Daisy Rae Boutique top (here), H&M blazer (similar), Forever 21 jeans (here), Truth or Dare by Madonna pumps (on sale here), ASOS clutch (similar here or here), Bracelets: c/o Stella & Dot (here & here), Blu Bijoux c/o Max & Chloe (here) & Vintage, ASOS ring (here), Ray-Ban wayfarers (similar), Lips: L'Oreal Colour Caresse Cotton Pink

BaubleBar $100 Giveaway ~ CLOSED

2013-05-07T00:00:00.000-04:00

If you aren't already familiar with BaubleBar, let me introduce you to what will undoubtedly become your new obsession (aka "my happy place"). They have the most gorgeous jewelry you've ever laid eyes on...with a perfect mix of high & low pieces for every budget. I've purchased several things from them over the past year that I always get complimented on. Whether you're looking for simple everyday studs or a statement necklace, you will find it all here. I'm thrilled to be partnering with BaubleBar this week to host a $100 giveaway, just in time for Mother's Day! Take a peek at some of my favorite pieces below and then read on for how you can enter to win...

Ice Pave Disco Necklace // Initial Charm Pendant // Warrior Triad Necklace // Pierced ID Bracelet

Opal Galactic Drops // Pink Horus Pendant // Pave Pyramid Studs // Gold Arrow Ring // Gold Knot Ring

Gold Cleo Deco Collar // Crystalline Stack // Anna May Drops

HOW TO ENTER:

(Must be 18 years old & a US resident)

1) Follow PPF on at least one of these platforms: Facebook, Twitter or BlogLovin

2) Like BaubleBar on Facebook

3) Leave a comment below with what piece(s) you would chose from BaubleBar if you win

And our winner is...

Kristin from Chic All Week

Congratulations - I will be emailing you soon with details on how you can claim your prize! Thanks to all who entered!!

Orange Crush

2013-05-06T00:00:00.000-04:00

When I was a little girl, online shopping didn't even exist yet...but I remember looking through my mom's catalogs that arrived in the mail each month. I would flip through the pages and mark the ones that I liked best (even though they were women's sizes and I was only 7 or 8 at the time). I just loved imagining what it would be like to dress up in all those fabulous things. Spiegel was one of the few catalogs that I actually remember my mom ordering clothes from, so I'm a little sentimental about the brand - which is why I was thrilled when they asked me to style something from their spring line!

It was really hard to choose because there are so many great pieces for the season...most of which are on sale right now! But, this dress immediately caught my eye thanks to the fun color + slightly mod shape. And when I put it on, I was amazed by the couture quality for such a great price. I'm also seriously obsessed with these perforated pumps & this amazing leather jacket they sent me...I almost wish it was cold again so I could wear it!

Since my blogging bff and I chose the same dress (without knowing it), we decided to link up and show "west coast vs. east coast" style! You can see how Jenn wore hers here. And the best news of all is that Spiegel is offering an exclusive discount code for PPF readers! Just enter "Spiegel2013" at checkout to receive 20% off your purchase.

What I'm wearing:

c/o Spiegel dress (here), J. Crew necklace (similar here, here or here), c/o DMSX pumps (similar here or here), c/o JustFab clutch (here), Bracelets: Vintage & c/o Christina M. Boutique (here), LC Lauren Conrad sunnies (on sale here), Nails: Essie ClamBake

Polished Casual

2013-05-03T01:00:00.000-04:00

A cargo jacket is definitely one of my closet essentials - it's perfect for dressing down a floral skirt or sequin mini and is the ideal lightweight topper for a simple tee & shorts. I decided to give mine a dose of polish by pairing it with an all-white palette + metallic accents. The crisp button-down and cropped skinnies are still casual & comfy, but elevate it enough to wear out to dinner with friends. Another must-have of mine for the warmer months is a dainty necklace like this new favorite...it's an everyday piece you can wear even on the hottest days without feeling restricted or weighed down.

