Check it Out: Sales & Such

A few things worth mentioning before the weekend:

Edit: Old Navy is offering 30% off select items in their store through the weekend (ends May 2). To get the deal online use code: ONBIG30.

Also, Shade is having a Mother’s Day Local Designer Market at their store in American Fork:


Susan will be there with her ridiculously awesome goods. So, if you have a chance I would check it out!

Also, don't forget that the LOFT is discounting all of their clearance an extra 50%! (In store only).

Any happenings you want to share? Planning on hitting any sales? Leave a comment!

Thanks for reading,

I hope you all have a lovely weekend!

Blog Love: Say Yes to Hoboken

Today's blog love feature is all about Say Yes to Hoboken.


Liz's blog was one of the first blogs I started following closely when I jumped into the blogosphere. She has a wonderful combination of content including DIY's, recipes, and shopping. Not only is her blog wonderful, she has a knack for pointing out other blogs worth reading (I can't tell you how many of my favs were found through one of her posts).

I especially like her DIY posts. Here are a few of my favorites:

{big bow pillow, ruffle v-neck tee, handmade clock}
Have any of you been following Say Yes to Hoboken? Any new blog loves you want to share with the rest of us? Leave a comment!

Styling

I have been working with Susan of Freshly Picked on her wardrobe and styling. Earlier this week she was invited to be a part of a news segment on Channel 2 news for DownEast Basics. She and I went shopping and picked an outfit out for the segment.

You can see what we picked out by visiting Susan's blog.

If you are interested in hiring me as a personal stylist, email me at uberchicforcheap@gmail.com for rates.

LOFT: 50% Sale off In-Store

I got an email from the LOFT informing that all sale styles in-store are now an extra 50% off.


Definitely a sale worth checking out! So many things I would love to get my hands on.

I Could Do That: Anthro Hummingbird Tank

I started coveting this top from Anthropologie weeks ago. I love the floral neckline so much it hurts.




{Hidden Hummingbird Tank - $78}
As soon as I saw that price tag I started plotting ways to make one of my own. Then I remembered this ridiculously awesome fabric that has been in my mother's fabric stash since about 1991.


It's a single side floral printed fleece. My mom said she bought it to make my little first grade self a sweat suit. So awesome.

So, I cut the flowers and leaves out to use in my design. I also cut leave shapes out of the solid blue portion of the fabric.


I laid the pieces out to decide what order I wanted them in. Then I pinned the shapes onto the shirt so I could begin sewing.


I used this button & carpet thread I had hanging around to hand sew the pieces onto the neckline. (I have no idea where this came from or why one would use thread on carpet. But it was in my Grandma's thread collection that I was lucky enough to inherit, along with my adjustable dressform. I owe almost all of my sewing equipment and fabric stash to the women who came before me. end tangent.)

I used a crew cut tee from wet seal that I got on clearance. I cut out the neckline in a scoop, and then sewed (2) 1/4" pleats down the front and back. If you also want the pleats (I am not entirely convinced they are necessary) sew them BEFORE cutting your neckline out, and if you are putting pleats in buy a bigger shirt than you need.




{crew neck tee, slub v-neck tee, scoop neck tee}
I added stitching around the edges while sewing the pieces on. Then, I added beading to the flowers.


Here's the finished product:

{photos courtesy of Jackie Norris}

I am sort of in love with it. It took me a long time to do, but I couldn't be happier.

What do you think? Anything you are craving to make this week? Leave a comment!

Thanks for reading!

Inspired: Anthro Look {Monochrome Art}

It seems that mixing prints is the thing this season. Many of the fashion bloggers I follow are experimenting with stripes & florals, or dots & stripes. (I however, have yet to leave the house in a mixed print ensemble. I put it on, and stare at the mirror for 5 minutes and replace my floral skirt with jeans before I leave.)

The latest batch of Anthropologie outfits revolves around the mixed print concept. This is the one that stuck out to me:


Here are a few pieces I think echo the feel of that outfit:


Floral-Print Fitted Cardigan - Speigal - $39.00 (Orig. $49.00)
AB Studio Dot Sheath Dress - Kohl's - $21.99 (Orig. $59.00)
Metal Clasp Stretch Belt - Charlotte Russe - $8.50
Wishbone Patent Wedge - Silhouettes - $14.99 (Orig. $34) - {this plus size store is having a huge $14.99 sale}
TOTAL: $84.48

What are your thoughts on mixing prints, have you been brave enough to try it? What do you think of the outfit?

Thanks for reading,

Happy Shopping!

Look for Less: J.Crew Pleated Lombard Ruffle Cardigan

I am absolutely giddy right now. I even made my husband look at this look for less and tell me how good it is, because it's that good. Ladies, I found the much sought after J.Crew Pleated Lombard Ruffle Cardigan:


Pleated Lombard Ruffle Cardigan - J.Crew - $118 (sold out)
ELLE Pleated Cardigan - Kohl's - $27.99 (Orig. $44.00) {also available in plus size}

What do you guys think? Is this something you would wear? Leave a comment!

