Just For Fun



Smurfette Style: Accessories That Pop

via Harper's Bazaar



The Simpsons Go to Paris with Linda Evangelista

via Harper's Bazaar

I just love stylish toons, don't you?

(thanks for the tip, Sandy!)

Winning Wraps

Funny thing about this dress...I purchased it several years ago at Old Navy.  It was on clearance for $10.  I had to really think about it, even at that super low price.  I just wasn't sure if I liked the print or color scheme.  Considering the style (easy one-piece) and fabric (wrinkle-free), I bought it thinking it would be a good grab-and-go dress for those mornings when I'm...

a) in a hurry

b) don't feel like ironing

c) staring blankly into my closet abyss internally complaining that I have nothing to wear!

d) all of the above.   

Those mornings are somewhat frequent, so the dress came home with me.

It has served it's purpose and then some.  This particular day, I...

1) went to work

2) attended a class

3) went to an interview-thingy

4) took the dog to the vet

5) had dinner/music date with the hubby. 

This easy little $10 dress from Old Navy was appropriate and comfortable from 6am-11pm, and I got about a bazillion compliments on it.  THAT is one winning garment if I do say so...(I do). 

The most versatile and flattering wrap dresses will have particular design elements:

1)  sleeves (3/4 is my preference)

2)  slip or cami option (not necessarily the built-in kind)
3)  knee-length or slightly above
4)  wrinkle-free (poly-blends are the best!).

As a girl with an hourglass figure who wears many hats (figuratively and literally) in life, I find that wrap dresses play a vital role in my wardrobe.  Ms. DvF gets two thumbs up and a curtsy from me for this brilliant design.  What do you think of the infamous wrap dress?


Save Up To 50% Off In The Boden Summer Sale!

 
Dress:  Old Navy
Bag:  Target
Shoes: ?

*disclosure

Instagram: Currently Wearing

If you follow me on Twitter or Instagram, you know I like to post little detail shots of what I'm wearing on an almost daily basis.  Oh, the joys of the iphone.

Copycat: Stay or Go





I have decided that it's time for an upgrade on this blazer.  I like it, it's very versatile, but the cut is just too boxy and unflattering.  Even buttoned, it looks and feels bulky.

Being that this perfect gingham blazer is a whopping 70% off at Esprit Outlet online, you'd think I'd be all over that.  But blazers are one thing that I'm very wary about buying without trying on first.  I hate returns, even when they're free.

This skirt, also tempting, also 70% off, is being strongly considered because the pleated one I'm wearing is a tad too big.  I seem to fluctuate in size a lot and never know what to do with items that are a little too big or small.  Do I store them away figuring that they will probably fit again in a month...maybe a year?  Or do I consign or donate and eventually replace those items?  Steve and I use every last inch of storage space we have and I've been more inclined to simply get rid of stuff though constantly fighting the urge to hoard.  But then I think...it's just stuff, I should get rid of it.  I'm looking forward to reading Indiana's thoughts on this similar topic.

I'm finding lots of great buys at ESPRIT - Outlet store!!  If you ever consider buying something at the regular Esprit store (online), maybe just wait a month or two and you could find it for much less at the Outlet.  I love that most of their items are displayed in full outfits - lots of copycatting to be had (if you haven't noticed). 

Scarf:  Gap

Sweater:  Old Navy
Blazer:  Old Navy
Skirt:  H&M

Shoes:  DSW

*disclosure

Dapper Fam (Take 2)

Well, the fam isn't feeling so dapper today.  We're now dealing with a serious issue in Miles' eye.  It's one thing after another for my sweet alien.  Steve is very sore and achy from our riotous weekend. I'm stuck at work, worrying about my boys.  Trying to turn exhausted and frustrated into prayerful and optimistic.  It's a battle, but these pictures help...

*photos by Nick McMillan

Classic Pump

Ah, yes.  The classic pump.  This is my favorite type of shoe.  It's just so....classy (duh).  A no-brainer, looks-great-with-everything, never-out-of-style style.  They make my short legs look long and my ankles appear extra skinny - win!   

Jessica Simpson Collection is one of my favorite brands for pretty footwear.  I think the quality and comfort level is very good for the price...especially if you're watching for sales like moi.  These beauts are on sale for $50-$60 depending on color.  I have my eye on the taupe and navy.  Modern, navy pumps aren't easy to find in my world.  Of course, I'm likely to wait too long for the price to go down even further and miss my window of opportunity.  I'm cheap and indecisive like that.

Back to the conversation about my struggle with wardrobe basics...shoes do not apply.  How 'bout you?

JESSICA

*disclosure

Winners!

Let's get this Monday started off right, shall we?

The winners of the Green Dress Giveaway are...

Hope (S), karissajoelle (M), and Bev (L).

Congratulations, ladies!  Expect an email from me shortly.

