Friday Five Under $50

I recently had a sponsored Instagram post pop up in my feed featuring a blogger wearing a denim shirtdress. I have no idea who it was, didn't check to see if the dress was shoppable, and went along with my day. But the denim shirtdress resonated with me, and thus became the catalyst for this under $50 look.

When shopping for shirtdresses for myself, I have a pretty hard rule about pockets. It was something I picked up from the days of "What Not To Wear" and Stacy and Clinton always recommended that if you had a larger bust, it would be best to avoid any bulky pockets in that area. It makes sense, right? But also presents a challenge with denim dresses. While I wasn't completely sold on the sleeves of this one, it looks like just the right shade of blue and has very unnoticeable pockets.

My favorite part of this look is the bag - I now know that beaded bags are the new straw bags and this round one is so cute! At $49.99 it just made the cut, but for that price you could probably be convinced to add another bag you don't need to your closet.

Gold Disc Necklaces, $8 at H&M
BlankNYC Short Sleeve Denim Shirtdress, $30 at Nordstrom Rack
Universal Thread Woven Mules, $25 at Target
Beaded Wooden Bag, $50 at Mango
Loop Wrap Belt, $20 at Gap

Friday Five Under $50

Tired Tank Top, $42 at J.Crew Factory
Cheetah Block Heel Sandal in Suede, $32 at Gap Factory
Minaudire Bag, $48 at Zara
High Rise Military Culottes, $35 at Gap
 BP Marbled Earrings, $16 at Nordstrom

Friday Five Under $50

Time for a summery Friday five. I have literally put these items in all my virtual carts and am trying to talk myself out of clicking 'submit order'. Especially that dress - I am such a sucker for a printed dress! Even though I feel like I've never had much luck with red dresses, that Asian inspired print is calling my name. I mean, it wouldn't hurt to order it just to try it on, right?

Topshop Knotted Midi Dress, $46 at Nordstrom
Cubic Zirconia Parrot Earrings, $40 at Express
Joseph D'Arezzo Straw Bag, $25 at TJMaxx
Bambu Bracelet, $38 at Lilly Pulitzer
Satin Knot Slide Sandals, $44 at Loft (with code LOVEMOM)

Friday Five Under $50

Winter is still holding on strong, with the latest snowstorm causing power outages across the state, myself included. No power in the winter is no fun, especially since that means no heat! At least it was only for one night, but for the moment I'm wishing I were somewhere much warmer! Unsurprisingly I have some very summery items in the mix today.

I was very excited about the Gap & Banana Republic Friends and Family sale, which is going on now, because everything, even denim is 40% off with an extra 10%, and I snapped up three pairs of jeans, black, white, and button fly. Friends and Family is the only sale where denim is included in the promotion, so I like to take advantage. They had a lot of other cute new things like this dress and this skirt, but I'm trying to be good.

This weekend I'll be celebrating my mom's birthday, though she hasn't decided what she wants to do yet. I'm baking her a cake, and while I usually go with Ina Garten's chocolate cake, I wouldn't mind trying something new. Does anyone have a chocolate cake recipie they swear by?

Knot Front Shirt, $39 at Nordstrom

Toucan Stud Earrings, $18 at Banana Republic 40% off with code BRFAMILY

Crab Round Straw Tote, $40 at Topshop

Button Fly Denim Pencil Skirt, $60 at Gap 40% off with code FRIEND 

Raffia Pom Mules, $25 at H&M

Friday Five Under $50

Can you tell my mind has ventured to spring? Not that it's my fault, since all the spring things are out now, taunting, tempting. All the while I'm firmly planted in winter. I know there is beauty to be had even on the grey days, but mostly I just wish I could hibernate for the next few weeks, at least until that first sign of green appears.

Last summer I was chomping at the bit to get on board the round woven bag trend, and decided it was worth a little splurge. Naturally this year the market has exploded with the bags and can now be found in more colors, and in many cases for half the price as they were last summer. The black one really caught my eye, and if I'd held off buying one, it would be under heavy consideration right now.

Also I've noticed Target has been doing great things in their shoe department. While I mostly avoid shopping there because their shoes do not get high marks for comfort from me, it's hard not to look and see all the cute footwear. These lavender flats feel like an amalgamation of five different trends, but in the best way possible.



H&M Floral Dress, $25
eBay Black Round Rattan Bag, $50
Target Lavender Sling Back Flats, $28
Mango Double Hoop Ear Jackets, $10
J.Crew Factory Denim Jacket, $43

Friday Five Under $50

Another month or so and there might just be enough daylight after work for outfit photos.
Until then, I let the weekend weather and my emotions dictate whether or not I take outfit photos. Last weekend had a fair amount of sunshine, but I could not find it within myself to get dressed on Sunday. It was a binge watch "The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel" kind of day. I'm not proud, but that is what I did. Hence, I'm just popping in here on Friday to share some under $50 pieces, and to wish you all a happy and productive (or unproductive, if that is what you'd prefer) weekend.

