I Wished for Snow and Got a Blizzard!

Every time I visit New York for the holidays, it doesn't snow. Well, I got my wish...and I got it BAD! Due to the record level snow storms, I've been stuck in the City for the past two days. Several airports have been closed because of the icy runways and two of my flights have been cancelled. Wish me luck as I was able to secure a flight back to Florida tonight.

Photos taken from NYTimes.com

Thank God for WIFI in the airport :)

xoxo, Natasha

I'm Off to NYC...

Rockefeller Center / Courtesy of Webshots

I'm off to spend the holidays in New York City! I hope you all enjoy the time you spend with loved ones over the next few days! Merry Christmas, Happy Hanukkah, Happy Holidays!

xoxo, Natasha

Zumba & My Two-Week Shopping Haul

I woke up early this morning. I've been back on my workout schedule and biked for two miles. I even started Zumba classes yesterday at my local gym. If you love to dance and need a little encouragement, this class is the answer! I must have worked every muscle in my body. But the best part is that you don't even realize it when you're working out. My Zumba instructor is amazing. I can't wait for my next class!

Is it just me, or do you find it difficult to not purchase anything for yourself when trying to shop for others? Over the past two weeks, I have slowly accumulated some items I'm thrilled about. With all the online deals and the in-store promotions, what normal person doesn't take advantage it? (This is what I tell myself every day...haha). Here's what I've hauled over the past two weeks:

I purchased this cardigan from Target and fell in love with the silver sequences. It wasn't until I tried it on that I was greeted with "puffed" shoulders (one of my favorite things).

I don't need a black dress. Quite frankly, I have enough black dresses and I've been trying to stay away from the color black. I have so much black in my closet. But, I couldn't resist. The sequent applique shoulders added such a nice touch, and this simple black dress can easily be worn to work or a night out with the BF. (Target)

This top is so much cuter in person. I purchased it from Forever 21.

 I can't wait to wear this necklace. I found it tucked into the corner of the jewelry displays at Target.

This Forever 21 leopard skinny belt will go nicely with the simple, black dress dress I purchase above.

The BF picked this one out for me at Forever 21. The ruching is gorgeous and the exposable zipper on the back adds a little edge to it.

I've been looking for a jewelry display for some time now. Luckily, I was able to find one at Macy's that was tall enough to hold my long necklaces. It sits nicely on my dresser and it is so much easier looking through my jewelry in the mornings.

Just one more day and I'm on my way to the BIG Apple. I can't wait to spend some time with my family! For those of you who live up north, should i pack anything special?


Ciao, Bella!

xoxo, Natasha

Current Obsession: Clay Jewelry

I am a BIG fan of Vanessa's beauty and fashion blog, Ramblings of a Makeup and Shopping Addict. I've always been amazed at the cutest craft projects she would share with her readers. Just recently, Vanessa opened an Etsy shop, where she sells handmade clay jewelry. Here's just a dabble of what she can do:

Once I saw Vanessa's first clay post, I quickly sent an email to see if she would accept a custom order! She was thrilled about the challenge of creating GATOR charms for me. I even requested gold hardware and it wasn't a problem! Within just a few days, I received an email that included photos of what she created and the charms arrived in less than a week of making payment. I am VERY pleased with her work and she is EXTREMELY talented. The jewelry is made soooo well, and I can say I was surprised with the amount of detail in each piece... I can't wait to wear my charms next football season!

Oh, and I have great news! Vanessa is extending a 15% discount on all orders for my blog readers until Christmas Eve. Visit her blog or Etsy shop if your interested, and mention twenty-something blog to receive your discount. The charms, earrings and bracelets will make great gifts for the Holidays :).

Enjoy your weekend ladies!

xoxo, Natasha

Mission Accomplished!

Hello Ladies! I hope you are having a great start this week. I definitely am! Last week I literally locked myself in the house and studied for my FINAL EXAMS. I procrastinated a bit, but it all turned out really good for me. My grades were posted to my official transcript, and I earned two A's this semester! Sweeeeeeeeeeeet :). Now I can REALLY begin to enjoy the Holidays.

Next week I'll be flying to New York to spend time with family. I can't wait to enjoy shopping in the City...there's nothing like it! I fly back the following week, then I'm off to California for seventeen days! Yikes! I'll be working on a fun project for work, and I'm definitely ready for a new challenge.

