Jcrew Factory Sale Picks

Happy Friday! I wanted to share some recent J.Crew Factory items I purchased. They are running an amazing sale online and even better sale in stores.

V-NECK CARDIGAN - retails for $89.90. marked to $34.99 in store with additional 75% = $8.75. Online it is $16 with code "CLEAROUT". I purchased the green and light gray in my usual size (XS).
TISSUE TURTLENECK - one of my favorite shirts from Jcrew, so figured I'd give the Factory version a try. This retails for $35, on sale currently for $8 with code "CLEAROUT", but I purchased mine in store for $4. I'm wearing a XS here.

Comes in gray, beige, brown, gorgeous cabernet color, hunter green, royal blue, etc.

VELVET TOP - $14 marked down from $49 with the code mentioned above

DONEGIRL TURTLENECK SWEATER - marked down to ~$25 from $88 online, but purchased mine for $12 in stores

The CITY COAT is less than $60 with code "CLEAROUT". I purchased this 3-4 years ago and it's still one of my favorites. You can read my review HERE.

Current Sales & Istagram Lately

Happy Wednesday, everyone. Hope you are all have a great week!

I received several messages regarding some of my recent outfits,  so I'll be posting all the details here. Some of these are on clearance as well!

This beautiful LACE YOKE TOP is probably one of my favorite purchases last summer. It's currently on clearance for $34!  I love how simple and easy this shirt it - it's just a cotton-t, but the details and flowy-ness makes it look more dressy. I have to say, Abercrombie is stepping up their game, I  really haven't shopped there since high school, but I've been loving their denim and shirts.

Lace Yoke Top - on clearance for $34
White Chino Shorts - Sale $35
Similar T Strap Sandals - $22

I love a good classic cross body. I think the cognac color is the most classic because you can literally throw it over anything and it wears well throughout the different seasons. The one I'm wearing is from COACH and retails for close to $400. There are several less expensive alternatives (linked below the picture). 

Another wardrobe classic is a cargo jacket, the one I'm wearing is the MADEWELL SURPLUS JACKET. 

Coach Saddle Bag - $395

Similar Items at different price ranges:

Faux Leather Saddle Bag - $22

Madewell Crossbody - $98

Rebecca Minkoff Mini Mac (have and love!) - $195

Instagram Lately - Winter Staples & Reviews

Hope y'all are having a great weekend (long weekend!) I've received several questions regarding my recent outfit stories wearing the below outfit. So I figured I'd review some of the items more in depth.

CARDIGAN - oversized fit, wearing XS
JEANS - currently 60% off for $39, TTS
BOOTIES - 50% off, fits TTS
STRIPED SHIRT - XS

My winter uniform is leggings/jeans, with some sort of a long sleeve T layered under a long cardigan. I don't think you can go wrong with this formula and it's great for those lazy days when you don't know what to wear.

This DOLMAN SLEEVED CARDIGAN has navy and gray specks that originally caught my eye  and I immediately purchased it. I thought it added some interest to an otherwise plain piece of clothing. It's a dolman sleeved cardigan with a looser fit. I could have gone with a XXS, but went with the XS instead.

My jeans are by BLANKNYC and are currently almost 60% off for ~$39, a steal from the original $90 price tag! These fit true to size and wear/wash well. 

And of course, my favorite ankle booties that I love. These are so comfortable! I reviewed them HERE  with several links to sales. 

One of my closet staples in the colder months is a PACKABLE DOWN VEST. This Uniqlo vest is great for travel and layering. It bunches up into a tiny ball, so fit perfectly in your purse of carry on.
Because it's made of down, it is extremely warm, but is light enough for wearing under jackets without adding bulk. These run a little small, the XS was tight on me, so I went with a S. The S has room for layering over thicker sweaters and sweatshirts, but is not baggy where it looks too oversized.

