You, Me & Anthropologie

February My Glam Bag

2012-02-24T09:00:00.001-05:00

Last month, I decided to sign up for a new subscription service that I heard about through Youtube called MyGlam. It's basically the same concept as Birchbox. For $10 a month, you get 4-5 deluxe-sized samples (sometimes even full-size products) in a cute little "Glam Bag". They have you take a beauty quiz when you first sign up to help create your beauty profile, but I think this is pretty useless because from what I've seen on Youtube, everyone gets the exact same products in their bags (the colors and scents of products may differ).

This month, the Glam Bag arrived in a hot pink package for Valentine's Day.

Inside the package, I found this cute hot pink makeup bag covered in little black hearts (the samples are inside). I love that they not only give you different samples each month, but also different bags that you can use that aren't (for lack of a better word) ugly.

Descriptions of all of my samples were listed on this adorable card.

And finally, a look at what actually came in my bag.

I got...

NYX Roll On Shimmer-Beautiful taupe color, but as you all know, I hate glitter, so I won't be using it.
X Out Shine Control-This is an oil-free moisturizer that helps eliminate shine. I have very dry skin, especially in the winter, so I probably won't be using this one either.
Freeman Facial Mask in Goji Berry-This mask is supposed to hydrate the skin, which is exactly what I need.
NuMe $100 Gift Card-I'm still trying to figure out the catch with this one. Why would a company give out $100 gift cards to everyone? I'm guessing they're new and just want to get their name and products out there. They sell styling tools, hair extensions, hair care products, etc. Most of the styling tools run $135-$165.
Premier Eye Cream and Revitalizing Mask
That gray box on the left came with 2 Ghirardelli chocolate squares inside :)

Overall, I was pretty disappointed with my first Glam Bag. I don't think it was worth the $10 (for me). I was hoping to get more makeup products and less skin care products. I'm thinking I'll probably keep my subscription for another 2 months and then if I'm still not loving it, I'll cancel.

Have any of you signed up for MyGlam? What are your thoughts on it?

Glow in the Dark

2012-02-23T07:45:00.001-05:00

Coat: Anthropologie Bow Topped Coat

Jeans: J.Crew

Clutch: Anthropologie Polka Rounds Clutch

Boots: Target

The weather on Sunday was pretty cold and gloomy, so I wanted to wear something warm and comfortable, but I also wanted to look cute. I didn't have any cute/warm tops to wear that I haven't already worn 20 times this month (I'm still trying to build up my top collection), so I decided to wear my new (ish) Anthropologie coat as a top. Of course I had a simple top on underneath it, but no one ever saw it because I kept the coat on and buttoned up the entire time I was out and about.

Thanks to all of you who wished me a happy birthday yesterday :) Your comments actually reminded me that I still need to go and use my Anthro birthday discount. I'm thinking I probably won't buy any clothes, but there are several things in the home section that I have my eye on (like this).

Birthday Weekend

2012-02-21T23:07:00.000-05:00

Dress: Anthropologie

Cardigan: The Limited

Shoes: DSW

Clutch: Anthropologie

So not only is today Fat Tuesday, Pancake Day, and Alan Rickman's birthday (Snape from Harry Potter), but it's also my birthday! My husband and I celebrated this weekend by going to brunch at one of my new favorite restaurants, Founding Farmers. I had their bananas foster stuffed french toast for the first time and let me tell you, it was amazing! Can't wait to go back so that I can try their red velvet pancakes :)

Then we went to my favorite museum in the city, the Newseum. They currently have a really interesting exhibit open called "Photo Finish: The Sports Photography of Neil Leifer". It consists of about 50 pictures that this man took of athletes in all kinda of different sports. I highly recommend it if you're in the area and love sports/photography.

After that, we came home and my husband made me another steak dinner and a Funfetti cake (my favorite). We ate about 90% of the cake over a 2 day period. That's how good it was.

And finally, I opened my presents. My main gift (from my husband) was a pair of binoculars that I've been wanting for awhile now for when we go hiking in the summer.

