Friday Favorites

When I create these kinds of posts, they are generally more or less a collection of what I've been filling up my Pinterest boards with and lusting after. With maybe some filler items when I have an awkward empty space, haha. After my last Friday Favorites post I went and purchased three things on it (and then some). Yes, I've been very reckless with my shopping this month, and we are barely into it. Hopefully I wont follow suit with this post, but really, tell me you aren't completely in love with those Zara sandals?

Polka Dot Blouse, $50 at Mango
Tortoise Sunglasses, $13 at H&M
Box Bag, $30 at Target
Brass Earrings, $50 at Ink+Alloy
Topshop Satin Midi Skirt, $55 at Nordstrom
Leather Sandals with Geometric Heels, $90 at Zara

Linking up with
Jeans and a Teacup's Flashback Friday (one year ago today)

Friday Favorites

I've been bitten by the shopping bug, all the spring things are out, and I'm itching. Here are a few of my favorites for this week.

Polka Dot Dress, $178 at J.Crew
Linen Blazer, $90 at Mango Outlet
Tear Earrings, $50 at Mango
Recycled Leather Round Crossbody Bag, $98 at French Connection (use code bunny for 30% off)
Scalloped Edge Swimsuit, $30 at H&M
Vince Darlington Flat, $200 at Nordstrom

Birthday Wishlist

Is this a wishlist or a summer mood board? Maybe a little of both?
I know the raffia bag is basically a reimagining of the Japanese bamboo bag, which I have and therefore do not need another similar bag, but still, isn't she gorgeous?

When it comes to perfume I'm terribly picky, and I ordered a sample of Le Labo's Ylang 49 over six months ago. I apply it sparingly, and after much deliberation, I think I'm ready to commit. I don't need a size that large, which would probably last me for the rest of my life considering how little perfume I wear, that was just the better image - you know how it is.

The raffia slides popped up in a google image search for something entirely different, and you can imagine I was quickly distracted by them. My size isn't available online, but they might be in the store. I might want to go look for them. I'm not supposed to be shopping.

Thirty-three is now just two weeks away.

Argento Vivo Hoop Earrings, $20 at TJMaxx
Le Labo Ylang 49 Eau de Parfum, $189 at Nordstrom
Knot Jumpsuit, $80 at Mango
Raffia Bag, $130 at Mango
Alex + Alex Raffia Slide Sandals, $70 at Saks off Fifth

Black Friday Wishlist

I hope to everyone who celebrated, you had a lovely Thanksgiving! I still don't feel like I can fully wrap my head around the fact that Christmas is now just over a month away. There is always so much I want to do, and never enough time. I said I wasn't really doing holiday stuff on the blog, but of course now I want to, and I really would like to get at least one festive post up on Cooking in Cashmere, which has now been sitting neglected since the summer. Not to mention all the gift buying, wrapping, and holiday baking I'd like to do for my own simple enjoyment.

Every year Black Friday seems to start earlier and earlier, with realtors pushing sales all week, it's almost not even worth it to wait until Black Friday! I already noticed a couple things I really loved were already sold out in my size. However at some stores that little extra discount is worth holding out for. Naturally today is a hard day for me to not want to shop for myself, but I'm going to try and stay strong, get a jump on my holiday shopping, and in the mean time, share with you everything I would like to be treating myself to!

Madewell Texture and Thread Wrap Top, $35 - take 25% off with code dealwithit
ONA Palma Camera Satchel, on sale for $119 at B&H Photo
Banana Republic Wide Leg Pants, $90 - take half off plus an extra 10% for card holders
Mejuri Aries Signet Ring, $69 - take 10% off one item, 15% off two and 20% off three
H&M Floral Shirt Dress, $35 - take 30% off plus get free shipping with code 3238
Gorjana Cayne Crescent Pendant Necklace, $78 (you'd have to shop a bit more to get $20 off $100)
J.Crew Factory Velvet Pumps, $90 - take half off with code add2cart

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.

Birthday Wishlist

It's two weeks to my birthday, which means it's time to share a few things I'm wishing for this year.

Back in October I ordered a bike. In December it showed up on my doorstep, Sean and I put it together and I haven't ridden it yet. But warmer days are coming, and I'm going to need a helmet. When I found out I could have a gold one, naturally I put it on my list.