Outfit Picks :: Since the weather has been extremely cold here in Florida, I've been wearing a lot of black lately -- a lot of my "winter" clothing is black. In an effort to bring out some color, I paired my black pants and turtleneck with a wool cape.

Top :: JCrew (purchase here)

Coat :: BCBGeneration

Pants :: Ann Taylor, Signature Fit (last seen here)

Shoes :: Nine West (last seen here)

Handbag :: Coach (last seen here)

Are you planning any trips this holiday season? 

This week is flying by! Before you know it, it'll be Christmas. Wow! I still have some Christmas shopping to do.

xoxo,

Natasha

Ps. I returned the black pumps I purchased from Target last week. I wore them around the house a few days ago and...Ouch! The most uncomfortable shoes ever. You get what you paid for...especially when it comes to shoes.

Outfit Picks: Burrr....it's Cold Outside!

I'm a little excited this week! We are experiencing real December weather here in Florida. The temperature has even dropped to 40 degrees [that's cold for us]. Wow! There is nothing like a cold front to put me in the holiday mood!

Top :: Forever 21

Skirt :: Forever 21 (last seen here)

Shoes :: Jessica Simpson "Rachella" (last seen here)

Necklace :: Ann Taylor Loft

Tights :: Express

Handbag :: Coach (last seen here)

How cold is it in your city?

xoxo,
Natasha

Have You Heard?

Anne Hathaway and James Franco will host next year's Oscars! She is always so glamorous on the red carpet and her makeup artist deserves a mention as well. Leslie Lopez does such an amazing job of keeping Anne age appropriate and a little spunky at times. She never looks "too" made up... always very natural. I absolutely adore her style and can't wait to see her outfit changes! :)

Outfit Picks :: I was in a black-and-white-kind-of-mood today! I just didn't want to wear color! Do you ever get in those moods? I forgot to coordinate my outfit last night, so I made a quick decision and reached for my zebra printed silk tank and new black pants.

Top :: Love Couture (last seen here)

Pants :: Ann Taylor (last seen here)

Cardigan :: Banana Republic (last seen here)

Shoes :: Nine West (last seen here)

Many articles claim that the Academy's decision to have Anne and James host the Oscars was to attract a younger audience. So I'm curious...will you be watching next year's Oscars?

xoxo,

Natasha

Black Friday Woes and My FIRST Pair of Flats

Black Friday was rather uneventful for me. A group of us headed out for the malls at 12:00am and literally spent all morning weaving through the crowds of people. I was on a mission to purchase Christmas gifts, but just couldn't find what I was looking for. While the sales were a little tempting...for some reason, nothing really made me jump for joy! Except for something unexpected...

I know this sounds crazy, but I did not own a pair of flats before Friday morning. I have nothing against ballet flats...in fact, I think they look adorable! I just haven't found a pair that doesn't look like bananas on MY FEET. lol. I only wear a 5 1/2...i must be delusional! Anyhoo, I found a pair of leopard Guess flats at Macy's...in my size. As soon as I tried them on, I was in love. It gets better ~ They were on sale for 50% off and I had a 20% off coupon to use as well :). Say hello to my first pair of flats...

Outfit Pick :: Today was the perfect day to wear my new Ann Taylor dress and Nine West suede pumps. The heels are much shorter than most of my shoes ...only 3 inches, so they were perfect for a long day at work!

Dress :: Ann Taylor (last seen here)

Shoes :: Nine West "Ambitious" (last seen here, purchase here)

How was your weekend of shopping?

xoxo,
Natasha

I am Thankful

It's the day before Thanksgiving, but I wanted to say THANK YOU to all my readers. I truly appreciate all your comments, suggestions and sweet emails you send me. I really enjoy the friendships I've made and the insights gained. For one, I'm definitely a smarter shopper because of YOU! :)

I have a ton of family coming into town tomorrow and my parents are preparing a large feast. While we should all feel lucky to have family and friends in our lives everyday, it's times like these that you learn to appreciate what's really important.  

MORE THAN A DAY

by Karl Fuchs

As Thanksgiving Day rolls around,

It brings up some facts, quite profound.

We may think that we're poor,

Feel like bums, insecure,

But in truth, our riches astound.

We have friends and family we love;

We have guidance from heaven above.

