Weekend outlet shopping & OOTD.

My aunt, uncle and cousins were in town this weekend, and I have to say, it was the best excuse to go shopping! Not only did we shop at my favorite outlets, but I kept everyone busy with activities. I even took my cousins rollerskating at a local rink. I haven't skated in years, so it was nice to see that I still had my moves...haha!

As far as shopping, I was pretty proud of myself. My purchases totaled barely $65 this weekend. My mother is very much like myself...we both think of shopping as a competitive sport and took full advantage of the sales, coupons and in-store promotions. Here are my finds:

Love Culture
I can't tell you how many times I have visited the outlets in my city and never walked into this store. I didn't even know it existed! For those who have never shopped at Love Culture, it reminds me of how Forever 21 used to be...cheap prices, with "ok to good" quality items. I fell in love with a silky, black and white, racerback tank and also purchased a basic, white tank...I had too! Just couldn't beat the price!

 Black and white racerback tank top, $10

Basic white tank top, $3

Ralph Lauren
This was my favorite purchase this weekend. Originally $60, I was able to take this preppy, navy blue, ruffled cardigan home for only $20. It was on sale for $29.99 and I had a 30% off coupon a co-worker gave me!

Old Navy
After spending a half hour rummaging through the sales racks, I discovered the perfect black blazer. It is so versatile. The soft cotton fabric makes it easy to dress up or down. Perfect for a chilly night. Can't wait to wear it this fall. Only $14.99 (with my 30% Give and Get Gap Inc coupon).

Ann Taylor
This was a gift from my aunt and I love it. I own one black skirt, and I really needed another one. Definitely a staple item in my closet. Only one problem. I found out this weekend that I am no longer a 0P at Ann Taylor. I have grown up to 2P, and boy was I stunned. Everyone was laughing at me when I had my "little moment," but seriously, what's going on? I workout nearly everyday, and I don't notice any change in weight. Weird. Just $16 after 30% off promotion and an additional 20% off coupon!

Outfit Picks: After re-organizing my closet on Sunday [it's actually color coordinated...anal, i know!], I noticed a dress I purchased from Forever 21 a few years ago. I  have only worn it once this year to a client luncheon, so I grabbed it this morning and paired with a black cardi, candy red heels and a belt!

Dress :: Forever 21

Cardigan :: Banana Republic (seen here)

Belt :: Nordstrom

Shoes :: Payless (yes, Payless :)

Handbag :: Dooney & Bourke

Did you make any purchases this past weekend that made you smile? Share it with me! ;)

Natasha xoxo

Ps. I ended up returning the purple and white maxi dress I purchased from Ann Taylor last weekend. First, maxi dresses (in general) aren't the best for shorties like me, but what really made me bring it back to the store was the length. It was too short to wear with heels. Major problemo...i rarely wear flat shoes.

Pay Less this Fall?

I received an email from Payless ShoeSource tonight, and I have to say, I'm quite impressed. Looks like Payless has joined forces with designers Christian Siriano (from Project Runway), Lela Rose and Isabel Toledo! ...and although the prices aren't what you expect from Payless, you won't care when you take a peek at their featured designer collection. 

My Favorite Picks:

1. Parisienne Exotic Platform Pump by Christian Siriano, $39.99. The first thing I thought was "WOW, these look expensive!" The heel is said to measure 4'' and the platforms add 1/2''. These babies will go with almost any outfit in your closet. Also available in eggplant. Click for more.

2. Mena Small Clutch by Christian Siriano, $39.99. This is the perfect little clutch for any night out! The polished goldtone locking clasp adds such a nice touch, doesn't it? Click for more.

3. Midnight D'Orsay Evening Pump Christian Siriano, $44.99. These shoes are so classy... i'm loving the pleat detail on the side of the shoe, and the asymmetrical shape of the pumps will go perfectly with any formal or cocktail outfit. Click for more.

4. Suede Chop-Out Shootie by Lela Rose, $44.99. I have been looking for a pair of brown booties to add to my shoe closet for the fall, so I was excited to see these. Although they aren't brown, I'm falling in love with this taupe color and the faux suede fabric was an ideal choice. It's available in black as well. Click for more.

What do you think of Payless' efforts in teaming up with high-end designers to bring low-end price points to mass markets? [Boy, wasn't that a mouthful?! lol] Do you see yourself purchasing any of the shoes featured this season or does the Payless name turn you off?

Natasha xoxo

Family in town & OOTD.