What I'm wearing:

Old Navy shirt (on sale here), Rubbish jacket (here or similar here and here), Mossimo jeans (similar here or here), Guess heels c/o TJ Maxx (similar here or here), Gorjana necklace c/o Lilac Bijoux (here), Mango bag (similar), Bracelets: Vintage (similar) & Forever 21 (here), Etsy ring (here), Dockers aviators (similar), Nails: Essie ClamBake, Lips: Maybelline ColorSensational Coral Crush

DIY Style + Savers $100 Giveaway

2013-05-03T00:00:00.001-04:00

For this week's giveaway, I am partnering up again with Savers for a Pin It To Win It contest! And I'm also sharing a few different creative ways to repurpose accessories to get the most use out of your thrifted treasures. Take a look at the photos & then read on below for how you can enter to win...

3 Ways to Wear a Floral Scarf

As a bow neck-tie

As a belt

Tied around your handbag

3 Ways to Embellish a Clutch

Add a chain link strap
(buy at your local craft store or use a long necklace you already own)

Add a grosgrain ribbon stripe in a contrasting color

Add a brooch as a sparkly accent

Good Luck!!

Tropical Breeze

2013-05-02T00:00:00.000-04:00

Since this is my last post in the T.J. Maxx series of Spring Trends, I decided to push myself out of my comfort zone a little. When we were asked to focus on prints, I originally found a cute pair of polka dot pants that were totally "me", but also a little safe & predictable. Then I came across this mirrored-print tropical sheath and, though it is definitely a bold choice, it's totally modern + on-trend for the season. And when I saw that it was a designer label I love for nearly 50% off what I would have paid at a department store, I knew I couldn't pass it up!

It's usually really difficult for me to find a flawless fit when it comes to sheath dresses (thanks to my pear-shape), but this one hugs in all the right places without being too clingy...and the length is just perfect. I'm already dreaming up other ways to style this beauty - adding a structured blazer for a more sophisticated spin or wearing it as a skirt with a white tee knotted at the waist, metallic flat sandals + panama hat for a day-appropriate look.

Thank you so much to T.J. Maxx for this incredible partnership opportunity - I've loved every minute of these challenges and have had so much fun sharing my MaxxStyle Scout finds with all of you!

Our MaxxStyle Scouts are making the latest trends their own, and sharing tips for ways to express yourself through fashion. You never know what you'll find at TJ's - the possibilities to express your personal style are endless.

Disclosure: Compensation was provided by T.J. Maxx via Glam Media. The opinions expressed herein are my own & not indicative of the opinions or positions of T.J. Maxx.

Navy Striped

2013-05-01T00:00:00.000-04:00

I definitely gravitate towards more classic styles & silhouettes - navy stripes have been seen repeatedly here on PPF and will always be a closet staple for me. So, it seemed only fitting to wear this new nautical-inspired blouse with a bright red blazer for an all-American vibe. But to keep the look from feeling stuffy, I paired them with slouchy boyfriend jeans, slightly edgy white heels & piled-on gold jewelry. What are some of your favorite ways to balance out classic pieces in your wardrobe and make them look modern & fresh?

What I'm wearing:

LOFT blazer (similar splurge or save), c/o SheInside top (here), ELLE jeans (similar here or here), ShoeMint heels (on sale here or similar here), Mossimo clutch (here), Michael Kors watch (similar), Vintage necklaces, Bracelets: c/o Lulu's (similar), c/o Stella & Dot (here), Blu Bijoux c/o Max & Chloe (here), Forever 21 ring (similar), Dockers aviators (similar), Lips: Maybelline ColorSensational Coral Crush

Mother's Day Wish List

2013-04-30T00:00:00.000-04:00

For most holidays, I publish a collage of items here on PPF that I am hoping to receive on that special day. It's an easy (& foolproof) way to share my wish list with family members so they can be sure to get me something that I will love. But, to be completely honest, all I really want this year for Mother's Day is a full 24-hours to spend with my family without distractions. I would love nothing more than a day-long outdoor excursion, involving a picnic lunch & hike, with lots of laughter and memory making. But since I know how my husband likes to also buy me something tangible to open the morning of, I've put together just a few things I'm loving right now:

1) Anthropologie Necklace // 2) Club Monaco Naomi Shirt (on sale!) // 3) Kate Spade New York iPhone Case

4) Gorjana Mia Wrap Ring // 5) C. Wonder Watersnake Clutch // 6) J. Crew Water Lily Bracelet

7) Sam Edelman Alva Sandals

A Thrifting Adventure

2013-04-29T00:00:00.000-04:00

I am so excited to share with you a new collaboration I've been working on with Savers! If you aren't familiar with them, Savers is a thrift store chain that has over 315 stores throughout the US, Canada & Australia. And every store supports one or more nonprofit organization in its local community by paying those partners for every donation made.

Savers opened up a store just a few miles away from my house last summer and it has quickly become one of my favorite places to find hidden gems. One of the things I love most about thrifting is that you can discover some high quality pieces if you just take the time to search for them. In the past, I've found a wool J. Crew jacket, velvet blazer, leather pencil skirt & an authentic Salvatore Ferragamo bag...all of which were under $10 a piece!

Savers graciously sent me a gift card to use on a thrifting adventure...and I couldn't be more thrilled with my amazing finds! I've put together 4 different outfits below using mostly pieces I purchased at Savers. I decided to focus on some of my favorite spring trends (color-blocking, stripes and black & white) to show that you can take thrifted items you find and mix them in a way that looks totally modern. Check here to find your nearest Savers location and be on the lookout for an exciting giveaway/contest coming later this week to PPF!

What I'm wearing:

Thrifted top & skirt, H&M blazer (similar), ALDO pumps (similar), c/o Christina M. Boutique necklace, Ann Taylor cuff (similar), Dockers aviators (similar)

What I'm wearing:
Thrifted top & shorts, Mossimo blazer (on sale here), JW Anderson for ALDO heels (on sale here), c/o Christina M. Boutique necklace, LC Lauren Conrad sunnies (on sale here)

What I'm wearing:

Thrifted top & skirt (100% silk!), LOFT belt (on sale here), c/o Outrage Fashion necklace (here), Chinese Laundry by Kristin Cavallari heels c/o Chinese Laundry (here), Thrifted ring

What I'm wearing:

Thrifted skirt (100% silk!), Joe Fresh tee (here), Guess heels c/o TJ Maxx (similar here or here), Thrifted earrings, Simply Vera Vera Wang aviators (similar)

Floral Bouquet

2013-04-26T00:00:00.000-04:00

I am definitely having a love affair with floral prints right now - somehow I think that by wearing them I can will the weather to warm up and actually feel like spring? This bomber-style jacket is the ideal lightweight piece for our current temperatures...and I love that the feminine print balances out the sporty shape. Speaking of obsessions, let me introduce you to my new favorite pair of heels. The nude hue matches my skin-tone perfectly & they're way more comfortable than you'd think = love!

What I'm wearing:

Bar III jacket (on sale here), Vince Camuto top (similar here or here), c/o Old Navy jeans (in Authentic wash; on sale here), Zara tote (here or similar for less here), Chinese Laundry by Kristin Cavallari heels c/o Chinese Laundry (here), Olivia Burton watch (similar here or here), Bracelets: Anne Klein c/o TJ Maxx (similar here or here), Forever 21 (here) & c/o Christina M. Boutique (here), Simply Vera Vera Wang aviators (similar), Lips: Revlon Lipstick Smoked Peach + Revlon ColorBurst Gloss Bellini

20 Under $20

2013-04-25T00:00:00.002-04:00

Last month's edition of TUT (here) was full of girly pieces, florals & pretty sorbet hues. So for April, I went in a different direction and decided to focus on classic styles with a laid-back feel that you can wear all season long - like chambray espadrilles, a slouchy striped sweater & a bright clutch (that's real leather!). These casual basics will carry you through spring & straight into summer with ease...and the best part is they're all $20 or less!