I'm off to enjoy what's left of my birthday. Bye for now!

February Photo A Day Challenge: Days 15-20

2012-02-20T12:20:00.001-05:00

Day 15-Phone

Cute case, but horrible quality. I've dropped my phone on the ground twice since I got this case and both times it popped right off. Luckily the phone itself has never been damaged, but I'm not taking anymore chances. Getting a new case ASAP!

Day 16-Something New

Last week, I stopped by one of the Targets that I never go to and look what I found sitting in the accessories section waiting for me! I couldn't believe there were 3 of them just sitting there and no one was pushing me out of the way to get to them! I also saw a few clutches, the blue purse, the light blue scarf, and one of the totes. I'm guessing they were all recent returns because there's no way all that stuff would still be there from the initial launch.

Day 17-Time (To Read)

I got this book for Christmas, but am just now starting to read it. It's geared toward young adults, but I'm really enjoying it so far. Click here to read a short summary.

Day 18-Drink

On Saturday, I decided I wanted to try the chocolate smoothie from Starbucks. So I walked to the closest one, they took my order, and then as they started making it, they realized they were out of bananas (which you need to make the smoothie). They told me that they could still make it, but that it wouldn't taste as good. I passed and just got my money back. Then I walked to the next closest Starbucks and they too were out of bananas (At this point, I was seriously half tempted to just walk to the grocery store and buy them a bunch of bananas so that they could make my drink). I was not going home without my smoothie, so I walked to one more Starbucks and thankfully, they had bananas! Mission complete :)

Day 19-Something You Hate To Do

Cleaning the bathroom! It's not even the toilet that I hate cleaning (I actually don't mind doing that), it's the counter. I hate taking everything off of it and then having to put it all back on (there's a lot more stuff on the other side of the counter that's not shown). Sometimes I cheat and just clean around the stuff on the counter :)

Day 20-Handwriting

Not the best, but hey, at least it's legible.

Red, White, and Wu

2012-02-16T22:10:00.001-05:00

Cardigan: Target

Tank: Old Navy

Skirt: Jason Wu for Target

Tights: Kohl's

Shoes: Target

This skirt was one of the only things that I was able to grab at Target the morning the Jason Wu for Target collection launched. I don't think the shelf that that these skirts were on had even been touched when I got there because they were hidden on a bottom rack and all the crazies (as I like to call them) were reaching for things at eye level. I knew that I really wanted it when I first saw it styled in the lookbook online, but I actually almost passed on it after I tried it on because I didn't think that it was going to be easy to style (and still don't). It has white on it and then a little red and yellow, but what colors do I wear with it other than those?

If you are still looking for this skirt and somehow manage to find one in store or reasonably priced on eBay, I would recommend going with your normal size. I tried on both the 4 and the 6 and while the 4 zipped up, it was way too tight when I sat down in it. The 6 sits lower on the waist, but still falls slightly above my knees.

February Photo A Day Challenge-Day 14 (Heart)

2012-02-14T16:08:00.001-05:00

Happy Valentine's Day! Hope you all get to spend some time with those you love most today :)

Oh and if you get a chance, be sure to check out Google's homepage today. They put up one of the cutest cartoon's I think I've ever seen. I've watched it probably 5 times already today and will probably watch it another 5 times before the night is over!

February Photo A Day Challenge-Day 13 (Blue)

2012-02-13T19:15:00.001-05:00

I found this wine on sale for $4.99 a few weeks ago at World Market and decided to pick it up because I'm a big fan of the other Polka Dot Riesling with the pink dot on the front. Surprisingly, this one tasted even better. I'm thinking it must be a new variety because I've never seen it at Target or my local grocery stores. I also saw online that there's another Polka Dot Riesling with a green dot on the front. Have any of you tried that one?