I have been running around since Thursday night, because my aunt, uncle and cousins have traveled down to the sunshine state. I love it when family comes to visit. I have a lot planned for the weekend, and i'll even try to sneak in some outlet shopping. If I do, i'll be sure to post my finds on Monday!

Outfit Picks: Over the past month, it's been Casual Wear Month at work and I'm actually a bit excited that we will be back to our regular work attire in September (countdown in 4 days). I know it sounds crazy, but after wearing jeans [almost] every day, i'd like to get back into my skirts and dresses.

I actually had a meeting with a few vendors, so denim wasn't an option on Friday. I call this my "teacher outfit"...lol. It was practically 100 degrees outside, so it was nice to be able to take off my cardigan, as I hiked [in heels] through downtown.

 Skirt :: Espirit

Tank :: Old Navy

Cardigan :: Ann Taylor (seen here)

Shoes :: Nine West (seen here)

Handbag :: Coach ( seen here)

I always thought I'd be thrilled to show up to work in a pair of jeans and a t-shirt, but there is something about "dressing the part" that makes me feel a little more productive at the end of the day. What is your dress code at work? What would you consider an ideal dress code?

Have a great weekend ladies!

Natasha xoxo

My FIRST Blog Award!

I am honored that one of my favorite bloggers, Chas @ From Denim to Dessert, awarded me with my very first blog award. It feels so great to know that people enjoy reading my blog. I appreciate all the ladies that stop by and offer advice, ask questions and even share ideas! I have learned quickly that blogging is an adventure...it can only get better, and I'm hanging on for the ride.

Thanks again Chas! 

Natasha xoxo

The rules accompanying the award are as follows:
1. Post who gave you this award.
2. State ten things you like.
3. Give this award to 10 other bloggers and notify them with a comment.

So here it goes:
1. I was given this award by Chas at From Denim to Desert.

2. Ten things I like:

• Happy Birthday Remix ice cream at Cold Stone Creamery.
• Going shopping and getting the best deal possible.
• Meeting new people and learning about different cultures.
• My 3lb yorkie, Louis "Louie" Vuitton II.
• Spending time with my friends and laughing.
• My blackberry & coca-cola. I'm addicted to both of them! :)
• Blogging...duh!
• Traveling to new places.
• Attending lecture and having discussions with my peers.
• The Real Housewives series on Bravo TV.

3. Ten bloggers I would like to give this award to:

• Glam Latte
• Idle Banter
• Hundy & Undy
• Little Girl Big Closet
• Page sixx
• Pursuit of Love, Laughter & Travels
• The Look for Less
• Veronika's Blushing
• Allister Bee
• Beautygirl24

Snapshots: weekend in review.

I was able to cram some time for school, shopping and hanging out with friends this weekend. Both Friday night and Saturday morning I spent a total of 8 hours in lecture - Not exactly the most exciting part of my weekend. lol.

Kendal, one of my friends from college, took a detour into town to spend some quality time with me! It was nice to see her and meet the new man in her life. i.e. Decide whether or not he was good enough for my doll! ;) He passed with flying colors and had a blast catching up as we hopped bar to bar! I haven't worn this romper in quite a while, and since Kendal was wearing black and gold, we kinda matched...reminded us of college!

Romper :: Forever 21
Shoes :: Payless (also seen here)

Necklace :: Forever 21

Even though it was raining all day, I spent most of Sunday out with my mother shopping! It was tax-free week here in Florida (for the back-to-schoolers), so I was excited to get to the outlets and see how fabulous the sales were. I threw on my orange-and-white striped tank, my most comfortable jeans and some heels...

Tank :: GAP

Jeans :: Old Navy
Shoes :: Aldo

Handbag :: Guess

I took a visit to the Coach Factory Outlet store. They were giving an additional 20% off all store items, but  unfortunately, I didn't find anything I was interested in.

 I received an email this week that Kenneth Cole will be having 31% off their entire store and wanted to check it out. I was a little disappointed I didn't see much that I liked, however a sales associate encouraged me to come back next week because they would be adding new merchandise. So much for 31% off :).

I did stop by Ann Taylor and finally scored some merchandise! Almost everything in the store was 40% off, including items already in the clearance section. I'm so excited about the items I purchased...heck, i'm thrilled about the money I saved! I also had a 20% off coupon a co-worker gave me to me on Friday, so I was literally jumping for joy! haha.

 Black-and-white printed wrap blouse, only $15.

 Purple floral maxi dress, only $20.