I'm feeling very swept up in all the new spring and summer things hitting the shelves as of late, but I'm trying not to indulge and only make purchases after I've considered how much use I'll get, how much I love it, and how much value it will add to my closet. Even if I don't actually receive any of these pieces for my birthday, I've definitely been considering them and would like to gratify myself with at least one.

Gold Helmet, $95 at Thousand
Mini Opal Ring, $82 at Moorea Seal
Lace Camisole, $29 at H&M (also like this silk one)
Rebecca Minkoff Gold Sophia Bag, $135 at Amazon
Marc Fisher Crisscross Slide, $140 at Nordstrom

Spring Fever

I know it's wishful thinking that spring will officially arrive next week and all the snow will somehow magically vanish and the flowers will spring up, and bare legs and sandals will prevail.

But while I'm daydreaming, here are a few pieces I'm loving right now!


Wrapped Hoop Earrings, $18 at Nordstrom 
Eyelet Off The Shoulder Dress, $90 at Banana Republic
Clutch, $45 at The Bagtique
Butter London Polish in Fancy, $18 at Nordstrom
Straw Hat, $29 at Sole Society
Floral Scarf, $48 at Banana Republic
Scalloped Cami, $38 at J.Crew Factory
Carlos Santana Pom Sandals, $69 at Shoebuy
Stella Tote, $95 at Boutique Mexico
Trina Turk Bracelet, $30 at TJMaxx

Wish List 2016

While I got all my gift guides up pretty early this year, I've been lingering on my own wish list post. A few things I "need", a few things for fun. I haven't had a pair of brown riding boots since 2011 when my last pair turned out to be so painful to wear I tossed them out and haven't looked back until now. I find myself craving the simplicity of the knee high boot and not needing to bother with the cuffing and fuss of booties.

I also really want the gold Suz Somersall necklace, which I've been wanting since 2014 I believe, and the Clip Clip Spoon. I'm not sure why I'm so infatuated with it, perhaps because it's gold, perhaps because I appreciate a clever design (no more open coffee bags or searching for your scoop!) or perhaps I've just lost my mind. But ask Sean and he will tell you I talk about the spoon daily.

I was also searching for a new planter for one of my house plants that is looking quite sad these days, and happened up the cute lady face planter on Etsy - isn't it just the sweetest thing?

Okay, last weekend before Christmas - time to really get stuff done!

Rebecca Minkoff Velvet Bag, $275 at Shopbop
Theory Asymmetrical Fringe Sweater, $150 at TJMaxx
Hay Clip Clip Spoon, $10 at MoMA Store
Badala Necklace, $88 at Suz Somersall
Coach Easton Boot, $160 at Nordstrom
Footed Planter with Lady's Face, $24 at Etsy

Friday five under $50

This week felt particularly long, and I'm feeling a bit of relief that Friday has arrived.

I'm really sorry but the fabulous tote has already sold out, however do check out the other pieces in the BP line, there are some very affordable and trendy things worth giving a glance.

BP Faux Suede Tote, $49 at Nordstrom 

Love Binetti Tassel Key Chain, $22 at Shopbop

Danielle Nicole Morning Light Cuff, $19 at Macy's

Field Jacket, $40 at H&M

Brinley Co. Fringe Booties, $38 at Amazon

Friday five under $50

Lately I've been finding myself drawn more to blacks and browns, just blame the inevitable pull of fall, as much as I deny it.

Can we talk about how cute the snail bag is? I mean, it's not quite as cute as the wicker snail bag Kate Spade had put out, but it's also $25 and not $300. However if you are really smitten with that design, I found a dupe on Etsy for $46.

The "Sidewalk Skirt" has been a J.Crew/J.Crew Factory mainstay for many years. I've always liked it, so much that I once did my own DIY version, which was surprisingly easy. Lately I've been missing my sewing machine, and contemplating getting back into sewing things, possibly even posting tutorials... what do you think?

Short Coat, $50 at H&M

Horse Ring, $38 at Banana Republic

Wool Sidewalk Skirt, $49 at J.Crew Factory

Faux Suede Tassel Loafers, $18 at Forever 21

Snail Crossbody Bag, $25 at TJMaxx

Friday five under $50

I shop too much. I know. I spend my days just thinking of what I will buy next, but rather than thoughtful purchases that will improve my wardrobe by filling a hole, I fall for a cute dress I might wear once a season.