February Photo A Day Challenge-Day 12 (Inside Your Closet)

2012-02-12T11:08:00.000-05:00

Welcome to my closet! I cleaned it up just for you guys :)

*Seriously, it's always a disaster at the end of the workweek. Shoes are thrown all over the floor, belts are falling off of the hanger that I keep them on, and the hangers with my clothes on them are usually hanging off of other hangers because I'm too lazy to put them back where they belong at the end of the day.

Click here if you want to see the complete closet tour that I did back in July.

February Photo A Day Challenge-Day 11 (Makes You Happy)

2012-02-11T22:00:00.000-05:00

My husband and I decided to celebrate Valentine's Day early today since it falls on a weekday this year. I told him that I didn't want any gifts/flowers/chocolates, I just wanted him to go and see The Vow with me. He agreed, but he wasn't happy about it. I also suggested that we do a home cooked meal rather than going out to some fancy restaurant. He liked that idea and decided he wanted to create the menu/get the food/cook the food all by himself. This is the plate he made up for me. The steak was so good! Then he made a huge pot of chocolate fondue and we used bananas, strawberries, and pretzels as dippers. Definitely a big fan of these more low-key Valentine's Day celebrations :)

February Photo A Day Challenge-Day 10 (Self Portrait)

2012-02-10T19:41:00.001-05:00

On the agenda for the evening...

1) Watch the last 3 episodes of Project Runway All Stars (Go Mondo!)

2) Try on my Jason Wu for Target purchases that arrived in the mail today (Yay!)

3) Hang out with my good friends Ben & Jerry (They always know how to make me feel better after a hard day at work)

What are you up to tonight?

February Photo A Day Challenge-Day 9 (Front Door)

2012-02-09T20:16:00.000-05:00

Seeing this always brings a big smile to my face after a long and stressful day at work.

Thank You Berry Much

2012-02-08T22:44:00.000-05:00

Dress: Anthropologie Dulce Dress

Cardigan: Target

Shoes: Anthropologie Slinking Frills Heels

Tights: Kohl's

Scarf: Forever 21

Bag: Kate Spade

I LOVE this dress, but don't wear it much because I have a really hard time styling it. I can't wear it by itself because the neutral colors against my skin tone make me look dead (it's too cold for that anyway) and the only color I've found that really works well with it is navy. I think the brown cardigan here works, but the look is still a little too dull/bland for me. The raspberry colored flowers in the scarf and the bright bag do help add some life to the outfit, but the problem is I can't carry a big bag around with me at work all day.

Any ideas on how I can spice this dress up a bit?

Oh and no February photo a day challenge today. The theme for today was "sun" and of course the sun decided it didn't want to come out at all today. My husband told me to take a picture of a little boy and call him my "son", but I passed because, well, that's just creepy.

February Photo A Day Challenge-Day 7 (Button)

2012-02-07T20:53:00.002-05:00

Everyone's favorite button :)

February Photo A Day Challenge-Day 6 (Dinner)

2012-02-06T18:11:00.004-05:00

Dinner at CiCi's Pizza Buffet. Don't judge.

Tonight is actually the first time in probably 5 years that I've been to CiCi's. Why, you might ask? Well you see, the last time I went, I turned into a human vacuum cleaner. I had probably 8-9 pieces of pizza, a few breadsticks, a plate of salad, 1 piece of dessert pizza, 3 brownies...it was not pretty. Now whenever we pass by a CiCi's, my husband gives me a look or makes some comment like "Remember that time we went to CiCi's and you ate enough food to feed a small village?". He's tried to get me to go back, but I always refuse.

Well this year for his birthday, I got him a gift card for CiCi's and agreed to go back with him one time because I know he likes it. Luckily I managed to control myself a little bit better this time around. I only ate 3 pieces of pizza, 1 brownie, and 1 cinnamon roll.

The one (and only) thing I do really like about CiCi's? They play 80's and 90's music non-stop :)

February Photo A Day Challenge-Day 5 (10am) and Jason Wu for Target Fail

2012-02-05T11:00:00.000-05:00

Breakfast of champions. In my case though, it's the breakfast of failures. I got to my Target store at 7:25am this morning for the Jason Wu launch and was 5th in line at the set of doors on the right side (there were 5 men there too, but I wasn't worried about them). There's also a set of doors on the left side of the store, but I chose the right side because the line was shorter.