Black tiered tank top, only $20.

What did you dolls do this weekend? Any major plans for the week ahead? Thanks for all of your fabulous comments. I love hearing from each and every one of you!

Muah,

Natasha xoxo

School weekend ahead.

It's Friday! Whhooohooo! I had a long week at work and I've never been happier that the weekend is here. Unfortunately, it's a school weekend. I had class tonight and I'll have class tomorrow, but none-the-less, I plan on making the most of my Saturday and Sunday.

One of my coworkers is literally a shopaholic and she probably subscribes to every retail promotion email list. After surprising one of my favorite vendors with an assortment of Planet Smoothies for breakfast, i arrived at the office, only to find ten sheets of printed paper sitting on my desk. I was in heaven. Do you know what those pieces of paper were? Printable coupons for my favorite retailers - VS, Express, New York & Company, and more! I totally owe her lunch :) Do you have a co-worker that looks out for you 100%? I feel so fortunate!

Outfit Pick: Here's what i wore today to work. I had some errands to run, so I centered my outfit around my CV flat sandals. A white cardigan was my first choice, but then I remembered my salmon-colored cropped sweater. It was instantly a winner...I thought it added some color to the mix!

Dress :: American Eagle

Cardigan :: Old Navy

Shoes :: Cynthia Vincent for Target (purchase here)
Handbag :: Coach

Think of me tomorrow as I sit through four hours of lecture! Urggghhh...

Niters Ladies,

Natasha xoxo

Retail therapy: Wednesday fashion finds.

Dolls...sorry I didn't post yesterday! I spent my night at the movies with the BF. I was told that seeing Inception again would make me understand the movie a bit more! Boy, is that the truth! The movie was even better the second time around. If you haven't seen it already, I definitely recommend that you do.

The online sales racks are even better than what I expected. Squeezing in as many summer days as possible is my goal, and these deals make it that much easier. Check out the items below...all retail for $20 or less!

Cotton Flapped Yoke Shirt @ Ann Taylor $20, Originally $68
Colored Twill Short @ Forever 21 $10, Originally $20 
Side Beaded Knit Dress @ Charlotte Russe $13, Originally $36
Ombre Straw Basket @ Piperlime $14, Originally $35
CL by Laundry Common Sandal @ DSW $20, Originally $50
Flower Button Earrings @ GUESS $10, Originally $20
Metal Stud Belt @ GoJane $9, Originally $16

Happy hump day!

Natasha xoxo

Back-to-work Monday!

It's Monday Ladies! How was your day? Mine was rather slow. I'm not complaining, but for a Monday, it was definitely laid back. I am very appreciative, because I didn't get back into town until 7:00AM this morning! I know, I know!

I spent some quality time with my BFF this weekend. Literally, all-day Saturday and Sunday we were planning and confirming venue alternatives, colors, and we even were able to decide on the date! I'm definitely not the girl that grew up dreaming about weddings, however, when your twenty-something the whole world is getting married and it gets pretty fun assisting friends with being creative - making theirs different from the last wedding we attended :)

With all that needed to be decided upon this weekend, we forgot to kick back and have a night out...so we sucked it up and had a fun time last night...perhaps a little too much fun ;)

We grabbed a taxi and arrived home at 2:00AM.

I took a 3 hour nap from 2-5:00AM.

Drove back to my home and arrived around 7:00AM.

Laid my head for a half hour.

Started getting ready for work at 7:30AM.

...and walked through my office doors at 9:00AM.

Phhheeeww! I'm so proud of myself. :) haha.

Outfit Pick: I was excited to wear my tulip skirt I purchased last week. The color blue was singing into my ears this morning, so I attempted to bring out the little bit of blue that was in my skirt and paired it with my oh-so-vibrant, Banana Republic blouse.

Blouse :: Banana Republic (also seen here)

Skirt :: Mossimo for Target (seen here, purchase here)

Shoes :: Payless Shoes (Yes, Payless :)

Handbag :: Coach (also seen here)

Necklace :: Forever 21

Here's to a fabulous week ahead!

Natasha xoxo

Ps. It's the last day to save 20% at CharlotteRusse.com, by entering Promo Code: STYLEWATCH. Blogger Pick: The Scalloped Lace Top.

Here comes the bride. dah dah de dah...