FBFF: Blogger Gravity

Linkin' it up at Modly Chic today!

1. Since you began blogging do you notice a change in the types of things you gravitate towards while shopping?  Absolutely.  I never did a whole lot of remixing before I started blogging.  Now, when I'm shopping, I think, how many ways can I wear this?.  I also try to imagine how an item will look photographed, realizing that not everything translates well from real life to a picture.

2. Do you find, as a fashion blogger, that you dress differently from your family and friends? Do they comment on that?  Kinda-sorta.  Many of my friends are more fashionable than I am, so the way I dress is no biggie in my personal life.  I get the most comments at work where it's harder to blend in.  It used to make me somewhat shy and self-conscious, but I've learned to appreciate the acknowledgement.  'Fashion' applies to everyone (we all have to get dressed at some point) - even to those who aren't interested in it, and I love that what I wear often sparks fun conversation.

3. What’s the weirdest fashion that you secretly like, even if you aren’t bold enough to wear it?  Fanny packs!  Even wrote a post about it.  I really can't get over the convenience of it.  I've worn mine out a couple of times. 

4. Looking at current trends – what would you like to try but need to build up the courage to do?  Socks with open-toed shoes.  It's adorable on other people, but I haven't been able to get on board.  By the time I do, the trend will probably be O-U-T. 

5. Toot someone’s horn – what fashion blogger out there inspires you with her bold fashion choices?  As previously discussed with Erin....Beth at B. Jones Style pulls off the craziest stuff.  Like, how does she look amazing in these H&M jeans?  I tried them on and it was a mess!  Although my time for this amount of sauciness is long gone, I also enjoy seeing what Chloe at Urban Tease puts together. 

I'm gearin' up for one rowdy weekend!  See you back here Monday when giveaway winners will be announced!

Scarf:  Target
Shirt:  Target
Skirt:  Vintage, thrifted via Valu Thrift
Shoes:  Shelly's London via Endless.com

Leather and Lace

I love this outfit for several reasons, but mostly because 2 of my favorite vintage/consignment shops are represented here.  If you are a Twin Citian and haven't experienced Mighty Swell yet, what the heck are you waiting for?  The next sale is the weekend of July 23 & 24.  Best put that on your calendar now. 

My Sister's Closet is another treasure boutique that I adore.  Situated in a darling little house off of Grand Ave. in St. Paul, I walk in and it feels like home.  I spend most of my time upstairs amongst the vintage, clearance, and shoes.  They have a newer location in Uptown, Mpls. too, but I haven't shopped there yet.

For anyone who isn't familiar with the Twin Cities and is planning a visit, let me know.  I'll gladly be your shopping guide.  All I ask is that you buy me lunch.  Shopping makes me hungry.

Shirt:  Target

Vest-thingy:  Mighty Swell's sidewalk sale
Skirt:  Vintage via My Sister's Closet
Shoes:  Target

For the Locals: Washed

Did you see me?  The dorky one about 2/3 of the way through?  Good times.

This is my choir.  I've spent more of my life in it than not in it.  Even married the skinny guy with the bullhorn.  Go figure.

June 1, 2001, we did our biggest, most extravagant concert/live recording ever at the Fitzgerald Theater.  This weekend, we're reuniting to celebrate 20 years of existence and 10 years since the Washed album.  It's going to be a blast.  There may not be 3 costume changes and we're probably too old for some of those dance moves, but it's still going to be a freakin' fantastic time.

So if you don't have plans Sunday night, come on over.  Details here.

Blogtrotting

I found her blog through EveryBody EveryWear and absolutely adore her style....

Have you met Shen Dove?

Location: Washington, DC

Blog Name & URL: Shen Dove Style (http://shendovestyle.blogspot.com/)

Self-described style: I now gravitate to feminine and classic pieces with a touch of trendy items and lots of color! It has been a fun challenge to express my creativity through my style while choosing looks for my full time job which is not fashion related.

Always shopping for: Shoes! I love shoes of all styles for their ability to change the look of an outfit. I have a love for heels in particular for their ability to make me seem slightly taller (I'm a shortie).

Dream Profession: I don't really think I have a dream profession at this point, but a career that encompasses my love of social media, business and creative problem solving would be ideal.

Traveling Bag Progress!

Hey...it's been a while since the Traveling Bag for a Cause debuted waaaaay baaaaaack heeeeeeere.  It's been a little slow goin'.  Mostly due to my laid-back nature and forgetful ways.  HOWEVER, progress has been made.  The traveling bag has found it's way into 6 stylish closets thus far and it's on it's way to fulfill the rest of it's journey.  Would you like to be added to the list?  Read this.  Email me [spoilsofwear(at)gmail(dot)com].  Wait patiently.