COAT - Currently 50% for $114, 00
BOOTIES - TTS, 6
LEGGINGS - XS
PACKABLE VEST - navy, XS

Hope you found this helpful! Where are your winter closet staples?
Jules

Old Navy Reviews and Sale

I took a quick trip to my local Old Navy last night for a pair of mittens I spotted online.
While browsing the store, several items caught my eye.

The RUFFLE HEM SWEATER (reg. $34.99) is marked as $8.99 in store and $19.00 - $23.00 online depending on color.
Here I'm wearing the XS (I'm 5'4, 103 lbs). I love the fit and length of this sweater, my only complaint is that it sheds quite a bit. The black tank top I layered under this was covered in white lint. I thought it was still worth it for $8.99, nothing a lint roller can't fix.

RUFFLE HEM SWEATER - XS

I'm in love with this lavender color, however my size was sold out in stores as well as online.

Recent purchases: Jimmy Choos and Romantic Blouses

Hello everyone! It was a snowy one in Boston today! We were snowed and worked from home. I'm dreading  the shoveling and drive tomorrow...

Anyways, I'm sharing some recent purchases and major sales!

First off is a gorgeous pair of flats with ankle flats. These have a classic silhouette, but the strap makes them very unique. These are currently available in suede at SAKS for the original price (leather is $100 more), but I stumbled upon these at a local Nordstrom Rack for over 70% off. There is a sparkly version HERE. In case you're interested, these fit true to size, and are very comfortable as they have a light padded foot bed. I cannot wait to take these out when the weather warms up....but there's snow in the forecast all next week =(.

For more weather appropriate accessories. My Sorel winter boots are 50% off, from $145 to only $75 HERE. These are stylish, comfortable, and extremely comfortable. These are my commuting shoes during the wintery months and I have to admit, I've worn them a couple of times in the office when I forgot to bring a change of shoes.  Blanket scarves a must in New England during the winter, and right now, this one is blanket scarf is $29.99.

Can't have enough blanket scarves and hats!

OVER THE KNEE BOOTS FOR SLIM CALVES

Today I'm coming to you with a review on 4 pairs of over the knee boots designed for slim calves.
I have very slim calves (12.5in circumference) and have always had trouble finding boots that fit properly. I've been eyeing the Stuart Weitzman Lowlands for quite some time, but did not want to spend the money.

I did plenty of research and reading reviews online and found 4 pairs that were described as "slim fitting". During the Black Friday, I bit the bullet and purchase all 4 pairs.



First up is the GENTLE SOUL EMMA BOOTS - definitely winners! These retail for $399, but are on sale on several sites for $220-$250.00 and come in black and a beautiful taupe color (almond.) I purchased these in both colors; the black in size 5.5, and almond in 6. When I was in the process of checking out, the size 6 in black sold out, so I decided to get the 5.5 anyways.
To my surprise, these fit about 1/2 a size larger, so the 5.5 was perfect. I was quote unfamiliar with this brand, but knew it was a comfort brand. Gentle Soul is a brand of Kenneth Cole and is definitely made for comfort. I felt like I was walking on clouds the second I stepped foot in these boots. The soul is thick and made of layers of memory pillows, padding, and dear skin lining, completely organic and has rubberized souls for easy walking!

PROS:
- fits my legs perfectly!
- lined with a silky smooth liner
- doesn't slip down my legs when I walk
- genuine sueded
- amazing quality
- good price point for quality and comfort!
CONS:
- pull on boot, without ties in the back, which may stretch out after some use
- run half a size big

Nordstrom BP Trolley Ankle Bootie Review

I attending the private holiday shopping event at Nordstrom last week - an event for level 2-4 customers. Every dollar spent during the event is 10 points. I took full advantage of this and purchased several pair of shoes as well as some beauty products I was running low on.

I finally purchased the highly raved (4.5 stars with over 1500 reviews) BP "TROLLEY" BOOTIES in black. These are currently on marked down from $99.95 to $84.90 for those of you interested.