No, not me! lol. One of my closest friends is getting married next summer in Vegas and all we've been talking about is the day! There is something about planning a wedding that makes me just stop and appreciate the people in my life. Here are some bridal images that I fell in love with this week:

 Photo Credit: JLM Couture

Photo Credit: Allen Venables Photography

Photo Credit: Andi Diamond Photography

Photo Credit: Rustin Michael Photography

Photo Credit:Florida Beach Bride

Photo Credit: Monolo for the Brides

Photo Credit:Conrad Hotels

  Photo Credit:Sweet Fashion Design

TGIF! What do you girls have planned for the weekend? I'll be driving down to visit my favorite bride and get some wedding stuff completed. Can't wait to share my ideas with her (I have a binder full of them, lol)...and go dress shopping with her! The very first photo (above) is actually her #1 choice.  It is absolutely beautiful, so I'm crossing my fingers that when she tries it on, she'll get the it's-meant-to-be feeling :).

Speak to you all on Monday! 

Natasha xoxo

P.S. Do any of you girls have some wedding tips or secrets? I'd love to hear them. Leave me a note below :).

TV obsession and Target for lunch.

Thursday is here! Not only is it the day before Friday, but one of my favorite reality shows Bethenny's Getting Married, airs tonight on Bravo! Bethenny Frankel is absolutely hilarious. Jason, her supportive husband, is tall and handsome and her new baby girl, Brynn Casey, is just adorable. I admire her ambition and determination to be successful in everything she does. Definitely a business women to look up to! Do you girls follow the show?

Photo Credit: Bravotv.com

Photo Credit: Getty Images

 

Prior to heading out to lunch today, I took a peek and read Chas' blog From Denim to Desert. She was sporting the most adorable multi-colored dress that I've seen a few times on the sales racks at Target. So what did I do? Just the normal routine. I skipped lunch and went shopping! There were some household items I needed anyway [justifying my shopping visit :)].

I was proud. I didn't do any damage really. Remember, I told myself I would hold off from any shopping until the fall. Ok, lets begin on that promise next week. lol. Although I couldn't find Chas' dress, I spotted the cutest blue/green/black tulip skirt on sale for only $9.99 (originally $20). I couldn't let such a good deal go to waste, right?

 Mossimo for Target, XS (Purchase here)

I can't wait to put it on! I plan on wearing jeans to work tomorrow, so I'll have to hold off until next week. I love that I can dress it up or down. It also came in a wine red and cool blue color, as well as various prints here and here. Be sure to visit your local Target store...many are clearing the racks for fall season trends. There is a wide selection of summer clearance and the prices are too-good-to-be-true.

How was your Thursday dolls?

Natasha xoxo

Tuesday fashion finds: summer is still relevant.

Happy Tuesday ladies! I received some positive feedback last week regarding the fashion finds feature. I’m always going through those sales racks (online of course :), so I’ll continue to share what I find, and try to do it on a weekly basis. Take a look at what I discovered today…all items can be purchased for $30 or less!!

Michael Antonio Tinsley @ Piperlime $25, Originally $48
V Neck Blouse with Braided Belt  @ Macy’s $15, Originally $25
Floral Blur Dress @ Forever 21 $17, Originally $35
Exotica Frame Clutch @ GUESS $30, Originally $68
Always Skinny Destructed Jeans @ GAP $25, Originally $70
Women's Contoured Sunglasses  @ Old Navy $8, Originally $9.50

Don't you just love the destroyed GAP jeans... and the price is just right! I might even take a trip this weekend and visit GAP. I haven’t been to the store in such a long time. Oh ladies, listen to this: I made a promise to myself that I’ll refrain from shopping until the Fall season truly begins here in Florida. Funny right?! I may just have to make one exception this weekend :).

Do you find that the internet only enables your shopping habit?! Haha… you are not alone.

Natasha xoxo

Thank you's, OOTD and my fall wish list.

Dolls, thank you so much for your well wishes! I think they paid off! I received an “A” on my presentation and I believe I did pretty well on my exam. I’ll know for sure in the next few days.

Outfit Picks: With all the studying this weekend,  I have to admit, I was a bit excited that the work week was here. Mondays are always super busy and I was ready to jump into meetings and getting things done. Remember, August is “Casual Month” at the office, and I was thrilled… I had no “in-person” appointments today, so I grabbed one of my favorite flare jeans and paired with a babydoll tank I haven’t worn in months!