We have so much more

Than they sell in a store,

We're wealthy, when push comes to shove.

So add up your blessings, I say;

Make Thanksgiving last more than a day.

Enjoy what you've got;

Realize it's a lot,

And you'll make all your cares go away. 

Outfit Pick :: With a little inspiration from JCrew.com, I decided to wear my yellow argyle sweater and khakis!

MY TWIST:

 Tank :: American Eagle (purchase similar here)

Cardigan :: Target (purchase here)

Pants :: Old Navy (purchase similar here on sale)

Shoes :: Jessica Simpson (last seen here)

Handbag :: Louis Vuitton Neverfull

What are your plans for Thanksgiving? What are you most thankful for?

Wishing you and yours a safe and Happy Thanksgiving!

xoxo,

Natasha

Am I an Addict?

Who goes shopping the weekend before Black Friday? ME! Why? I’m not quite sure. I skedaddled to the mall this weekend and was overwhelmed with some really good deals. While one part of my brain wanted to grab me by my wallet and pull me out of the mall, the other part was ecstatic about the prices flashing before my eyes. When I find myself in these situations, I often wonder…am I a shopping addict?

I purchased this dress from Ann Taylor and I have to tell you, I would have never thought about trying this dress on until I saw it being worn by a woman in the dressing room. It’s one of those pieces that look “not so hot” on a hanger but “amazing” on a person!

….A pair of black work pants with pockets from Ann Taylor. Can you ever have enough? I love the “Signature” fit line. I have three pants in this style - it fits my body so well.

Nine West is one of my favorite shoes stores. As soon as I walked in, I darted for theses boots. Unfortunately my size was not available, so I continued to look around. It only took five minutes for me to fall in love with the pumps they call "Ambitious". I love the dark tan color and the suede is perfect for the fall. Not to mention that these darlings will go perfectly with my dress! …and at 40% off, you just can’t go wrong!

A ton of Tucker for Target Collection items were on sale at my local store, so I grabbed this blouse for $8. I never tried it on until I came home, only to realize it’s a bit baggy on me. It’s meant to be baggy, but I’m not sure if I can pull off the look. Do you own this blouse? Please share photos. I’m dying to see how you styled it.

….also picked up this Tucker halter for $6. Can’t wait for the spring!

Lastly, I found myself at Old Navy to pick up a few sports bras! I saw this cute corduroy skirt. I don’t own anything in corduroy (surprised?!), so this was an easy choice...

I can’t wait for this Friday! A bunch of us will be heading out to the malls Friday morning at 12:00 Midnight. Yep I said it! I’m one of those “crazies” that actually enjoys the madness. My friends and I have already composed a strategy. The plan is to hit 3 malls in 5 hours. Wish me luck!

Will you be shopping this weekend?

Xoxo,
Natasha

Happy Hour with the Boss

One thing I love about my new job is the people. Everyone is personable and likes to have a good time. The mentality around the office is to "WORK HARD AND PLAY HARDER." I think i'm fitting in pretty well, if I don't say so myself ;).

After work today, the marketing department headed over to a local happy hour spot. Live music, half off drinks, appetizers and a boss that is picking up the tab EQUALS a GREAT time. Our group was able to bond and I learned a lot about the industry and our organization. Can't wait for more happy hours! ;)

Outfit Picks: Here's what i wore today to work! I usually wear this dress with a skinny belt, however, I decided to switch it up and pair with a blazer.

Dress :: Banana Republic (last seen here)

Shoes :: Michael Kors (last seen here)

Blazer :: Express

Do you go on outings with your co-workers?

With the boss?

Natasha xoxo

A Trip to Old Navy

I rarely visit Old Navy. It always seems like a hit or miss for me. Sometimes they have great items that I cannot wait to try on. Other times, I literally walk around the huge store [empty handed] and wonder why I even thought about coming.

Yesterday's trip was a good one. Old Navy had a sale this week that ended today - Receive 50% off for any outerwear purchase. On a Tuesday night, the store was packed. Items were scarcely hung on the racks and anything I was remotely interested in was only available in XXL. Things were looking a bit meek until I strolled over to the Children's section, only to find a number of adult jackets and coats thrown on a table. BINGO! The perfect fall wrap sweater and a brightly colored peacoat!