I feel like I'm forever challenging myself to be more considerate of my purchases, but then there is a cute, cheap whatever staring me in the face that I can't say no to, and fail once again.

So here I am to tempt you with a few fun, inexpensive pieces, hopefully none of which I buy myself.

Dress With Frills, $36 at Zara
Ryann Crossbody Bag, $39 at J.Crew Factory
Pendant Necklace, $10 at H&M
Wool Fedora, $40 at Mango
Black Mules, $51 at ModCloth

Friday five under $50

It is the last weekend in August, and I'm attempting to bring back posts focused on some, you know, affordable things I'm liking at the moment. To be perfectly honest, these kinds of posts are the hardest for me because I get terribly distracted. I look through a lot of items trying to find a theme and keep with the price point and before you know it, it's past midnight and I barely have half the post put together.

But I am going to try, and since my mind could not be farther from fall, but the fashion world demands it, I think these would be some fabulous pieces to start wearing now and then transition into the cooler weather. Especially that bag, which is from Old Navy and it's going to take a lot of will power for me to not buy it right now.

I hope you all have some great plans for the last weekend of August, and if not, I hope you get to spend it relaxing, soaking up the sun while we've still got it.

Sashi Tassel Earrings, $42 at Shopbop
Tie Neck Blouse, $29.39 at Banana Republic
Calf Hair Mules, $39.50 at J.Crew Factory
Shimmer Skirt, $49.90 at Zara
Tassel Hobo Bag, $15 at Old Navy

Things I wanted to buy in May

Not shopping in May proved to be quite the challenge. Shopping has become part of my daily routine, and while I know I've got more clothes than I could ever need, the feeling like I need more never seems to subside (or at least it didn't all month).

I wish I could say that I was feeling pleased with myself for not buying all these items, but truthfully I'd like nothing more than to click "place my order" on all my virtual shopping carts.

Today as you read this I'll likely be waiting in a security check line at the airport, anxious to start my vacation, but still secretly wishing I had a comfortable pair of nude travel shoes, a trendy cold shoulder top, and a new bikini packed in my bag. Alas, I'll have to make due with one of the numerous lace tops, swimsuits, and flats I already own, and I don't know, maybe stick a tassel on something because as evidenced by my selection below, that is all I want right now.

Do pop back while I'm away, I've got several posts scheduled to go up!

Endless Rose Pom Pom Dress, $71 at Shopbop
Cold Shoulder Top, $30 at H&M
Lace Top, $35 at J.Crew Factory
Lace Skirt, $38 at J.Crew Factory
Nude Ballet Flat, $175 at Tieks
Straw Tassel Tote, $35 at H&M
Suede Tassel Slide, $49 at Ann Taylor
Report Lace up Heels, $89 at Amazon
Leopard Print Shorts, $30 at J.Crew Factory
Graphic Print Bikini Top, $25 at Target

Birthday wishlist 2016

With my birthday just around the corner, of course I have to share a little wish list. While it may have started off somewhere practical and attainable, it quickly departed into the realm of $700 sandals and $900 luggage. I must admit, if I had the means, I would absolutely love the Steamline luggage. It's vintage inspired with modern amenities, has a polka dot lining and gold hardware; pretty much a fashion girls dream. On the more affordable end of the spectrum, I found this Diane von Furstenberg set at Marshalls, and the largest suitcase was only $100.

Birthdays also tend to spark a lot of internal reflection, and lately I haven't been feeling very well. For months after I moved I started feeling sad and crying all the time, but I assumed I was just needing time to adjust and that it would get better. Time went on and I didn't, so I blamed the winter, but now it's spring (sort of) and still the days wear on and I get through them, but nothing more. I can't get passed these empty, lonely feelings, and if I were really to have one gift for my birthday, it would be to start this new decade of mine with the ability to enjoy each day and look forward to the next.

I suppose that is a bit deeper than I usually get on the blog, but I just felt like I needed to put it out there, so thanks for reading.