Top :: Charlotte Russe

Cardigan :: Old Navy

Jeans :: Ted Baker

Shoes :: Kenneth Cole (also seen here)

Bracelets :: Purchased in India

Like many other bloggers, I’ve been constructing a wish list for the Fall, and thought I’d share a few items with you! Unfortunately, we don’t really have “seasons” in Florida. So Fall really means an extension of summer with less rain, and cooler nights! :)

1. A fitted jacket. A necessity for me. I own denim and khaki jackets and would love to add more staple colors (like navy) to my wardrobe. Navy Schoolboy Blazer @ JCrew.

2. Flat equestrian boots. I own probably half a dozen boots, but all of them have major heel action. I’d like to add a pair of flat boots to my shoe collection.  STEVE by Steve Madden.

3. Urban scarves. Can you ever have enough of these? Love the multicolored!  Staring at Stars Tropical Weave Oblong Scarf @ Urban Outfitters.

4. The sweater dress. So chic when paired with a belt and boots. Buckled Wrap-Front Knit Dress @ Ralph Lauren.

5. Comfy cardigan. Perfect for work and those chilly nights out for dinner. I prefer the longer cover-ups and love that you can dress these up or down. Drapey Foldover Cardigan @ Bebe.

What’s on your Fall list? Share with me, I’d love to know!

Natasha xoxo

Homework has taken over.

Girls, how was your week? I've been consumed all week (and this weekend) with homework for my Finance class. Wow...getting my MBA is no joke. The reason why I've been a little MIA is because I had to prepare for a case presentation and I have my midterm due tomorrow.

Anyone in school? What do you do to stay organized? I've been procrastinating a bit this semester, but I always seem to do my best work under pressure :)

 I have a desk I rarely use. Haha. I do most of my studying on my bedroom floor :)

Halfway through my brain food from Tijuana Flats...yumm!

Sorry for the little hiatus. Speak to you all on Monday!

Natasha xoxo

Tuesday fashion finds.

Hey girlies…how was your Tuesday? I was consumed at work for most of the day and had dinner with a friend at my favorite Thai restaurant downtown. I am absolutely obsessed with this restaurant and even have cravings from time-to-time! Thankfully, my friends share the same addiction. :) Do you ever have ongoing cravings for a specific type of food?

Be aware of the tangent :) ~ Because I'm such an avid shopper, it is necessary for me to be a smart one as well. I'm always searching the internet for great deals. Here are seven cute and pocket-friendly fashion finds...all under $40 each. Enjoy!

The Finds:

The Details:

Lilac Paper Bag Waist Skirt by ASOS, $17 (Originally $42)
Feeling Floppy Dress by Mod Cloth, $24 (Originally $48)
Square Gold Stud by Kate Spade, $34 (Originally $45)
Dava Sandals by Michael Antonio, $30 (Originally $40)
Bow Ring with Rhinestones by GUESS, $10 (Originally $25)
White Medium Ruched Satchel by BCBG, $37 (Originally $50)
Love Me Tender Top by Urban Original, $15 (Originally $24)

Which items would you purchase? I have already ordered the adorable lilac skirt and the GUESS bow ring. I fell in love...Awwwhhh.

I appreciate all of your wonderful comments.
Thanks for following :)

Natasha xoxo

I'm feeling green today.

I had a great time in Miami this weekend with my BFFs. We usually have a full agenda when we visit and it always includes hitting the night clubs, shopping malls and boutiques and even spend a few hours snorkeling or jet skiing. Pleasantly, this trip was the exact opposite. On Friday, we threw our bags in our hotel rooms and darted for the pool. This is where we spent the next two days! Haha…Being friendly with the cabana boys does pay off. I think we literally paid for only 3 drinks each the whole weekend :).

Outfit Pick: I don’t have outfit picks from the weekend, since we spent our time poolside, however, I do have some shots of what I wore today to work. August is officially “casual dress” month, so I can wear jeans every day! *happy dance* Of course, I’ll have those days I must dress a bit more professional for meetings and events… and I might just want to wear a pencil skirt for the fun of it! Anyway, green was the  color of the day.

Camisole :: Express
Seersucker Blazer :: Gap
Jeans :: Gap

Shoes :: Aldo
Shoulder bag :: Coach

I did pop into a Target store while I was in Miami and my eyes located the cutest plaid-printed bikini top and bottom on sale for $7.49 each! I grabbed it (as if someone else was going to leap over and take it from me), and ran over to the grocery section… where I was supposed to be to pick up some snacks for the trip back home. :)

Xhilaration, Halter top $7.49, Side-tie bottoms $7.49

What did you girls do this weekend? 

Natasha xoxo