I was pretty excited and thought that I had a great chance of getting the navy Poplin Dress that I wanted, until the manager came outside. She told us she had no idea there would be that many women there and that she was the only manager working. She said that she was only going to open the doors on the other side because there was such a big crowd, so we all had to move. We were not happy to say the least. Especially the girl at the front of the line who got there at 6am, before everyone on both sides.

At that point, I was about 35 people back from the front of the line. When they opened the doors at 8am, it was madness. Women were running everywhere and grabbing any piece of clothing they could find in any size. I grabbed the navy floral dress with the yellow belt and the skirt in the same print. I tried on the skirt and really liked it, but the dress was too big (I found one later in my size and just bought it without trying it on).

Once I was out of the fitting room, I stood there like a crazy person (along with probably 7-8 other women) waiting for women to come out with the pieces they didn't want. Of course no one came out with the Poplin Dress.

I then called my mom and had her go to her Target in my small hometown. She said she walked in right at 8am and there wasn't a single person there. The problem...they only received half the collection. No Poplin Dress :/

What I learned from this experience today...

1) Don't ever go to a Target with 2 sets of doors when a collection like this releases.

2) Women are crazy. Some women were giving their phone numbers and email addresses to complete strangers so that they could contact them if certain sizes didn't work out.

3) It's just clothes. Life will go on!

How were your experiences at Target this morning? Were the lines super long? Did you get everything that you wanted?

February Photo A Day Challenge-Day 4 (A Stranger)

2012-02-04T22:00:00.001-05:00

The man making my banana cream pie mini blizzard at Dairy Queen.

*Wouldn't recommend this blizzard. The cookies they put in it are always stale :/

Jason Wu for Target

2012-02-04T14:30:00.000-05:00

You guys know what tomorrow is, don't you? No, not the Super Bowl. I mean, yes, it is tomorrow, but I could really care less about that. I'm sure I'll have it on in the background so that I can see the new commercials, but I won't be watching the game at all. Tomorrow is the day the Jason Wu for Target collection launches! Anyone else excited? I've got my running shoes and elbow pads out and ready to go :)

Here's a look at the clothes I'm hoping to try on:

Poplin Dress in Navy-$40

Long-Sleeved Pointelle Sweater in Red-$40

Pleated Cap-Sleeved Blouse in Red-$27

Pleated Skirt in Navy Floral-$30

Pleated Canvas Skirt in Belize Blue-$30

Flared Dress in Cream with Black Patent Belt-$60

I'm also hoping that this bag is just as cute IRL as it is online:

Front-Flap Bag in Cream/Black-$50

Ok, now is where I need some help from you guys. I've never been to Target right when a collection like this first launches, so I need to know...

1) If Target opens at 8, what time should I get there? Right at 8? 7:30?

2) Are there going to be a crap ton of crazy women there with me right when the store opens? Am I going to have to fight to the death to get the sizes that I want?

3) Is it better to hit up the accessories section first or the clothing section?

4) Are Target stores guaranteed to have this collection out on the floor right at 8? Is there a chance they might put it out later in the day?

5) What time do collections like these usually launch online? I remember the Target website crashed when Missoni for Target was released, so should I even bother going this route?

6) If I do order online, should I get everything in my normal size small? Do I try and order more than one size of everything?

Thanks in advance for the answers to my questions and good luck tomorrow if you're going to Target!

*All images taken from teenvogue.com

February Photo A Day Challenge-Day 3 (Hands)

2012-02-04T11:25:00.000-05:00

I know I'm late with day 3 of the challenge, but I promise I took this picture yesterday! I was in bed last night putting this post together and the next thing I knew, it was 8:30 in the morning and my post still hadn't gone up. Ooops!

