The Hunt for the Perfect Easter Dress

How many people have had trouble with finding dresses? I know, I have. Easter and spring seems to be the perfect time to start wearing dresses but it's not always that easy. Especially if you are looking for classy but not too frumpy, girly but not over the top. Here is my selection of favorite dresses right now. Hope you find something pretty for yourself!

Neutrals and Pastels

1 / 2 / 3 / 4 

Designer Look Alike For Less

Valentino // Marciano // Nine West // KOHL'S // Betsey Johnson 

Who hasn't drooled over the Valentino rock stud trend? Sure the fashion house has made every single accessory item with rock studs but it doesn't seem to slow down. From the previous fascination with Rock Stud Heels we have  jumped into bags. Or maybe I'm just catching up with the times. In any case, if you have been drooling over the studded bags but cannot bite the price tag, here are some alternative options for you. All at a (very) reasonable price.

PRADA // Ralph Lauren // Dorothy Perkins // Tory Burch // Ralph Lauren 

This Prada Tote has been on my Wishlist for a while. That is why when I saw a very similar in structure bag by Ralph Lauren, I knew I had to have it. It's a classic with a thick leather and solid design that won't go out of style. I have not had a purchase that I loved so much and that fit my personal style so well. I have worn it more than I can count! A brown satchel/tote is a must in any girl's closet. And if you are aiming at the lowest end of the spectrum, Target is always happy to provide cheap alternative ($34). 

Valentino // Seychelles // Halogen // Sam Edelman // Sole Society

I saved the best for last - the shoes. Who hasn't admired these heels by Valentino? Who didn't ever think about one day buying them? Well, guilty as charged. Here are some affordable alternatives that will make other fashionistas turn their heads. Snatch them up before they are gone! 

MORE AFFORDABLE FASHION TRENDS

Linking up with Mama and More
Enjoy the shopping!

xo, Anna

Spring 2015 Must Have Shoes

1 / 2 / 3 / 4 / 5 / 6 / 7 / 8 / 9 / 10

It's almost spring and that means, it's time to get your pretty shoes out. A lot of the trends are new this season but more are here to stay from last season.  The cut outs trend is definitely making a huge statement this season, with gorgeously cut out flat, booties and sandals.  Also, the gladiator sandals are here to stay but I'm not sure I how I fell about them. I definitely want a pair of cut out ankle but those really nigh sandals aren't my thing. But with the upcoming spring showers and a great thaw, you have to have cute rain boots - the classic that's going to make appearance season after season. I love this mint blue color from New Look and can't wait to get my hands on them, considering they are under $50! Another great shoe for transitioning into warmer weather is the Dr. Marten original from UnionJack Boots. With the different colors and pattern, you can pair them with almost anything. How about mixing dressed up looks with New Balance sneakers (also love these and these)? Totally in and so many fashionistas are rocking it.!

What's your favorite shoe trend for this spring?

xo, Anna

Linking up with Watcha Wearing Wednesday, Because Shanna Said So, The Pleated Poppy 

Floral Valentine's Day Look

dress: Lord & Taylor (similar, similar)
heels: Zara (similar)
clutch: Target
watch: FOSSIL

Nothing pleases the eye more than a gorgeous dress! My man always pays me tons of compliments for sexy, yet classy outfits. This Valentine's day is no exception and I hope the snow and chill will be bearable by Friday night because this dress is calling my name! 

Also, shoes! The shoes complete an outfit and without a killer pair. whatever suits your style, you don't have a gorgeous outfit. So here I have a selection of my favorite RED shoes for every taste.  

1 / 2 / 3 / 4 / 5 / 6 / 7 / 8 / 9 / 10 / 11 / 12 / 13

Enjoy and thank you for stopping by!

xo, Anna

The BEST After Christmas Sales

Didn't get what you wanted for Christmas? Didn't get anything at all? Or maybe you just got some gift cards you are itching to spend on stuff you really want? Whatever your Christmas may have been like, right now is the best time to shop! Honestly, the after Christmas sales are even better than before Christmas. Here is a list of the BEST sales out there, so get out and do some shopping!

LOFT - 50% off everything in stores and online (no code needed, ends 12/26) 

NORDSTROM - up to 50% off select items

Ann Taylor - biggest sale of the year 60% off everything (code: ANN60)

GAP - up to 60% off (prices as marked, ends 12/28) 

Old Navy - take extra 20% off already reduced items (ends 12/28)

J.Crew - 30% off regular priced items and extra 40% off sale (code: HOLIDAYTIME)

J.Crew Factory - take extra 30% off (code: HAPPYSALE)

Banana Republic: up to 50% off everything online and in store (ends 12/28)

Sole Society - up to 60% bags, shoes and accessories.