I would have preferred a sweater with buttons, however, I am just thrilled I found something so cute and comfortable at the same time. Can't wait to wear it to work. It'll keep me warm in my freezing cold office. -->Purchase Similar Here.

I know, I know...I already own a peacoat. And, who would purchase a yellow one?!? ME! Yellow is one of my favorite colors and for only $35, it was a steal. I love the big brown buttons, the frilly neckline and the yellow lining is gorgeous.
 -->Purchase Here.

I'm still on the hunt for a longer peacoat - What I originally intended to purchase yesterday ;). I'll take another trip this weekend. Hopefully they have more merchandise by then.

Have you visited the Navy lately?

Natasha xoxo

I'm on a coat hunt.

Yes, It's true...I'm looking for the perfect coat this fall. I will be traveling a bit this season to all of which are rather cold, cold states, and I'm not looking forward to it! I'm spoiled here in Florida. It's November, and I'm still wearing shorts and sandals. CRAZY, HUH?! I own a couple of jackets, but I only have one short, black peacoat and would love to get my hands on a similar long, beige one that can be wearable every day. Here are some coats I've been eyeing lately:

Finding Frances Blush Jacket | Lulus | $75

Detective Diva Ivory Trench Coat| Lulus | $81

$75 today only in stores

Trimmed Camel Coat | Ann Taylor | $188

$75 today only in stores

Tiered-Bottom Wool Trench Coat | Express | $198

Quilted Puffer Jacket with Faux Fur Trim | Victoria Secret | $128

Wool Trench Coat | Victoria Secret | $129 on sale

Outfit Picks: Linen is one of my favorite fabrics! It's perfect to wear during warm weather. I was going to just wear my sleeveless striped blouse, then I remembered that it's freezing in the office! So I grabbed a cardigan and darted out the door [this morning]!

Top :: Forever 21 (last seen here)

Skirt :: Forever 21 (last seen here)

Cardigan :: Lauren by Ralph Lauren

Shoes :: Nine West (last seen here) -->I've been wearing these a lot lately.

What are you on the hunt for this Fall season?

Natasha xoxo

Yes, I Voted!

I voted yesterday! There is something about Election Day that makes me feel so proud to be an American. I even wore my "I voted" sticker all day. During lunch, I took a little trip to Target to grab a few items, and while I was standing in line, a teenager behind me asked why I voted and said "It doesn't make any sense to vote. It's a waste of time!" Of course I put on my "adult" hat, and felt the need to educate him on how it's a right we should all take seriously. lol. His mother looked over at me and whispered "Thank you."

Outfit Picks: I've been wearing a lot of color lately and wanted to tone it down a bit. Haha! Yesterday I chose to wear my polka-dotted, silk top and paired with a belted, khaki skirt! Note the "I voted sticker" on my blouse :).

Blouse :: Banana Republic

Skirt :: Purchased in China (last seen here)

Shoes :: Kenneth Cole (last seen here)

Did you vote yesterday? Do you agree with the teen's remarks?

Natasha xoxo

Halloween Happy and Shopping Trip in NYC

Happy Belated Halloween! This was by far the most fun Halloween I've had in a long time. While I was in New York, I met up with a group of college friends, and we attended a Haunted House/Party. I had a lot of fun and it was nice to catch up with old friends.

The Halloween costumes this year were sooo over the top. I remember seeing a lot of the "Jersey Shore" cast, the Kardashian sisters and it seemed like everyone was an Avatar. Everywhere I looked, I saw one. According to CNN, the most popular Halloween costumes this year include Lady Gaga, Snooki and "The Situation." Click here for a fun and light read!

While work may have taken over my New York trip during the week, I did find sometime over the weekend to shop! I was really looking for blouses. I was thrilled to locate an Ann Taylor around the corner from my hotel. All of their sale items were marked down, plus I received an addition 40% off!
 

I am such a fan of ruffles! Love the color combination as well.

 

 I do not own a long cardigan and have wanted one for some time now. This would pair perfectly with some of my strappy tops.

The photo doesn't do this top justice! It is actually plum and beige and can be worn with the long cardigan I purchased (above).

Such a bright and cheerful top! I'd like to find a charcoal or red pencil skirt to complete the look.

Did you dress in costume this year for Halloween? If so, who/what were you?

Natasha xoxo