February Photo A Day Challenge-Day 2 (Words)

2012-02-02T21:15:00.001-05:00

Today is day 2 of the February photo a day challenge and the theme is "Words". I decided to take a picture of two books full of words that I loved to read when I was younger. Reading these books always brought such a big smile to my face and I can remember re-reading them over and over and over again and never getting tired of the silly stories. Even as an adult, I still bring them out every once in awhile when I want a quick and easy read or I need a good laugh. Think I'll go flip through a couple pages right now :)

February Photo A Day Challenge-Day 1 (Your View Today)

2012-02-01T22:48:00.001-05:00

For the month of February, I've decided to do Fat Mum Slim's February photo a day challenge. The rules are simple. Take a photo each day that's somehow related to the theme/description that's given on the list above. Then share your photos on your blog, Twitter, Facebook, etc. Pretty easy and I think it's going to be a lot of fun!

Here's my photo for day 1. I decided to take a walk after work since it was 65 degrees outside (crazy!) and this was my view...

See you tomorrow for day 2!

Another Anthropologie Dulcie Dress Dupe

2012-02-01T11:40:00.000-05:00

Anthropologie Dulcie Dress

Remember back in November when I showed you guys the dress at American Eagle that somewhat resembled the Anthro Dulcie Dress? Well if you thought that dupe was good, wait until you see this one...

I spotted it today on Kendi's blog. It's the Tiramisu Tea Dress from Lily Boutique. In the picture, it looks like it's more brown than the Dulcie Dress and that sheer layer of tulle over the skirt looks like it's a little bit longer than the original, but other than that, they look very similar. The best part? It's only $33! Much more affordable than the Dulcie Dress, which was going for $158.

I've never purchased anything from Lily Boutique (I honestly hadn't even heard of them until I read Kendi's post today), so I can't speak to the quality of their clothes, but if you're still hopelessly searching for the Dulcie Dress in stores/online, this might be the perfect option for you :)

Happy Birthday Husband

2012-01-31T22:32:00.000-05:00

Dress: Anthropologie

Cardigan: J.Crew

Tights: Hue

Shoes: Anthropologie

Clutch: The Limited

My husband celebrated his birthday about 10 days ago and this is what I wore to his birthday dinner that night. Looking back, this dress probably wasn't the best choice because it's pretty snug and we went to a churrascaria (Brazilian steakhouse). Which means I ate a lot of food and my ever expanding stomach had nowhere to go. I had to wear it though because it's the only non-cutesy, fancy dress that I own (my husband doesn't really like the cutesy look). I like to call it my "sexy" Anthro dress. No, it's really not that sexy at all on it's own, but it is when you compare it to the rest of the Anthro dresses in my closet.

The last time I wore this dress, I went with red tights, black heels, and no cardigan. I decided to switch things up this time by wearing purple tights and brown/gray/gold/tan (I honestly have no clue what color you call those heels) heels. It was pretty chilly that night, so I also threw on a black cardigan. Looking back, I have to say, I love the first look I put together with this dress ten times more than this one. The red tights just really popped against the black dress and you could see the bow a lot better when I wasn't wearing a cardigan.

Which look do you like better? Red or purple? What color tights/shoes do you think I should pair with this dress the next time I wear it?

5 Products I Regret Buying Part 2

2012-01-30T23:53:00.000-05:00

Urban Decay All Nighter Long-Lasting Makeup Setting Spray

I'm always skeptical of products like these. I seriously believe that some of them just have water inside and the people who created them are laughing their way to the bank. Well I decided to give this one a try because it was fairly inexpensive (I got the mini size) and I wanted to see if it actually did anything. Honestly, I'm now even more convinced that there's just water inside of that bottle because my makeup didn't last any longer or look any different than it normally does.

Revlon Lip Butter in Sugar Frosting

I love most of the Revlon Lip Butters, but this is one that I wish I would have passed on. It's a light pink color, so I thought that it would be good for everyday wear, but it barely shows up on my lips. I have to really layer it on for anything to show up. It also has little shimmers in it, which I'm not a big fan of. I usually try and go for more matte lip colors. There are tons of very pigmented colors to choose from in this line, so don't waste your money on this one.