This weekend, I do in fact have plans that will force me to get dressed; on Saturday I'm meeting up with a couple local bloggers for coffee and outfit photos, so an outfit post will definitely happen next week!

Christian Di Riccio Woven Mules, $40 at TJMaxx
Madewell Stacking Rings, $28 at Shopbop
Vero Moda Floral Culottes, $25 at Nordstrom Rack
Tie Waist Shirt, $42 at J.Crew Factory
Frayed Ribbon Fedora, $55 at Banana Republic (extra 60% off sale and 40% off new items!)

Friday Five Under $50

A short post week here - shorter than it's already been shortened to - because it's been cold, and I haven't wanted to leave the house. On Monday, when I had to go out for a visit to the Apple store, I had every intention of taking outfit photos, however I texted my friend to see if she could meet me for coffee after my genius bar appointment. As I was catching up with her the sun was slowly setting, and when she suggested going to see a movie, which after a quick check on my phone was going to be starting in 15 minutes, I knew outfit photos were just not going to happen.

Lack of blog posts aside, I probably had the most fun on a January bank holiday that I've had in years. We went to see I, Tonya, which I enjoyed, and evidently you can get wine in the movie theaters now, so a plastic cup of pinot grigio almost seemed obligatory.

I'm definitely thinking that wrap top will be making it's way into my cart during the next sale at Banana Republic, and how cute is the ring bag from Target? I love the little scarf on the ring - I'm going to have to try tying one on to my own ring bag!

Striped Wrap Top, $50 at Banana Republic
Crossbody Ring Bag, $35 at Target
Tassel Hoop Earrings, $26 at Mango
Silk Scarf, $10 at Ann Taylor
Triple Buckle Booties, $30 at TJMaxx

Friday Five Under $50 and Word of the Year

Focus 

A lot of bloggers having been sharing words of the year - a word they have chosen to represent the mindset they want to have for the year. It wasn't something I'd thought about doing, but when paying close attention to my behaviors lately, I've realized that I need to focus.

Life is full of distractions. Sometimes I feel like I start to do something, and an hour later I find I've gotten distracted, started half a dozen other things, and not finished the first. I'll pick up my phone to see what time it is, instead look at my notifications, several minutes later put my phone down, and then realize I still don't know what time it is. Trying to limit phone time is something I want to do.

I often wonder how I find the energy to sink tons of time and effort into fruitless and frivious tasks, like trying to find the perfect ballet-inspired wrap sweater (hint, not this one, this one, or this one). Yet when it comes to sitting down and actually writing my blog post, I make excuses and procrastinate (too tired, too hungry, need to let the dog out). I know if I focused more on the blog, I could make it better. Even if the idea of it ever being more than a hobby is off the table, being a better expression of me and creating content that I truly love, which doesn't feel rushed or forced, should be higher up on my priority list than a sweater.

If I focused more on my job search, I could have applied to half a dozen jobs by now instead of one. If I focused more on the positive things in my life, I could probably be happier. As it is still Friday, I want to leave you with some fun, inexpensive things to shop for, and I also thought I'd share this article, "Things to give up if you want to be successful" because I liked a lot of the quotes and there was definitely some truth to it.

Baggu Round Canvas Shoulder Bag, $45 at Nordstrom
Short Sleeve Blouse, $10 at H&M
BP Split Leg Striped Pants, $55 (oops) at Nordstrom
Double Ring Belt, $7 at H&M
Dip Front Heeled Mules, $30 at Target

Friday Five Under $50: Self Care

With Christmas fast approaching, and the list of things to get done seeming to only get longer, it's all too easy to fall into bad habits of staying up too late and over extending. Taking out some time for self care is important, and I think it's okay to treat yourself to a little indulgence. I've been wanting to try out the Sunday Riley cleanser for a while because of its rave reviews, but have been worried about falling into a $45 face wash habit - right now I feel like the $10 I spend on my drugstore brand is already a lot!

I'd also love to try out the Shhhowercap, as someone who doesn't wash their hair everyday, I'd love one that isn't going to get gross and mildew after a few wears, but again, that feels truly like a splurge.

This weekend I plan on giving myself time for a DIY manicure, and I'm booking a facial for next week - I know I haven't wrapped a single gift, still need to finish up my shopping, and have a lot of baking I'd like to do, but I also don't want to lose sight of what is important about the holidays, and let self-imposed demands come before spending time with family and friends or taking care of myself.