Bettle Stud Earrings, $28 at Banana Republic
Aquazzura Espidrille Wedges, $675 at Shopbop
The Starlet Spinner Suitcase, $895 at Steamline Luggage
Gold Vanity Tray, $20 at Target
Scalloped "Tilly" Clutch, $130 at Matine

Wishlist 2015

As much as I try to not shop for myself during the month of December, it's often quite a challenging task. Between shopping for others, and hypothetically shopping for others by putting together gift guides and then seeing everyone else's gift guides... it's all too much.

This is not a practical wishlist. With perhaps the exception of the iPhone case I'm not expecting any of these items to turn up under my tree. I suppose this is more of list for myself, and hopefully over time and price reductions, I can treat myself to them.

Since I have the apartment now, the item I want most is the brass and granite branch accent table. I first saw this in Home Goods December of 2012 and I still want it! I wish I'd pounced on it then, since it was only $180, but I'm pretty resolute on having it, even if I have to spend a little more.

A surprising inclusion to this list is the Fraiser Fir candle. This is surprising because I don't really like candles. However upon entering the Walker Loden gift shop in Madison Connecticut, and being overtaken by the most pleasant Christmas tree aroma, I was sold on this candle. Well, almost sold, because it retails for $60, which no reasonable person on a budget would spend on a candle, especially when you can walk into TJMaxx and have your pick for $10 or less.

The copper tea kettle is only slightly less frivolous than the candle, and my desire for it is directly attributed to too much Pinterest. Also for $160 it has a lot of negative reviews. But I'm not married to this particular kettle, and will most likely be keeping an eye out for a similar one at a better price point.

Continuing with the trend of things I don't need - another handbag! It's really pretty, and I don't have a bucket bag yet. But who knows, perhaps the trend will go stale soon and I will have done better to have invested my money in a timeless bag that is actually lacking in my wardrobe - a black clutch. The absence of one has become especially notable now that I no longer have access to my Mother's perfect one anytime I like.

Sashi Ava Ring, $35 at Shopbop

Chantal Copper Kettle, $160 at Williams Sonoma

Safavieh Branch Accent Table, $234 at Overstock.com

Kate Spade Floral iPhone Case, $40 at Shopbop

Ferca 81 Suede Pumps, $100 at TJMaxx

Thymes Fraiser Fir Candle, $60 at Amazon

Nate Berkus Upholstered Ottoman, $70 at Target

Marc by Marc Jacobs Bucket Bag, $468 at Shopbop

Gift guide for the gals

When it comes to shopping for the women in my life, the possibilities seem endless. Something cozy or festive, always with a touch of glam. I've been quite fixated on having everything black, white, and gold lately, so clearly that has come through.

I have such a weakness for Kate Spade, and for ornaments - I couldn't even pick just one to include. The gloves are cashmere, have touchscreen fingertips, and are steal at $25. A great stocking stuffer (or package topper) would be the monogram tassel keychain for $8.

For a bit of indulgence, I think the "'tis the season to eat chocolate" pouch would be infinitely better filled with the recipients' favorite kind of holiday sweet.

Kate Spade Ornaments, $25 at Neiman Marcus
Shiraleah Chevron Throw, $120 at Shopbop
Shiraleah Striped Mug and Dessert Plate, $40 at Shopbop
Tai Cupcake Necklace, $70 at Shopbop
Trés Chic Cashmere Gloves, $25 at TJMaxx
Dogeared Pouch, $28 at Shopbop
Monogram Tassel Keychain, $8 at Target

Getting ready for Black Friday

The biggest shopping day of the year is upon us, though it would seem most realtors can't even seem to wait and are rolling out the sales already. J.Crew Factory is boasting half off the entire store, Shopbop is offering their tiered discount, starting at 15% off if you spend $250, going up to 25%, and Old Navy in the same vein is giving 40% on purchases of $100 or more.

But I'm always looking to save more, and that is where Splender comes in. The cash back site is offering double the money back on every purchase made now through Cyber Monday, which means I have an even bigger incentive to do all of my Black Friday shopping in my PJs, on the couch with a latté in hand and hopefully a big pice of left over apple pie. Not that I wasn't going to do that anyway.

If you haven't signed up for Splender, now would be a great time to do it - you are going to shop anyway, why shouldn't you be getting cash back for it? Plus if you sign up with my affiliate link you will get a $5 bonus with the first $50 you spend.