Thanks for reading,

Happy Shopping!

Look for Less: Free People Leaf Bracelet

I saw this on the look 4 less, and thought I would pass it along:


Gold Leaf Bracelet - Free People - $18
Wrapped Leaf Hinge Cuff - Charlotte Russe - $4

What do you think? Is this something you would wear? Leave a comment!

Thanks for reading,

Happy Shopping!

Ann Taylor: New Sale Selection

I got an email from Ann Taylor yesterday, telling me that over 100 new styles had been added to their sale selection. I decided to check it out.


Here are the best finds:


1 - Drifting Pleats Skirt - $29.88 (Orig. $88)
2 - Grosgrain Flower Tee - $19.99 (Orig. $44)
3 - Modern Twilight Straight Leg Jeans - $39.99 (Orig. $88)
4 - Bow Front Cardigan - $29.99 (Orig. $58)
5 - Ponte Skinny Pants - $49.99 (Orig. $98) {the ever-versatile pants often seen on E. of academichic, 1, 2, 3}
6 - Ruffle Collar Jacket - $79.99 (Orig. $228)

I am completely in love with the straight leg jeans, and the bow cardigan, and the ponte knit skinny pants. What do you guys think?

Thanks for reading,

Happy Shopping!

Sneak-Peak: Anthro Shirt Look-a-Like

Here's a little peak of my weekend project.


I am so excited about how this one turned out. Look for a full post on it later this week.

XOXO

Reader Request: Navy Cardigans

On Friday, Paige made a comment on my wishlist post (for a red cardigan) that she desperately needed a navy cardi, and was struggling to find one.

I made the internet rounds for this request. Here is what I found:


1 - Ruffled Neck Cardigan - Old Navy - $26.50
2 - Picture Perfect Cardigan - Forever 21 - $22.90
3 - Crochet Trim Sweater - Forever 21 - $22.80
4 - Pointelle Trim Cardigan - Old Navy - $26.50
5 - Lightweight Boyfriend Cardigan - Old Navy - $9.99 (Orig. $16.50)
6 - Roll-Up Slub-Knit Cardigan - Old Navy - $26.50

Do you guys have a navy cardigan? Wish you did? Leave a comment!

Thanks for reading,

Happy Shopping!

Friday Wishlist: Red Sailor Cardigan

I want need a red cardigan. Can you guys believe that I don't have one? I can't. It's time to get on the ball and buy one. And look what I found:

{via stuff under twenty}
BDG Sailor Cardigan - Urban Outfitters - $19.99 (Orig. $38.00)

What do you guys think? Have a red cardi? want one? What's your fashion dream this week? Leave a comment!

Thanks for reading,

I hope you all have a lovely weekend!

Words of Advice

{via Le Quaintrelle}

I am loving this graphic.
It sort of reminds me of this super cool DIY poster from Lil Blue Boo. I am dying to make something similar, I just need to decide what I want mine to say!

DownEast Basics: Accessories

I am on a serious accessory kick lately! Yesterday I went to the DownEast Basics website and I decided I needed to do a post on their fabulous accessory selection.

Here are my finds:


1 - Bead & Crystal Bracelet - $7.99
2 - Yellow Bead Necklace - $9.99
3 - Silver Beaded Cuff - $9.99
4 - Graduated Bead Necklace - $12.99
5 - Leather Poppy Hair Pins - $3.99
6 - Beads & Crystal Necklace - $14.99

You can get FREE SHIPPING from DownEast Basics using code: ISLY

And there is a DownEast giveaway over at Melissa's fabulous blog, ISLY. So, head over and enter to win something fantastic.

What is your favorite accessory? I am totally loving those leather poppy hair pins, and you can hardly beat $3.99!

Thanks for reading,

Happy Shopping!

I Could Do That: LOFT Vines Tee

I ogled this tee at the LOFT the entire time it was in stock. After it sold out, I decided I would try my hand at making something similar.


I took a simple grey tee I had laying around, and added a a ribbon embellishment in the vine pattern. I pinned the crap out of it, and sewed a straight stitch down the center of the ribbon. It took a few hours, but was more tedious than difficult.


{tee + gathered ribbon}
Here is the finished product:


What do you guys think? Anything you are craving to make this week? Leave a comment!

Thanks for reading!

Look for Less: Rebecca Minkoff Satchel

Rachel sent me another great tip (from JCP again too!) this week.


Rebecca Minkoff Morning After Mini Satchel - Nieman Marcus - $550
St. John's Bay 'Alexis' Soft Leather Satchel - JC Penney - $39.00 (Orig. $65.00)

There are definitely some differences. But the overall look and idea is the same.

Is this satchel something you would own? Leave a comment!

Thanks for reading,

Happy Shopping!

Spied: Pear Shaped Collar Necklace

So, I am totally on a statement necklace kick lately. The bead shape reminds me of the Stormy Sea Necklace from Anthro in 2009.