Top left-right:  me, Kimberly, Erin

Bottom left-right:  Mary, Anna, Elizabeth

Copycat: Rolled Up

J.Crew

I've been doing this a lot lately...layering oxford shirts.  I find that it works best with light-weight camp shirts because they have the button on the arm that allows you to roll and tack the sleeves.  If both shirts have this, you can attach the tab of the inner shirt to the button of the outer shirt.  It's brilliant, you should try it.  And make sure the inner shirt doesn't have flap pockets (like these), or it might look weird. Weird isn't necessarily the goal here.

I should mention that something seems to have happened with Blogger's upgrade and I have not been able to comment on some of your lovely blogs ever since.  Unless I'm on my MacBook, I'm using some version of Internet Explorer and for blogs who use both Blogger's comment moderation and word verification, it sends me on an endless trip to Nowheresville.  I tested my own blog (though I no longer use word verification) and everything seems to be fine.  But if you do ever have issues here, please don't hesitate to email me.   This upgrade has been painful and I would hate for something to be wrong and not know about it.  This is supposed to be fun, not frustrating.  Right, Blogger!?

Speaking of fun...this silly pet alien of mine...for reals.

Hat:  PacSun

Blue Shirt:  Ralph Lauren, thrifted

B&W Shirt:  H&M

Shorts:  H&M

Shoes:  Target

Ex Target Cashier

This outfit isn't exactly cutting edge.  It takes me back to my Target cashiering days when I struggled to come up with khaki + red combinations that weren't baggy chinos and a polo. Despite my efforts, I don't think I ever came up with a winning ensemble.  

For some strange reason, I kept thinking I needed a basic khaki pencil skirt to add to my collection of wardrobe basics.  This was a month or so ago, not 10+ years ago as a Target employee, which would've made a whole lot more sense.  

I figured $15 for this one at Old Navy as worth it, but now that it's spent some time in my closet, I'm wondering why I ever thought I needed it.  Not that it was a BAD purchase.  Is there such a thing?  Enlighten me.  Sorry, that was my shopaholic shoulder devil speaking through my fingertips.  I just told her to shut her mouth and stop draining my bank account.  I'm onto her wicked ways.

All the "experts" say to invest in basics, but do you know what items go unworn the most in MY closet?  The basics.  Explain to me why this is, if you dare.

Shirt:  Thrifted

Jacket:  Marshall's

Skirt:  Old Navy

Shoes:  Jessica Simpson Collection

Chris Benz SS/11

I never follow designers, but Fifi Lapin (my favorite illustrated fashion blogger) turned me on to Chris Benz Spring/Summer '11 collection.  It's just too darn fabulous.  This is modern-retro designed to perfection.  I want to copycat every single look. 

Tassels.  Must get tassels.

For the Locals: Last Chance GIVEAWAY!

One last chance to win Cirque du Soleil tickets!  These will be for tomorrow's performance at 4pm.  'Like' Spoils of Wear on Facebook and comment on the giveaway post.  It's a wonderful show!  Don't miss it!

Greenie, Day 5: GIVEAWAY!

So, you like the green dress, huh?  Me too.  It's incredibly versatile and the color is so pretty.  Good thing for you I have an overstock of these dresses from a project my husband did a long time ago.  I hate to see lovely things sit in storage, unused, unloved.  I do believe this is the last giveaway I'll do for a green dress, so don't miss out!

I'm giving away 3 dresses - 1 small, 1 medium, 1 large.  Because it's jersey fabric, fit is fairly generous.  I'm 5'4", 125lbs. and I'm wearing a small in the photos above.  However, I wore a medium here and simply belted it for a closer fit.

The dress is Merona from Target.com, $30 retail.  These dresses have never been worn and still have the tags on.

To be eligible to win:

Comment on this post and tell me...

1.  How you follow Spoils of Wear -  GFC, Twitter, or Facebook.

2.  Which size you'd like to win (S, M, L).

3.  Your email address.

I'll announce the winner on Monday, 6/27.   Good luck!

Greenie, Day 4: Whew

Whew.  In all honesty, guys, it's been a rough week.  I'm so glad tomorrow is Saturday.  I'm sleepin' in. 

Wait.  What?  Today is Thursday?  Tomorrow is Friday and THEN Saturday?  Dang.  That 'whew' was a day too early then.  Scratch that.  Start over.  Rewind.  Rewind?  Don't mind if I do.  I love that store.

Now that I think about it, I should've known today wasn't Friday, because if it were, I'd be telling you how you can win one of these little green dresses I've been sporting all week.  I'm giving away THREE of them.  A small, medium, and large.  So you better come back tomorrow.  And just to be ahead of the game, follow Spoils of Wear on Google Friend Connect, Twitter, or Facebook. 

See ya Friday.

Dress:  Target.com

Sweater:  Target
Belt:  thirfted
Boots:  Madden Girl
Bag:  Ecko Red via TJMaxx