1) 2020AVE Panama Hat - $18 // 2) Clinique Limited-Edition Nail Polish (Sunny) - $16 // 3) Mango Shirt - $19.99

4) FACE Stockholm Lipstick (French Martini) - $16.99 // 5) Mango Tasseled Stripe Scarf - $19.99

6) Dorothy Perkins Coral Chain Bracelet - $15 // 7) Forever 21 Necklace - $10.80 // 8) Mossimo Denim Shorts - $15

9) JewelIQ Anchor Bracelet - $17 // 10) JCP Chambray Espadrilles - $18 // 11) French Connection Studs - $19.95

12) J. Crew iPhone Case - $12.99 // 13) ASOS Gold Cuff - $16.62 // 14) Mossimo Supply Co. Belt - $16.99

15) ShopLately Chevron Rings - $13 // 16) ShopLately Tortoise Sunnies - $18 // 17) Forever 21 Eyelet Skirt - $19.80

18) Bumper Sandals - $17.60 // 19) Cosmopolitan Leather Clutch - $20 // 20) Gap Striped Mariner Tunic - $17.49

Blooming Botanicals

2013-04-24T00:00:00.000-04:00

Today I'm so excited to be taking part in the London Times Spring LookBook. The moment I saw this floral dress, I fell in love with it...and when I tried it on, I was completely sold. The fit is incredibly flattering & the bold botanical print is spot-on for spring. Since the style is more feminine, I added a modern metal-plate belt & some edgy lace-up heels to balance out the girly shape of the dress. This is the perfect piece for all those graduations, weddings, & bridal/baby showers that the coming season brings (and it's under $80)! You can see more of their lookbook, along with the other 6 Spring Statements this week at London Times.

What I'm wearing:

c/o London Times dress (here; get 20% off with code LT20), Prabal Gurung for Target heels (similar here or here), Belt via eBay (similar here or here), Expressions NYC clutch (similar here or here), Forever 21 earrings (here), Lips: Maybelline Fifth Ave Fuschia

Beso $150 Giveaway ~ CLOSED

2013-04-23T00:00:00.000-04:00

I have an incredible new giveaway for you today from Beso. If you're not familiar with them, Beso is an amazing site that provides you the best of online shopping from hundreds of stores. What makes it even better is that you can save your favorite items into collections (instead of having to bookmark them all individually) and then they are all in one place when you're finally ready to buy! This also comes in handy when you have a birthday coming up & want to share your "wish list" with family & friends. Take a look at the collection I've put together of Spring Essentials under $100 and read on below for how you can enter to win a $150 gift card to use on Beso!

Club Monaco Laura Striped Tee // Guess Sileno Sandals // Victoria's Secret Silk Shirt
Joe Fresh Printed Tee // Kelly & Katie Striped Tote // Caslon Utility Jacket // Tobi Metallic Clutch
Zara Boyfriend Jeans // Mango Crystal Necklace // SheInside Pencil Skirt // Mango Neon Print Scarf
Merona Chambray Shirt Dress // J. Crew Stone Bracelet // SheInside Pleated Chiffon Skirt
LOFT Pointed Pumps // Old Navy Denim Jacket // Rebecca Minkoff iPhone Case
La Mer Collections Watch // Report Mazur Sandals // Kelly & Katie Karlie Satchel
Mango Crystal Transparent Necklace // Kardashian Kollection Aviators // Old Navy Vintage V-Neck Tee
Kate Spade Knot Stud Earrings

HOW TO ENTER:

(Must be 18 years old & a US resident)

1. Follow PPF on at least one of these platforms: Facebook, Twitter or B logLovin

2. Head over to Beso and create an account

3. Build your shopping collection of at least 6 items
(search the site & click the "+" symbol next to each product & select "Add to New Collection")

4. Leave a comment below and share the link to your collection ~ feel free to use mine as inspiration!

And our winner is...

Shelley

Congratulations and thank you to everyone who entered!!