DESIGN: I love how simple these are - all black with a simple functional gold zipper running down the outer shaft of the boots.

MATERIAL: As I mentioned above, these come in many different colors and comes in leather, nubuck, and suede. The black ones specifically are a nubuck material. Nubuck is cowhide leather that has been rubbed to give it the look and feel of suede, but requires far less maintenance than suede. I typically spray mine with leather/suede spray.

SHAPE: I love the toe shape of these boots. I think the almond boot makes these extremely versatile and also elongates the leg - you can pair these with jeans, leggings, etc., but can also pair these with a dress in the fall or over tights in the winter time.

What I also love about these boots is the ankle opening is rather small which blends seamlessly with your leg rather than create a jagged cut off at the ankle.

COLOR: These boots also come in a multitude of colors (below) - everything from cognac leather to maroon suede. For those of you who want something versatile, I would highly recommend the black leather or grey leather; I have similar boots in these colors and find myself reaching for them with all types of outfits.

Additional colors available

Sam Edelman Ankle Boots Review

I've been on the hunt for a pair of versatile black ankle booties to wear with both jeans as well as more office appropriate outfits.

I recently ordered two pairs of Sam Edelman booties - the BLAKE BOOTIE and the CAMBELL BOOTIE. I was able to get Nordstrom to price match the Lord and Taylor sale.

BLAKE BOOTIE: Retail $159, purchased for $92. The sleekness and pointed toe of this boot immediately caught my eye and I was beyond thrilled when I received these boots. This is made of beautiful, soft, sturdy suede and has a rubber bottom making them easy to walk in. The padded souls along with the chunky 3 inch block heel make these so comfortable to walk in!

Cole Haan Sale Picks

COLE HAAN is currently having their semi annual sale where everything is 30% off with code FALLEVENT.

Definitely take advantage of the savings and grab a pair of ankle booties or boots if you've been on the hunt for a pair.

I have the MARINA over the knee boots and absolutely adore them. These retail for $500, but are $350 during the sale. The price is still a bit steep, but I think it's well worth it because it's so versatile. The material is soft and molds to your legs. These are perfect for those with smaller calves. I purchases mine two years ago during the Nordstrom Fall sale. Below are several ways I've worn these boots - over jeans, with a skirt for work, and with a dress over tights.

A few other pairs of boots caught my eye as well. These would have been high contenders if I didn't already own 4 similar pairs of ankle booties.

For a more sleel/work appropriate bootie, the NARELLE is great.

The HAYES booties are amazing for everyday casual wear- these retail for $280 and are on sale for $196!

Happy shopping!

More Nordstrom Anniversary Sale Purchases and Reviews

I want to remind everyone to shop the sale through EBATES where you can earn 6% cash back on Nordstrom purchase and up to 20% on other retail sites, including Fandango for movie tickets!
Anyways, on to some reviews:
Lush V-Neck Crepe Blouse - I purchased an XS in the color grape leaf. I absolutely love the color, it's a gorgeous bright olive green shade (picture appears darker) that would be great for both summer and fall. I love the hem line on this. The longer front and back make this wearable with leggings, but it can also be tucked into trousers for a work appropriate look. There are still several color lefts in different sizes.

Given how low the neck line is, you definitely need a tank underneath if wearing this to the office

This Topshop Strip Bardot Dress is not part of the anniversary sale, but with a price point of $45, it's a pretty reasonable deal. It is extremely comfortable and embraces the off the shoulder trend but  a has little added support with the straps. It runs true to size - I'm wearing a US size 0. The length is also great on me, it comes up about 2 inches above my knees, but I would stay away from this dress is you're over 5'6 (for reference I'm around 5'4)

I also purchased this HALOGEN poncho. This is currently sold out, but different sizes keep popping back up, so keep an eye out. BAREFOOT DREAMS has a very similar one that is much softer to the touch. 