Sigma Large Angled Contour Brush (F40)

I already have the MAC version of this brush, but I wanted to try this one out just to see how comparable Sigma brushes are to MAC brushes. Turns out they really aren't comparable at all (at least this brush wasn't). The bristles of the MAC version are densely packed and the brush places your blush color exactly where you want it on your cheeks. The Sigma brush is bigger and the bristles are not as densely packed together. They're very soft and flimsy. When I use it, my blush color spreads all over my cheek instead of right on the apples of my cheeks. The Sigma brush may be less than half the cost of the MAC brush, but the quality just isn't there. I'd rather spend more money on a good quality brush that's probably going to last me forever.

CoverGirl LashBlast 24 Hour Mascara

CoverGirl wasn't lying when they said that this mascara will last you 24hrs. Trust me, it will last you 24hrs and then some because you won't be able to get the stuff off of your eyes! I went to take this off a few nights ago with my Neutrogena makeup remover wipes and it wouldn't budge. Not even a tiny black smudge came off on the wipe. So I wore it to bed, hoping that it would come off in the shower in the morning like my other mascaras do when I have a little left on my eyes. Nope, it was all still there after my shower. Then I tried soaking a cotton ball in my Neutrogena Oil Free Eye Makeup Remover and putting that on my eye. After about 10-15 minutes of holding that on my eye, the mascara finally started to come off. Then I had to spend another 5 minutes cleaning the little black specks of mascara off of my face. I seriously think CoverGirl just took a waterproof formula, stuck it in this tube, and called it a 24hr mascara. If I wanted waterproof, I would have bought the waterproof version. I can't even imagine how hard that stuff must be to get off. Will be returning this and highly recommend that you DON't buy it.

Butter London Nail Lacquer in Henley Regatta

This polish is gorgeous in the bottle. My eye was immediately drawn to it when I first walked over to the Butter London display at my ULTA store. It's a sparkly teal color with blue shimmers in it. The problem is that the color that you see in the bottle isn't what you get on your nails. One coat of this on your nails just looks like a clear polish with a little sparkle to it. I got a little more sparkle with the second coat, but nothing like what I was expecting. If I'm going to spend $14 on a nail polish, it better be just as good, if not better than my OPI and Essie polishes that only cost $8. It wasn't, so it will definitely be getting returned.

Have any regrets of your own? Share them with us in the comments so that we don't make the same mistakes!

January Favorites

2012-01-28T23:40:00.000-05:00

Keurig

I know I said that my husband was stupid for buying me this for Christmas, but now I love it (it's his...we returned mine)! I use it to make hot chocolate probably 5-6 nights a week. It's so much faster than using the microwave and I don't have to worry about cleaning up a powdery mess when I'm done. The Grove Square dark chocolate cups are my favorite :)

Old Navy Women's Printed Crew-Neck Pullovers (Currently Sold Out)

My husband bought this sweater for me in both the navy and the pink back in December for only $10 (each)! I think I've worn it a good 4-5 times already this month just because it's so stinkin cute!

Philosophy Marshmallows For Toasting Gloss

I've never tried the Philosophy lip glosses before, so I was excited when I saw that my mom threw one in my stocking at Christmas. The one that I got is pretty sheer and full of shimmer, but it does give my lips a nice shine. It doesn't smell anything like toasted marshmallows to me. It has a very strong syrup scent to it. It is sticky, so I try and wear it on days when I know the wind won't be blowing in my hair. I'm pretty sure this flavor/scent was only around for the holidays, but I know they have tons of other ones to choose from at Sephora and ULTA for $10 each.

Urban Decay Naked 2 Palette

Another great gift from my momma :) It comes with 12 shadows, a double sided brush (I didn't like the shape/size of the brushes), and a lip gloss. The gloss is very sticky and smells minty, which I'm not a big fan of, but I do like the color. The shadows have amazing pigmentation and they last all day long on your eyes and then some. Only about 3 shades are matte and then the rest have shimmer in them. If you have the original Naked Palette, you probably don't need to go out and buy this one too. The shadows in Naked 2 are more cool toned, but for the most part, they're very similar to the shadows in Naked 1.