6pm - up to 70-90%  full price

Zulily - entire site blowout 80% off

Kate Spade NY -  extra 25% off online (code: JINGLE25)

Williams - Sonoma -  winter clearance 75% off and 20% of our annual White Sale

Piperlime - extra 60% off final sale (code: CHIC60) . HUGE!

Kohls - sale and clearance $10 off every $30 you spend (code: HAPPY2015)

Happy Shopping! 

xo, Anna

Fall Must-Haves 2014

1 / 2 / 3 / 4 / 5 / 6 / 7 / 8 / 9 / 10 / 11 / 12 / 13 / 14

For me, Fall always started with school year, whether I'm studying or not. It's always been the time for apples, hot cider and layers. We can definitely feel chill of autumn air every morning in these parts, and to be honest, I love it. Unlike summer, we have been having some golden fall days, filled with cool, crisp mornings followed by warm, sunshine-filled afternoons. 

I love it.

Also, on my radar, cooler tones and some layers. I always like styling my summer pieces for fall, layering cardigans and jackets. It's so much fun! This season I'm pretty much on board with all the trends like black and white, sneaker-shoes, leather, leopard print and floppy hats. And I may actually give camo print a try. Maybe.

I hope you see something you like, and get  some shopping done because the season is upon us. 

BUDGET TIP: for the trends that you aren't sure of (like leather) try your local consignment, or thrift store. You can buy the item and not feel bad about it if you end up wearing it only once. 

#happybudgetshopping

Thank you for stopping by and have a wonderful weekend! 

Hashtag Sale {Zara}

Zara Sale

It's Friday and what a better day to start with shopping. Zara USA is currently having a huge sale on everything, yes you read that right, everything! There is so many things to pick from and it's truly impossible to stay within a budget when shopping on their website. How about these red sandals? Love! And the black shopper? Swoon! Plus they have plenty of floral piece - everything from skirts to dresses and more. Also, don't forget they make some killer jeans which seem to have best reviews for quality and durability. Hope you have a great weekend and score some great deals. Anything on your radar from this amazing retailer? Do tell!

Winter Essentials

1/2/3/4/5

(From left to right starting at left corner)
1/2/3/4/5/6

1/2/3/4/5/6/7/8/9

I'm going to be taking the rest of the week off to focus on family and friends, to give God thanks for all that we have! Honestly, Thanksgiving is such an understated holiday (except the food gorging, of course) in a way that we really don't take the time to be thankful. Running errands, doing black Friday shopping, cooking the bird and entertaining guests all gets in a way of the true meaning of this day. So when you are enjoying your time with your family and having an abundance of food, remember to be thankful from the bottom of your heart and let everyone know. Go around the table and say one thing you are thankful for, I'm sure it will bring more holiday cheer and leave you with awesome memories.

With the holidays approaching and the temperatures dropping into single digits, the clothes have switched from glam to cozy and warm. Let's face it, in winter the outfit details aren't very obvious because we are bundled up under layers of coats, scarves and gloves. So the main outfit details for the winter are a coat, great looking booties and a killer handbag. These are some my favorites, raging in prices from bargain to expensive. Beat the crowds by doing some online shopping earlier in the week and have fun with it, don't stress because it's not worth it.

Happy Thanksgiving!

October {Budgeting Series}

plaid shirt - $14.95 (H&M)
brown boots - $33.95 (DSW)
black booties - $24.95 (Old Navy)
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------
TOTAL: $73.85

I can't believe we are in November already... The cold weather is upon us and I'm not a fan already. Honestly, when I sat down to calculate my total for this month, I could not think of anything else I bought except these three items. 

Well, technically I bought more (it was my birthday month after all) but ended up returning most of it. Like these Coach booties that I found in TJMaxx were gorgeous and comfy but the soles seemed too thin for winter. Also, the J.Crew crossbody had so many scratches on it, I had to return it. It seemed to have a very poor quality leather material.

I'm so happy I stayed withing my budget ($100) and to be completely honest, it's getting easier to do so. I'm forcing myself to wear everything I have, remixing and styling in different ways. Also, controlling myself at every sale sign and especially in Target helps a lot. Thinking critically about every piece and 'do it NEED it' or 'do I WANT it' approach is helping me avoid unnecessary purchases.

This month I'm all about winter staples which are going to last me for years to come. Since I have some gifts from my birthday, this month's shopping should be really fun. Will report back after Thanksgiving. 

Hope you have a great day, be inspired to stay withing your budget and link up below! 

July {Budgeting Series}

Another month, another budget. Blown out of the water. 