Get Happy Body Wash, $20 at Plant Apothecary 
Satin Kimono, $19 at H&M
Sunday Riley Ceramic Slip Cleanser, $45 at Sephora

Essential Oil Diffuser, $48 at Ellia
Shhhowercap, $43 at Neiman Marcus

Friday Five Under $50

Huh. This set ended up going in a far more festive direction than was my intent when I started off with those adorable black velvet bow slingbacks. I think it was the plaid tote which tipped the scales. Needless to say we are now in November, and it's officially holiday season, so I should just sit here and be pleased to have a head start for once. Now to just keep it up, right?

Bow Sweater, $48 at J.Crew Factory
Cascade Ball Earrings, $48 at Nordstrom
Plaid Tote, $37 at Old Navy
Faux Fur Stole, $40 at Zara
Velvet Slingbacks, $50 at Mango

Friday Five Under $50

"If you’re not making any mistakes or experiencing any setbacks, chances are you’re not doing anything." 

It would seem to me that the statement necklace has been replaced by the statement earring, and I probably could have chosen four more pairs I'm loving right now - maybe I should do that next week! While I can sometimes be a challenge to find pairs that are as light weight as they are dazzling, and I can not personally vouch for these, I will mention that Mango offers free shipping and returns, if you feel so inclined to give them a whirl.  

J.Crew Twill Winnie Pant, $35
Mango Flower Pendant Earrings, $20
H&M Merino Wool Sweater, $50
Nordstrom Rack Ring Handel Bag, $25
TJMaxx Charles by Charles David Metallic Mules, $50

Friday Five Under $50

I'm a little obsessed with this dark floral kimono style blouse. Add in that it's only $30 and some sizes are already going out of stock, if it weren't for Nordstrom Rack's $100 free shipping minimum I'm quite certain I'd have already ordered it.

I'm curious how you feel about the interchangeable handbag straps. I spotted them at Kate Spade last year as a part of their push for a more customizable Byrdie bag, but now they are cropping up everywhere, and for less than $20, is it a trend you'd try? I think this metallic silver strap would be equally as nice on a black bag, particularly as we move into the colder months when my black bags are in heavy rotation.

Metallic Shoulder Strap, $18 at H&M
David Jones Crossbody Bag, $17 at TJMaxx
Dee Elly Floral Top, $30 at Nordstrom Rack
CL by Chinese Laundry Pump, $40 at DSW
Giraffe Passport Case, $20 at J.Crew Factory

Friday Five Under $50

Always happy to be greeting Friday again, especially when I've got some fun plans for the weekend including a blogger brunch!

While I've still got summer shopping on my mind, I tried to think in terms of transitional pieces for this little set. I actually tried those mules on in person and they were super comfortable! I talked myself out of taking them home at the time, but I'm wondering if I'd wear them enough to warrant going back for them? What do you think?

Striped Top $49 at J.Crew

Brixton Straw Hat, $44 at Nordstrom
Ankle Zip Jeans, $30 at H&M
Crown Vintage Mules, $40 at DSW
Front Lapel Backpack, $40 at Mango

Friday Five Under $50

I think H&M really hit the mark with this dark floral, I would love to see if this blouse looks as good in person as it does in this photo! It pretty much inspired the rest of the look, including the perfectly color coordinated sequined fruit slides, because, why not?

Floral Blouse, $25 at H&M
Circular Pendant Earrings, $16 at Mango
Jacquard Shorts, $30 at J.Crew Factory
Suede Pouch, $20 at TJMaxx
Sequined Fruit Slides, $40 at Zara

Friday Five Under $50

I'm happy we are having a nice July heatwave, because it's summer, and that just how it should be. Sometimes I wish I had a pool in my life. Not necessarily my own, just one belonging to a friend or neighbor who I felt comfortable enough to freely use. I know I have a beach, so I shouldn't really complain, but when it comes to actually going in the water, I'm prone to a panic attack every time a piece of seaweed brushes against my ankle - I know I should have thicker skin for a New England girl - clear blue waters where you can see your feet even when you are up to your neck are stuff of fantasy, all I've ever known are the somewhat murkier depths of the Long Island Sound.

Anyway, I thought I'd share some cute poolside pieces today, and hopefully that J.Crew coverup is still on sale, it was yesterday. Also, who else is having a slight obsession with one shoulder swimsuits? Admittedly I did place an order for this Old Navy suit, we shall see if it works out!

