Recent Purchases: Forever 21 + Target

The BF and I decided to get away this past holiday weekend to enjoy four days off work in Miami. It was so nice to turn off our cell phones (maybe I checked twitter and emails a few times :) and spend nearly the entire weekend at the hotel pool or on the beach with our feet in the sand. I did talk the BF into going shopping on Monday, and while the sales weren't too exciting, I picked up a few things at Forever 21 and Target.

Left / Right: Classic Buttoned Dress (Purchase)

Positives: I absolutely love the sleeves on the dress. Most of the dresses I own are either sleeveless or 3/4 sleeves, so I was excited when I saw the rolled, flutter cap sleeves. I'm generally not a "pink person," but the bright, salmon color is so lovely in person. Oh, and there's pockets...I can't say no to a dress with pockets :)

Negatives: I'm not a fan of the button placement on the collar. (I'll most likely unbutton the first three buttons.)

Verdict: Keeping

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 Left: Striped dress purchased at Forever21, Right: Similar Floral Striped Dress (Purchase)

Positives: I was instantly drawn to the blue and white, nautical stripes. It is made of 100% cotton and extremely versatile. This little number is an appropriate length for work, and would pair nicely with a blazer and heels. It is also ideal for running errands on the weekends with a pair of wedges or flats. The price tag is also a plus. Only $9.90 and available in a cute, bright pink as well.

Negatives: While the material is a bit thicker than most of Forever 21's cotton pieces, I suspect this dress will not only shrink in the wash, but loose it's color a bit.

Verdict: Keeping - priced at only $9.90, it's a steal!

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 Top / Bottom: Mossimo Pearce Patent Pump (Purchase)

Positives: These are a cheap dupe for my favorite "Ambitious" pumps at Nine West (pictured above in tan suede on left and nude patent leather on right). The soles are made of a flexible thermoplastic rubber and includes a  non-skid tread on the toe and heel. The 3.5 inch heel is perfect for work, and these bold pumps look great with a pair of dark wash skinny jeans.

Negatives: The shoes are made of a faux patent leather material, which is more prone to scratches and scuffs. Disappointingly, there is also no toe-cleavage.

Verdict: Keeping - A pair of ruby red shoes can brighten up any outfit! Can't wait to wear 'em. Debating weather or not to return. I prefer investing in a real patent leather pump.


Did you score any goodies during the President's Day sales this past weekend?

xoxo, natasha

A Renewed Love for Juicy Couture

When I think of Juicy Couture, it instantly brings me back to high school...my group of friends would coordinate which days we would wear our velour track suits. Probably the biggest decision we had to make during the week, other than coordinating who will be carpooling to the weekend's football game.

After high school, the brand was just "too much" for me. The huge crystal ornaments that dangle on it's bright, pink, velour handbags, just wasn't my piece of pie. During my college years, simple and preppy Vera Bradley was my best friend.

Over the last year or so, I've been leaving a lot of those past feelings behind. The brand has really renewed itself. I have fallen in love with Juicy's perfume and jewelry collections. Last year, Peace Love & Juicy Couture was an obsession. This year, Couture Couture Perfume Spray and the Gold Starter Charm Bracelet are my recent treasures:

Couture Couture, Gold Starter Charm Bracelet (silver), Peace Love & Juicy Couture

...and just for fun, here's a wish list of Juicy Couture items I've been stalking and will be on the hunt for during this weekend's President's Day sales. If you prefer to shop online, use coupon code: DIY20 for 20% off your order at Juicy Couture. Offer expires February 19th.

Swing It Suede Ava Clutch, Silver Starter Necklace (gold), Briolette Linear Earrings,  
Spring Floral Lace Dress, Risha Striped Wedges

Are you a Juicy Couture fan?

xoxo, natasha

Date Night Inspiration

I always look forward to Fridays! It's the "official" date night for me and the BF. No matter what's going on during the week, we always try to do something fun! I just got back from a work project in the Caribbean, so we decided to enjoy a low-key dinner at our favorite downtown Thai restaurant this week. The best part about date night is getting all dolled up. Here is some blogger inspiration that would be perfect for any date night:

Blaire @ Atlantic-Pacific

Maria @ Flor de Maria Fashion

Miss K @ Love, Lipstick & Pearls

 Krystal @ The Style Book

Jessica @ Bows and Sequins

Nany @ Nany's Kloset

Cara @ A Fashion Love Affair

J @ J's Everyday Fashion

What do you wear on your date nights?

xoxo, natasha

Looking the Part

Note: This is a scheduled post. My responses to comments or questions may be delayed.

An old college professor would always say..."If you want to be taken seriously, exude confidence, and establish a presence, dress for success." This rule can easily apply to a number of areas in your life, especially working out. I feel more motivated and confident then ever, when I show up to the gym feeling and looking good. Here are a few of my recent workout cravings that can help you "look the part":

1. Scoop Neck Tank $52 @ Lululemon
2. Nike+ Sportband $59 @ Zappos
3. Athletic Roundabout Pant $69 @Athleta
4. Women's UA EVO ColdGear Hoody $60 @ Under Armour
5. Double Dry Relaxed Sport Shorts $25 @ Champion
6. Slipless Headband $12 on sale @ Lululemon
7. Move Me Juniors Duffel Bag $62 @Surf Fanatics
8. Nike Shox Roadster+ $120 @Zappos


What motivates you to work out?

xoxo, natasha