L'Oreal Paris Colour Riche Balm

These balms are definitely not as pigmented as the Revlon Lip Butters, but I find them to be a lot more moisturizing and long lasting. They give my lips a nice glossy look and I love that you don't really need a mirror to apply them. There are about 8 colors available and they run $7-$8 at places like Walgreens and CVS. My favorites are Tender Mauve and Heavenly Berry.

Maybelline Dream Bouncy Blush

These blushes are unlike any that I've ever seen before. They are squishy when you push down on them. Kind of like memory foam. I think there are probably 8-10 colors available and they go for about $6-$7 at the drugstore. I've heard others say they aren't very pigmented, but the pink one that I have shows up just fine on my cheeks. Probably because I'm pale as a ghost. If you have darker skin, you may want to stay away from the lighter colors. I just apply it with my fingers and it lasts the entire work day. Will probably pick up a few more of these when they go on sale again at the drugstore.

OPI Designer De Better

This polish came out with "The Muppets" collection late last year. It's not out in stores anymore, but I'm sure you can still find it online. It's a very interesting color...In certain lighting, it looks like it's a rose gold color with tiny red shimmers and in other lighting, it looks like it's silver with orange flecks. It's very shiny, stays on for a good 6 days without chipping, and only takes 2 coats to get the color that you see in the bottle.

The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo

This was definitely the best movie that I saw this month. Probably the best that I've seen in the last year. My eyes were glued to the screen the entire time (and not just because Daniel Craig was up on the screen) and if I could have, I would have stayed and watched it again. Highly recommend seeing it if you haven't already.

Zucchini

The last few weeks I've been eating this with my dinner almost every single night. I cut it up into 1/4 inch slices, coat it with an olive oil/salt/pepper mixture, throw it on a pan, and in less than 10 minutes, it's ready to eat!

Songs

Flo Rida-Good Feeling

Gym Class Heroes-Ass Back Home

TV Shows

Project Runway All Stars

Sweet Home Alabama

What were some of your favorite things during the month of January?

Anthropologie Fitting Room Reviews: Unconditional Osier Dress, Striped Stripes Dress, Embossed Basket Dress, and Open Arms Dress

2012-01-25T07:15:00.000-05:00

I apologize in advance for the horrible quality of these pictures. This was my first time using these fitting rooms, so I had no clue they had such horrible lighting!

Unconditional Osier Dress by Weston Wear-$168

Size Small

LOVE this dress. I wanted to take it home with me that same day, but I'm trying my hardest to hold out until it goes on sale (or at least until February 1st gets here so that I can use my birthday discount on it). My normal size small fit well, but was a little snug in the arms. I don't know that they were tight enough to warrant going up a size though. As you can see in the pictures, the slip of the dress is a tad bit shorter than the shell, but both were long enough for me to be able to wear this to work. The nice thing about this dress is that the shell and the slip are two separate pieces, so I had no trouble getting the dress on. The dress has a side zip, no pockets, and is dry clean only. My one issue with this dress? It's so delicate! I was so worried that I was going to rip a huge hole in it when I was putting it on and taking it off. I still highly recommend it, but be gentle with it!

Striped Stripes Dress from Plenty by Tracy Reese-$198

Size 4

Very creative with the name Anthropologie. Don't think the In Pursuit of Pretty Things girls will have to do much research to figure out the meaning behind that one :) I tried on my normal size 4 and while it fit, it was a little too snug for me when I did up the belt. The fit was fine though when the belt was undone. The bottom of the dress hit me right below the knee, which as you all know is a little too long for my liking. I honestly had no clue that this was a strapless dress because my dress came with the straps already attached. I kinda wish it wouldn't have though because I wasn't a fan of them. They looked like bra straps to me and felt pretty cheap. The silk material of the dress is very thin and there isn't a lining, but I didn't notice that it was see through at all (I sure hope it wasn't because I walked around in front of several people in this!). Even if the dress was lined and the fit was perfect, I still would have passed because of the high price and those, shall we say, interesting colors.