Pear Shaped Collar Necklace - Forever 21 - $8.80

What do you think? Is this something you would wear?

Thanks for reading,

Happy Shopping!

Like a Star: Zooey Deschanel for Cotton

It's no great secret that I totally dig pretty much everything about Zooey Deschanel's style. From her blunt cut bangs to her wardrobe overflowing with vintage finds. If you have been reading this blog for some time, you might remember my, uh, obsession with her wardrobe in 500 Days of Summer.

Do you remember the commercials she did for Cotton? Some time has passed but I can't get it off my mind.


I especially loved this combo, as it combines two of my favorite things: cardigans & embellished shoes.


Here are a few pieces inspired by that ensemble.


Patent Peeptoes - Forever 21 - $22.80
Ruffled Button Front Top - Charlotte Russe - $16.00
Grand Dame Brooch Necklace - Forever 21 - $10.80
Crepe Chiffon Trim Cardigan - Forever 21 - $22.80

TOTAL: $72.40

What do you think of Zooey's style? Is this look something you would wear? Leave a comment!

Thanks for reading,

Happy Shopping!

Statement Necklace Styling Tips

After posting about statement necklaces earlier this week, many of you commented that even though you admire the look, you don't know how to wear it. I decided I would give some advice on how to best pull off the style.

Here are a few guidelines {link}:

1. Avoid mixing prints with statement necklaces. Solid tops and dresses in simple silhouettes and neutral shades will ensure that your necklace remains the center of attention.
2. Keep your neckline simple. Complicated necklines will interfere with your jewelry. Scoop, V-neck, and crew-neck styles work best to show off your neck area.
3. Limit other accessories. For example, avoid wearing chunky bangles, long dangling earrings, and trendy hair accessories in order to keep the focus on the necklace.
4. Keep in mind the proportions of the necklace and your body. If you're petite, then a necklace that drapes to your waist can make you look shorter. If you're long-waisted, then opt for a longer style.
5. Keep your hair simple and tamed. This will allow your necklace to take center stage.
6. Remember, it's a statement necklace, so let it do the talking.

Here is an outfit I put together around one of the necklaces from earlier this week.


Flower Statement Necklace - JC Penney - $14.44 (Orig. $34.00) {using coupon code SUR10MAR for an extra 15% off}
Casual Cotton Tee - Forever 21 - $4.50
Flirt Boot-Cut Jeans - Old Navy - $29.50
Faux-Leather Cross-Strap Wedges - Old Navy - $29.50
TOTAL: $77.94

A simple tee and dark rinse boot cut jean make for a great canvas for displaying the beautiful necklace. I added a bit of a punch with the teal platforms that tie into the necklace coloring.

So, what do you think of the tips? Does this look seem like something that you could wear? Leave a comment!

Thanks for reading,

Happy Shopping!

Spied: Flat Jocelyn Sandals

I think (fingers crossed) spring might have actually arrived in Utah. I say this with trepidation because it snowed on Tuesday - and I wore open toe shoes then anyway. I am effectively giving my winter clothes the boot. If I dress like it's spring, spring it shall become. Right?

With spring comes sandals. I have noticed the flat sandals with an enclosed heel at Anthropologie and Urban this season, and have looking for a more reasonable alternative. I was really happy when I stumbled on these:



Jocelynn Sandals - Forever 21 - $14.80 {also available in tan}

What do you think of the look? Is it something you would wear? Leave a comment!

Thanks for reading,

Happy Shopping!

eShakti Pleated Skirt Review

eShakti is an online store that offers customizable (that's what I said, completely customizable) clothing in an array of sizes and styles. I am sure some of you may have heard about this retailer as they have been making their way through the blogosphere. Recently, their marketing department contacted me and asked if I'd like to do a review of a piece of clothing. I was totally stoked to pick something out, and was pleased I had the option customizing it if necessary. I decided on this skirt:

{worn with Old Navy button-up ($8) Payless coral heels ($7)}Pleated Front Pencil Skirt - courtesy of eShatki - $69.95
When I ordered the skirt, I noticed that the skirt was meant to hit above the knee. I customized the order indicating I wanted the skirt to hit at the knee (and that I was 5'-4" - because even though I am 5'-2", I am way more leg than torso). The customizations turned out perfect!

I am so in love the architectural pleating and pockets. Not to mention the fantastic tulip shape. It's made of black stretch cotton with subtle lurex pinstripes and has a polytaffeta lining. The best part? It's machine washable.

I am pretty sure I will be wearing it almost constantly.



Why I think it's worth shopping eShatki: All styles are available in all sizes {0 - 26W} at all times. All orders {including custom orders} ship within three days, and even custom orders are returnable. New visitors to their site can receive a $15 gift card, just for registering. It's a very customer-friendly store.

Have any of you had any experience with eShakti? Would you be willing to pay a little more for a custom piece of clothing? Leave a comment!

Thanks for reading,

Happy Shopping!