Partly because we were on vacation, so there was more time and opportunity to shop. So we did.

Then, our anniversary where we got a little pampered for a day, and hubby indulged my shopaholic tendencies. Here's to keeping my materialism in check. 

Dress (x2) - I found two pretty dresses at Lord and Taylor for $95.67. Partly it's hubby's fault, no wait, it's all his fault. He found cutest stuff and showed them to me, then I'm drooling. He was going to pick out a dress I would wear for out anniversary dinner and couldn't decide between the two. So with coupons and clearance it was a great buy. Worn one of them here and looking for another occasion to wear the other.

Kate Spade Wedges (similar)- these wedges ($63.74) have already been proven to be one of the versatile pieces in my closet. And they are super comfy. Win win!

Joe Fresh Blouse - got this cute top ($11.50) on clearance last in my size. Love the black and white contrast and florals.

Gap Sandals - I was pleasantly surprised to find a pare of comfortable, leather low-heel sandals at Gap for only $9.49. I've walked in them all day and my feet didn't hurt one bit.

Target Top - this item was not part of the plan. But it was only $5.89 and out of all the cute stuff I've tried on at Target, nothing fit me as well as this blouse. Go figure! Btw, I need to stop going there, it's a mine field of shopping waiting to happen.

Running Short ($12.00) - TJMaxx always has good quality gear for low price. Love that place!

TOTAL: $198.49
BUDGET: $100.00
OVER: $98.49 (double!)

Lunch Date {Look Book}

dress: Target
heels: Zara
tote: J.Crew
necklace: Bauble Bar
bracelets: T&J Design

Need a perfect outfit for a lunch date to catch up with the girls?

Why not go for a high-low maxi and high heels!

I love the mint and nude together and those heels are absolutely gorgeous! 

Have a great day!
And maybe have a lunch with a girlfriend?

Modern Americana

dress: Gap 

sandals: Aldo

tote: Old Navy

hat: J.Crew

necklace: J.Crew Factory

Happy 4th to you lovelies! Hope you are enjoying some sunshine, delicious food, and time with family and friends. And since this blog has a sense of style, here is an inspiration for your outfit of the day.

There is nothing more American then jeans and red,white & blue. This look embraces the modern take on patriotic USA colors, in a very obvious way (hello flag bag).

Have a great day! 

June {Budgeting Series}

June was a good month with some great finds. Considering that I returned this dress from last month's purchases (it was on the back order until the end of July) and had a little more this month, I feel like I'm finally getting the hang of this 'shopping on the budget' thing. 

Anyhow, last month was really good - here is the update.

Let's see how I did this month.

Mint Dress (Dorothy Perkins $43.78) - I actually bought a little darker shade of mint (on sale w/ free shipping) but it sold out already. Loving the color, length and cut - perfect pencil dress for any summer occasion. 

Striped Maxi (Target $29.99) - Loving how the chevron pattern in front slims the figure and that it has a sleeve. It's so comfortable, I've already worn it one too many times.
Purple Shorts (J.Crew 19.99) - I love the cut and feel of these Bermuda shorts and since I'm wearing my grey once non-stop, I thought a bright pair will get a lot of use as well.
Pink Tee (Target 10.99) - Don't have a pink top. Must. Have. Pink. The. End.
Beige Shorts (Banana Republic $49.50/thrifted $4.99) - I wanted to get couple shorts in neutral color and a trip to thrift store proved itself worthy of these cute shorts. Comfiest party yet.
Sandals (Coach $59.00/TJMaxx $20.00) - these are the cutest flip flops that I have ever owed. I love that they are super comfy, have a bow and perfect for a busy mama's summer wardrobe. Plus they were on clearance. Why not?
Sequin Skirt (Club Monaco $199/thrifted $5.99) - when I saw this skirt, I knew I had to have it. It's a perfect party skirt and for a great(!) price. I already wore it for my mom's bday party and planing to find more uses for it. Outfit post is coming soon.
Basic Tee (Target $6 x2) - definitely need tees for everyday comfortable wear. Especially when baby spits all over ya and you have to change it at least once a day.

Total: 146.73 - 16.78(carry over from May) = 126.95
Budget: $120
Red Zone: $6.95
Carry Over: None

What To Wear: Summer Wedding

dress: Dorothy Perkins

shoes: Aldo

clutch: Nordstrom

necklace: Bauble Bar

sunglasses: Les Nouvelles 

Summer is here and the wedding season is upon us! Every time I have a formal event to go to, I reach for a dress. There is something about wearing a dress - it gives you super feminine powers. 

Here is an elegant look for any summer soiree on your social calendar. 