Ruffles + Leather

2013-04-22T00:00:00.001-04:00

I am honored to be guest-posting over on Send The Trend today, talking about some of my favorite trends for the season. Since I'm perpetually drawn to more feminine styles, I fell in love with all the ruffled pieces that came down the runways at Gucci, Balenciaga & Chloe (to name a few). So when I found this top for less than $40, I couldn't resist scooping it up. I've worn twice with white wide-leg trousers & black skinny ankle pants...but this time I paired it with a faux leather pencil skirt for a sophisticated night-out look. Head over to the STT blog to see the second more casual look I put together and be sure to follow along as take over their Instagram feed all week long with #PennyPincherSTTyle!

What I'm wearing:

Mango top (similar here or here), Forever 21 skirt (similar here or here), Guess heels c/o TJ Maxx (similar here or here), Stripes & Sequins earrings (here), c/o T+J Designs cuff (similar here or here), c/o Send the Trend clutch (here; also in nude; fuchsia & black), Lips: CoverGirl Lip Perfection Enchantress, Nails: Sally Hansen Coral Reef

Pattern Play

2013-04-19T00:00:00.000-04:00

Sometimes all it takes are a few new pieces to revive your wardrobe & make you look at it in a whole new way. Case in point, this little cropped jacket & these ridiculously comfortable perforated flats. I loved that the patterns slightly echoed each other, but not in a way that was too obvious. I couldn't resist throwing in stripes + peplum (two of my weaknesses), plus a pop of color. And since there are a lot of layers & prints going on here, I kept my jewelry dainty and simple.

What I'm wearing:

H&M blouse (similar), J. Crew top (similar here, here or here), LOFT jacket (here; get 40% off with code RMNLOFTFF), Levi's jeans (on sale here), Dolce Vita flats c/o DNA Footwear (here; also in coral here), c/o Olivia + Joy bag (on sale here), c/o LoveStylize necklace (here), c/o Shop Lately rings (here & here), Tasha bangles (similar), Ray-Ban wayfarers (similar), Lips: Revlon Lipstick Smoked Peach + Revlon ColorBurst Gloss Bellini, Nails: Essie Lollipop

Tee Time

2013-04-18T00:00:00.000-04:00

In my opinion, a great-fitting tee should be soft, slightly slouchy & with a perfectly worn-in feel. There are several designer options that fit the bill, but I personally am not willing to pay $80 for a t-shirt. So when I came across these new styles in bright hues + classic stripes, I quickly snatched them up. Not only did they meet my criteria for comfort & fit, they also happen to be on sale...so it's the perfect time to stock up for spring & summer! To prove you can wear them with more than just a pair of jeans or shorts, I decided to show two different looks featuring my new favorite tees.

What I'm wearing:

c/o Old Navy tee (on sale here), Gap shirt (here), White House Black Market skirt (similar), Guess heels (on sale here), c/o Jeweliq necklace (here), ALDO clutch (similar), c/o T+J Designs cuff (similar here or here), Nails: Sally Hansen Sunkissed

What I'm wearing:
c/o Old Navy tee (on sale here), LOFT trousers (similar here or here), Forever 21 fedora (similar), New Look clutch (here), c/o Christina M. Boutique necklace, Michael Kors watch (similar), Forever 21 ring (here), Lips: Revlon Moon Drops Hot Coral

See last month's Old Navy dress post here & February's denim post here.

This post is sponsored by Old Navy. Check out Old Navy's latest fashion lineup in store or online at oldnavy.com.

To & From Guide

2013-04-17T15:00:00.000-04:00

I am so excited to be a part of the latest edition of the To & From Guide! If you aren't familiar with T&F, this is the brain child of two talented ladies (Meg & Katie), plus countless contributors, to help you find those perfect presents you need for upcoming occasions. This particular issue is focusing on graduations, Mother's & Father's Day, weddings, baby showers & birthdays. I was thrilled when Meg asked me to put together a gift guide for the mom on the go, which is a role I can definitely relate to! I've included a snapshot of my picks below, but you can view the entire guide here. Be sure to share with your family & friends (it's okay to drop a few hints)!