I am wearing a regular XS/S. These come in petite sizing as well. It's a little long on me, but can work tucked in.

And lastly I can't emphasize these Cole Haan Marina Over the Knee boots  ($329 from $500)I purchase these last year during the sale and it quickly became one of my favorite pair of boots. Full review HERE. Given how many times I've worn these and how well they fit,  I would definitely purchase this at full price. 

You can read more reviews and purchases HERE

Recent Purchases: 50% off Banana Republic & Ann Taylor

I hope everyone had a great weekend! The past couple of days have been unseasonably warm for Boston, reaching 60 degrees!

I'm sharing a couple of recent purchases from Ann Taylor and Banana Republic when they had a 50% off final sale items. The sale is still going strong at Banana Republic and has increased to 60% off final sale items at Ann Taylor.

First up is ANN TAYLOR- I walked in not expecting to purchase anything. I immediately went to the sale area and I saw stacks of shoes and boots marked as final sale. There were several pairs of kittens heels in the color Cobalt flame that immediately caught my eye (I've been wanting a pair of blue suede heels and smaller heels for everyday since I tend to go for 4+ inches).  These were on final sale for $28.00.
These KITTEN HEELS are currently $89 with extra 60% off online ($36 final), but in store they are $28.99 (final sale). These have a 2.5 inch heel pictured on their website photo below.

I love this pairing with classic pieces and neutral colors from the AT site!

There were quite a few pairs of these as well as the higher heel version (EXOTIC LEATHER PUMP) also marked for final sale at $32.99.

After seeing these on my feet, my husband exclaimed "well you have to get the matching bag" and ran over to the rack to get it for me. I had no intentions of purchasing the clutch, but after seeing how much my husband liked the bag, I ended up purchasing it too.
The bag was a little pricier at $44 (not final sale); still debating weather or not to keep it (not sure how much wear I'd get out of it). This clutch comes in several colors (red, cobalt, black suede, studded version, and glitter version)

REVIEW- Ann Taylor Gusset Crossbody Bag

I took a trip to my local Ann Taylor store to browse through their sales items, but specifically I wanted to see the GUSSETT CROSSBODY BAG in person. I didn't think much of it when I initially saw it online, but after seeing it on JESS, I knew I wanted one.

Most of the colors were available at the store, but only a few remain available online. I intended to purchase the burgandy one because I loved the little tassel on it, however after seeing it in person, it was a little more brown than I would have liked. Another difference I noticed with the burgandy one was the entire outer perimeter of the purse was lined with a suede border, which meant more maintenance.

After trying on all the colors, I finally narrowed the color choices down to 3 - gray, burgandy, and red. I ended up purchasing the red since I don't own a true red purse, and my husband liked that one the most. The red is a true vibrant red which I adore! For those of you who don't have a neutral colored bag, I highly recommend the gray - it goes with practically anything. I would have definitely purchased the gray if I didn't already own a gray bag. I have THIS ONE by Rebecca Minkoff.

This bag measures 10 inches long, 6 inches tall and about 1.5 inches wide. It has two zipper pockets, which I love and comes with several slots for cards, etc. when you don't want to carry around a bulky wallet.

Using it as a clutch with the straps removed

The straps are removable so can be use as a clutch - this would be great for day to night transitions.

The straps are removable and can be converted to a clutch

Love the size of this bag and the length of the strap is perfect - lays right at my hips

Attached card holders

Hope you find this helpful! Happy Shopping =)

Instagram Outfits and Sale Alert // Anne Taylor and J.Crew

**SALE ALERT:**
ANN TAYLOR - 40% off new items, and 60% off sale items using code WEEKEND
J.CREW - 40-50% off sale items online and in stores using code SALEONSALE
J.CREW FACTORY - Hundreds of clearance items for over 60% off (no code needed)

Several of you messaged me about items I've worn recently and their sizing, so I'll be sharing that.  A handful of these items are also on sale from the retailers mentioned above.