Embroidered Coverup, $89.50 at J.Crew (take 40% off with code shopsummer)
Soludos Red Espadrilles, $50 at 6PM.com
Turkish Round Beach Towel, $36 at Gilt
One Shoulder Swimsuit, $30 at H&M
Toucan Pool Float, $25 at TJMaxx

Friday Five Under $50

I live my life like I'm one purchase away from everything changing. "These are the shoes that will make my blog go viral."  "This is the dress I'll get engaged in."  "This is the blazer I'll land that job in." I know that isn't how things work, but somehow that flawed logic always pushes its way through and helps me to rationalize all kinds of purchases. Half way through the month and I think it's time to put my credit card on ice, as I've been rationalizing all over the place. While the lines between need and want always become a little blurry, sometimes it can be just as satisfying to be an enabler, so here, this is me enabling you to do some weekend shopping:

Gap Crochet Halter Dress, $40
J.Crew Destination Silk Scarf, $35
Etsy Gold Tassel Earrings, $21 (seller in CT!)
Madewell Shorts, $40
Steve Madden Grace Slide Sandal, $50

Friday Finds Under $50

Summer feels like it's finally in full swing, which I realize is a bit of delayed feeling considering that we are already a week into July! I finally got my first, much needed pedicure of the year, put away the last of my boots and pulled out all my sandals (seriously), and packed away my wool blazers. Not sure why I'd been dragging my feet on getting those things done, and of course I'm already fretting about reversing the process in a few mere months. But rather than torture myself about the inevitable turn of the earth, I thought I might contemplate some fun summer closet additions. I love pieces that are bright and feel fun, my summer style is definitely defined by lots of color!

Tropical Print Shirt, $50 at Mango
Wrap Skirt, $35 at H&M
Ring Hoop Earrings, $34 at BaubleBar
Straw Bag, $50 at Loft
Ziginy Embroidered Wedges, $50 at Nordstrom Rack
Tiered Gingham Maxi Dress, $22 at SheIn
Beaded Ball Drop Earrings, $29 at Etsy
Face Pattern Straw Clutch, $16 at SheIn
Platform Sandals, $35 at H&M
Embroidered One Shoulder Top, $25 at SheIn
Knit Cotton Skirt, $30 at Mango

Vintage Straw Bags Under $50

This week I decided to deviate from my usual (have I been doing it often enough to call it usual?) Friday Five Under $50 and share, well at lot more than five things. But they are still all under $50!

Every summer straw bags and totes are always part of the repertoire, but this year it feels like they are really taking center stage and showing up in more unique shapes and styles than just the standard market tote or clutch. Many of the bags feel like a throwback, so why not shop vintage and get something unique?

Thus, I've spent far too much time browsing Etsy and finding so many adorable, affordable vintage straw, wicker, and raffia bags. Happy shopping!

Sorry links are no longer working, but these beauties have all sold!

Friday Five Under $50

So happy it's finally Friday and the forecast says it's time for summer. Time for straw bags, tassels, poms, and a sexy swim suit that does not look like it's from Target. Right now I'm on the hunt for the perfect 'lawn friendly' shoe to wear for an upcoming wedding this month. There are a few pairs I like, including the one featured below from Daniel Footwear, but I don't want to be too casual - I'm planning on wearing my japanese floral print Kate Spade dress. Don't you just love my logic that since I'm wearing a dress already in my closet I can justify a new pair of shoes? (And probably a new bag too, right?)

Pom Pom Straw Bag, $30 at Zara
Fringe Drop Earrings, $48 at Bauble Bar
Lace Up One Piece Swimsuit, $40 at Target
Off The Shoulder Maxi Dress, $25 at H&M
White Wedge Sandal, $47 at Daniel Footwear

This post is sponsored by Daniel Footwear. Thanks for supporting the brands who support Chic on the Cheap.

Friday Five Under $50

Enter my Crown Jewelry Giveaway!

It doesn't feel like Memorial Day Weekend. Though I'm not sure where I've been these past few months. This past Monday as I was struggling to get a post ready for Tuesday, I asked Sean if I should just give in and only do three for the week or power through and make four happen. He told me it was only Monday and too soon to give up. Hence, post number four this week.

I know I should be blogging about Memorial Day Sales, but isn't everyone else doing that? Of course I like to be non-conformist, so I'm sharing these tassel earrings I'm smitten with, the fact that I've got rust colored footwear on my mind - also loving these and these, and dreaming of summery things. It is the unofficial first weekend of summer, afterall.

I hope you all have fun plans for the long weekend!

Tassel Chandelier Earrings, $35 at Express
Ruffle Camisole Top, $10 at H&M
Suede Bow Slides, $30 at Zara
Cynthia Rowley Fringe Crossbody Bag, $47 at Nordstrom Rack
Ankle Length Pants, $35 at H&M