I especially love the color and cut of this dress. It's light, summery and very classy.

Happy shopping!

What She Wore

For a first time mama and fashionista like me, it's a bit challenging to find the balance between comfort and style. Comfortable fabrics, no fuss tops, minimal jewelry and closet staples are my go-to pieces when getting dressed. Check out these must-haves in any mama's closet.

- you've got to have plenty of tees, as they go with everything and can be dressed up or down, with skirt, shorts or pants

- a maxi dress when you simply don't have energy to dress up is a must for any mama

- chambray shirt goes with everything

- pair of comfy, appropriate length shorts

- a small floral cross-body satchel that's sure to dress up any plain outfit

- have to have jeans (in light wash for summer months)

-  cute floral dress for going to dinner with hubs or having friends over for bbq

- protect your eyes from sunshine with these cute cateye sunglasses

- when you need to go up the stairs carrying that car seat, or chasing your little one down the street you need to be wearing cute pair of nude flats

- maxi skirts are like grown up fancy pajamas that hide unshaved legs

- when it's hot and got lots to do it's sandals time

- having a little ones means they will be tugging and pulling on your statement jewelry left and right, so a simple bracelet is a way to go 

- last but not least, dress up any good ole t-shirt with a scarf that has a fun print and you are ready to go

Hope you are having a great week!

May {Budgeting Series}

Another month has come and gone, and it's sad how fast time is flying. Although, somehow, in those 30 days I manage to spend all the budget money and then some.

It's time to fess! This month it has been so so so hard to resist those sales! Tons of sales. Or it just feels like everything is on sale when I can't buy anything. Ha!

Target is a place where all my dreams of staying within the budget go to die. I have to force myself not to go into clothes section because I will always find something cute/cheap/interesting. Seriously!
Their new home collection had me at the first glance as well. Let me just say that target is stepping up its game and I'm loving it. But my RED credit card, not so much. So here is the beak down.

- Most adorable seahorse sweater ($15.00) I've ever seen. I mean, how cute is that? 

- A couple of really comfy Ts on a really good sale. #1 ($4.19) and #2 ($4.89).

- These ($19.64) pants had me at the very first time I laid eyes on them, but hubby wasn't convinced. I wore them to a date night and he wasn't sure why I was wearing clown pants. Men (rolling my eyes)

- I love the mint and navy color combo so when I saw this ($10.00) shirt on sale at Target (haha. where else?) I had to grab it. 

- I've been looking for a versatile summer dress for a while now. I do have few floral ones but wanted something that can be worn a lot. I've been eyeing this ($39.75) dress for a while but didn't want to pay the full retail so when it went on sale, I had to get it. Granted, if it doesn't fit right, I'm sending it back, since we don't have J.Crew Factory close to us.  
UPDATE: Returned the item

- The same thing with these ($23.50) shorts. I actually had the same pair for years in white but I don't fit into them (yet). Plus I can't be wearing white garments with infant in my lap. A recipe for disaster. 

- Lastly, I wanted a pink statement necklace. Don't get me wrong, I love jewelry, I just don't think that spending more then $20 on piece of metal (no matter how pretty it is) is a very bright idea. So it's cute ($6.00), pink (not online) and cheap.

TOTAL: $122.97 - 39.75 = 83.22

Budget: $100.00

Red Zone: None (yay!)
Carry Over: 16.78

Here's to the new month of spending and saving! 

Bargain Finds /Summer Shoes/

Welcome to a new week! Or is it it still weekend for you?  Have you ever looked at some of the high end bloggers and wished you had one of the items they are wearing?  Well, wish no more! I found couple bargains for your long weekend that's sure to include some shopping. Enjoy! 

Paul Andrew Wedges vs. Forever21 Peep Toe Wedges

Granted, the thousand dollars version is made out of the best leather and probably feels like you aren't even wearing high heel, but this is a pretty good like-alike. 

J.Crew Espadrille vs. Old Navy Wedge 

Love the J.Crew wedge and how they look, but paying such a high price for short life of espadrille isn't on my budget, so here is a cheaper Old Navy version. 

Paul Green Espadrille Wedges vs. Ralph Lauren Iliana Wedges

I'm loving the navy and white look of these wedges, and they would be perfect for summer. I don't see how these differ by more then one hundred dollars except as the brand name.

So with these deals and steals enjoy some shopping regardless which one you will pick. 

Have a great day BBQing, enjoying family time and maybe some retail therapy.

P.S. I've been sick as a dog last couple of days and still not feeling any better. Going to take a break from outfits and blogging this week.
Now don't go anywhere, I'll be back in a little bit. 