First is up the PUFFER VEST from J.Crew Factory. These are less than $60. I have a DETAILED REVIEW HERE.

The LEOPARD FLATS are from Nordstrom, but are not on sale. I've received many comments about these. They run large. I am usually a size 6, but am wearing 5.5

I've been trying to not purchase any more handbags since I have way too many and don't even use all of them. My problem is I end up using one for weeks at a time and don't rotate through my collection. Well, after seeing the GUSSET CROSSBODY BAG on JESS, I couldn't help myself  and ended up purchasing one as well. These are marked down to $79,99 with an additional 70% off. There were several colors on stock at my local Ann Taylor, but these seem to be fully stocked online. I will be posting a full review on this in the next couple of days.

The Burgundy, Silver lake gray, and aurora red 

This Anne Taylor EMBROIDERED DOT PERFECT SHIRT  is 40%
For reference, I am wearing 0P - initially the sleeves were a tad long for me, but the shirt did shrink a tiny bit in the wash and fits perfectly now.

SALE ALERT: My Favorite Pieces from J.Crew and Nordstrom

I wanted to share some of my favorite J.CREW fall/winter staples and accessories that are currently on sale.
First up are vests from J.CREW and J.CREW FACTORY.
The J.CREW EXCURSION QUILTED VEST is originally $125 (I purchased mine last year for about $85), but they are now on super sale for ~$58 with code "MUSTSHOP."

I'm wearing XXS regular

The FACTORY QUILTED PUFFER VEST is now on sale for $59.99 (no code needed). I have this vest in red and black.

I'm wearing XXS

Post Christmas Sale Reviews//Nordstrom's Half-year Sale and Planners

I'm doing some quick review on items that are currently on sale at Nordstrom during their Half Year Sale.

The first is the LUSH "PERFECT ROLL TAB SLEEVE" TUNIC. These are marked down from $42 to $25.
I am wearing the XS in the color legion blue. I love this thicker chiffon material because it's not see through. The length is definitely longer (30 inches), but again this is a tunic style. It reaches mid thigh, which I think is great when worn with leggings and boots. You can also tuck it in and wear it as a looser fitting blouse like I did.

.
I do want to mention the neck line is a little lower and you can definitely see part of my bra if the collar moves a but, so it may be a good idea to wear a tank underneath

There is an array of colors online and they are all marked down to $25. I love how versatile this shirt can be, so ordered it in the new olive, and the tawny port.




The second item is the VINCE CAMUTO HILLSY BOOTS. I purchased these boots back in September after seeing numerous positive review on popular blogs and have worn these a ton!
They are extremely versatile and can be worn in the spring, fall, and warmer winter days. I originally purchased these for $158, and they are now marked down to $95, making it a 40% discount.




Lastly, the BP COLOR BLOCK BLANKET SCARF - I purchase this in Navy multi for $30, but is now 50% off for under $15. I wanted to try out the blanket scarf trend this year. I was a little hesitant because these scarves can often overpower my small frame, but when worn correctly, can be extremely stylish while keeping you warm!
I love the array of colors on this scarf because I've been able to pair it with pieces that have the same color as any of the colors on the scarf.

Here, I've paired it with a gray sweater.

Pairing it with an olive green sweater.

I want to mention that if you shop on NORDSTROM using EBATES,  you can earn cash back. I have been using this site for about 5 years now and have received over $600 in checks. I use this site for shopping on almost everything, including movie tickets on FANDANGO.


On an unrelated note. I have been a huge fan or weekly/monthly planners ever since my college years and used them avidly during law school. To make planning  a little more fun, I always look for fun planners and love to color coordinate items. I stopped my my local Marshalls and ran into a huge collection of 2016 planners, all of which are less than $10. Here are some examples of the cute planners that were available. I wanted to mention this in case any of you are big fans of planners. I picked up a gray one one with copper details.

Happy shopping!