Polished Casual

Plaid Button Down

Leopard Print Loafer

Grey Peacoat

Glamorous Gathering

Erickson Beamon Cocktail Ring
Ace&Jig Metallic Plaid Dress
Inge Christopher Box Clutch

Shopping via Couch
Fair Isle Sweater
Metallic Sherpa Lined Slippers
Lace Cammi

Set the table

As per usual, we are half way through November and I haven't even started writing gift guide posts, meanwhile I've already seen dozens. I suppose it's because I don't even think about starting my holiday shopping until after Thanksgiving, and completely forget that not everyone is a procrastinator.

This isn't a gift guide per se, though as much as it is a collection of items I would love to dress up my thanksgiving table with, several would also make great hostess gifts! So lets just check that gift guide off the list.

As much as I try keep my gift guides on the affordable side, every so often something ridiculous gets in, and such is the case with the hand nut cracker. Not only is it $200, but it's a device that no one even uses anymore. I just thought it was so delightful and cheeky, and with the logic that no one is cracking nuts anymore I feel safe that I'm probably not disappointing anyone. (Isn't is so depressing when you look at a gift guide and find that the one item you love is the most expensive of the bunch?)

On the other hand I think the slate cheeseboard you can get in the shape of any state for a mere $20 would be a fantastic gift.

Slate State Cheese Board, $20 at Uncommon Goods
Pumpkin Votive Holders, $40 at Pier 1 Imports
Silver Plaid Cocktail Mixing Glass, $6 at Target
Rifle Paper Co. Floral Coasters, $16 at Shopbop
Gift Boutique Liberty Cheese Set, $36 at Shopbop
Jonathan Adler Hand Nutcracker, $198 at Shopbop
Squirrel Nut Bowl, $35 at Pier 1 Imports
Copper Fig, $2 at Target
Silver Plaid Cocktail Glasses, $12 at Target

Winter prep

Ignoring the fact that it has been slightly seasonally warm lately, winter is still coming, and before I fall into my rut of sweaters and denim, I'd like to explore a few basics that can make even jeans and knits feel new and fun.

The back of this Clu Striped Sweater Dress is silk ruffles, so that is super fun. The rest is wool, and with those long sleeves all that's needed is a pair of tights to keep cozy. see more sweater dresses

Any excuse to make this Kate Spade Fox Clutch appropriate to carry around every day would work. It's just too cute. see more bags by Kate Spade

A pair of Hunter Shiny Red Rain Boots have been on my list for a while. They might be too much, so I haven't gotten them, but then again, they might be just enough when trudging through the white snow. see more Hunter boots

Silk might not be my first choice for a lining as it is in these Carolina Amato Blue Leather Gloves but the color is just too gorgeous. see more gloves

I know I would have too much fun walking around with this Kate Spade Umbrella, wouldn't you? see more umbrellas

Some prints were just made for the winter, and this Capulet Plaid Blazer demonstrates that perfectly. see more blazers

This post has been sponsored by Shopbop. Thanks for supporting the brands who support Chic on the Cheap.

I'm excited about Lilly Pulitzer x Target

Target has been patterning with designers to produce capsule collections for the masses since 2003, and I've greeted most of them with the same attitude - "I'll see if I like anything that is left by the time it hits the clearance racks."

Heading to the store at 8 am on the launch date, or stalking the Target website, desperately adding items to my cart as soon as the clock hits midnight has never been of interest to me.

What makes this Lilly Pulitzer collection different is not that I'm a huge Lilly fan. In fact, I do not possess a single Lilly Pulitzer item, nor have I ever even wanted one.

Until now.

The moment I spotted the first preview photos I was smitten. Perhaps in the winter doldrums I was extremely impressionable to the idea of bright and beachy, perhaps its because I am equally, if not more in love with the housewares included in the collection (hello pineapple serving bowl). Plus, there are beach chairs. My life will not be complete without the set.

While I'm pretty much in love with 90% of the collection, here are the items I will be scrambling to put in my cart come April 19th; may my wallet forgive me.

Fan Dance Shift Dress, $38
Pineapple Serving Bowl, $30
Patio Umbrella, $100
Upstream Pom Pom Shorts, $24
Giraffeey Beach Towel, $25
Set of Four Dessert Plates, $25
Giraffe Bottle Opener, $10
Happy Place Straw Tote Bag, $30
Teak Beach Chairs, $60 each

Preview the full collection at Target!