Celebrate Mothers {Gift Guide}

elegant women's Emporio Armani watch
sleek and bright Kate Spade NY wallet
rose gold pave bracelet 
cat eye DKNY sunglasses
leather neon envelope clutch
gorumet rose petal petits fours

Mother's Day is just around the corner and for some of us, it's a last minute shopping spree, where we frantically run from store to store trying to find something special. 

Thankfully, I have already got our moms (my mom and MIL) something very special (read: photobook of Jonathan's baby pictures. Awwwwww.), so I'm all set. Although a box of gourmet chocolates and bouquet of fresh flowers is a must. 

So for those of you who haven't picked up a gift for mom, or the woman in your life who you consider to be your mom, or that first time mama who is over the moon in love with her baby, or the tired and worn out mama, who hasn't had a day off in ages - here's a gift guide that will please them all.

 Including myself. //hoping hubby is reading this//

This weekend is all about honoring the women in your life who do so much, who sacrifice and give. And give. Let them know how much you appreciate their care and constant unending labor of love. 

Mothers. They do so much! They deserve a day in a year all to themselves! 

Have a great weekend! 

P.S. And don't forget a card. She will love those thoughtful little details.

Love Me Some Maxi

Considering that I'm on the budget now, I HAVE to think about every item (I mean every single thing) when I buy it. So to make sure that my buys are good investments and will serve me the entire season or two, I have been doing a lot of scouting. It used to be if I needed a maxi dress, I just bought whatever I saw first and then if something better came up, I bought that too. And on and on. 

Now, it's a whole different story.

So there are couple things I'm considering purchasing next month and one of them is a versatile maxi dress. Therefore I have come up with a few choices that fit my budget. Take a look.
Maybe you will find something you like?  

1. Tank Maxi - perfect for a beach vacation, can be dressed up with a cardigan or down with jean jacket for a night out. Love the Ikat stripe and different shades of blue

2. Grey Floral - the neutral color pallette makes it so versatile and you are ready for anything in a minute. I love the print and it will be great on any curvy figures.

3. Long-Sleeve - I love everything about this dress! The colors! The floral print! The modest neckline and the sleeve length! The only thing that's stopping me is the price - do I want to shell out a month's  budget on one dress? #undecided

4. Casual Jersey - this is an everyday, going to the store, running errands or lunch with girlfriend kind of dress. Love the subtle print and that it has short sleeve.

5. Kimono - this dress reminds me of Japanese style dresses, with wide sleeves. Although it's more modern and has a lovely floral print.

6. Date Night - this dress would be perfect for a any special occasion and has a very flattering bustling. Plus Navy blue is not as boring as another black dress.

7. High-Low - although this dress is from the Maternity Collection, it's got great color and colorblocking going one. Then it's high-low, which has caught my eye. Just gotta wait until it goes on sale! 

8. Lemon Lime - This color is absolutely gorgeous! It's a simple yet stunning dress, perfect for summer BBQs and road trips.

DON'T FORGET TO ENTER GIVEAWAY TO WIN J.CREW GIFTCARD HERE! 

HURRY ENDS TODAY!

April {Budgeting Series}

1/2/3/4/5/6

We are here again! I mean, time just flies!

I don't know how it happened but I ended up doing some shopping this month. Couple trips to the mall to get a birthday gift and Jonathan's outfit for his blessing, then shopping trip with sista and I'm maxed out!

Time to fess up. And I did pretty good! YAY ME!

I was in desperate need of chambray top and scored one with polka dots (major bonus!) at TJMaxx for only $19.99 but here is a similar (and three times more expensive).

The trip to Forever21 produced skinny dark denim, lemon cardi, white blouse with black trim (worn here not online) and a lace top for under $70. Talk about a score!

Then shopping for Jonathan I scored polka dot top (#6 similar) on a major sale $22.60. 

Adding to my collection of mint things are these flats, which are very comfortable. I think of all the flats I have ever owed, these are the best. They have a small platform which you can't see but which makes walking for long periods of time a breeze. Best investment so far.

Budget Total: $100.00

Spent: $126.60

Well, before going shopping I shared with hubby my projected budget and he said that I should go and enjoy myself (whaaaat? he wasn't trying to stop me?), as well as add $20. 

So I stayed within my budget with only $6 over.
I'm happy to be at this point and glad I stuck to it! 
I'm currently in a process of re-organizing my closet and figuring out what I need for the summer so I can do smart shopping this month. But it's going to be so hard with amazing summer deals and gorgeous dresses all over. More trips to the park and less trips to the mall.
That should do it.

P.S. P.S. I am linking up with my monthly shopaholics budgeting group hosted by Franish, 

see more budgeting bloggers right over here. Enjoy!