Embossed Basket Dress by Ganni-$168

Size Small

I LOVED the royal blue color of this dress. I wish Anthro would make more dresses in this color instead of in navy blue. Two other big plusses for this dress are that it has a back zip and it's machine washable. In store, I thought my normal size small fit fine. It was a little snug, but the material has some stretch to it, so it was was still comfortable. Once I got home though, I looked at these pictures and realized the dress really doesn't look that flattering on me. Something is off about the waist and from the side, the skirt looks flat. Another pass.

Open Arms Dress-$198

Size 4

I felt like I should have been running around with Harry Potter and Ron in this dress. Doesn't it look like something the older, more fashionable girls would wear at Hogwarts? The website says that this dress is supposed to be navy, but IRL, I had a hard time telling if it was navy or black. Then of course it has the gold dots all over it. Now normally I'm a huge fan of polka dots, but not when they're polka dots that look like horizontal stripes. The dress has buttons all down the front, so it was very easy to put on and it also does have pockets. My normal size 4 was a comfortable fit, but there was some extra room in the waist. I think I'd probably just wear a belt with it though rather than going down a size because there wasn't THAT much extra room there. Now my big issue with this dress is that the sleeves were not flattering at all. They bunched up and poofed out when my arms weren't straight down at my sides. I'm not sure why they did this. Don't most women like a more fitted sleeve (or no sleeve at all)? Pass for me.

Happy Birthday from Anthropologie!

2012-01-21T12:33:00.001-05:00

Look what showed up in my mailbox yesterday...

My Anthropologie birthday discount! It sort of reminds me of a golden ticket like the ones in Willy Wonka & the Chocolate Factory. I'm guessing they went with red (it's more of an orange-y red) and white for Valentine's Day, but I could be totally wrong about that.

Here's what the card looks like when you take the red sleeve off...

How cute is that little clock?? It's actually a bracelet and the nice thing about it is that the string is adjustable. When you take it off the card, the saying underneath Happy Birthday! reads, "Go ahead and treat yourself to some me time". Kudos to Anthro for always giving us something cute and functional with our birthday discounts and for getting my discount to me so early this year! I know some people don't get them until around the 10th of their actual birthday month.

I honestly have no clue what I'm going to use my discount on this year. There's really nothing out in stores right now that I have to have. I'm hoping that lots of amazing new arrivals will show up in February. If not, there's always the Volcano candle (this is what I buy and I tell others to buy with the discount when I/they can't find anything else)!

Have you ladies with February birthdays gotten your Anthro birthday discount yet? What are you planning to buy with it?

Spring has Sprung!

2012-01-19T07:27:00.004-05:00

You guys know what's messed up? The other day, I was walking though Target wearing my heavy winter coat, gloves, and scarf when I turned to my left and saw a wall full of bikinis in the women's clothing section. That is messed up. Who wants to try on bikinis when it's 30 degrees outside? Not me! I refuse to start trying them on until at least March or April. Of course, they'll probably all be picked over by then and on their way out of the stores, which is even more messed up!

Target isn't the only store who is putting out their spring/summer lines in the dead of winter. Walk into a store like Forever 21 and all you'll see is stripes, bright colors, and nautical themed clothing. J.Crew also has their spring stuff out and I have to say, while I'm not really ready for it to be here yet, I'm loving all of it! Here's a look at some of the pieces that I hope to be wearing 4-5 months from now:

J.Crew Spring Outfit by youmeandanthropologie featuring 18 karat gold jewelry

Kate Spade is another retailer that is cranking out the spring clothing and accessories. Here are some of my favorites (a few of these came out a few months ago, but they're on my wish list, so I included them):

Sequined Caroline Sweater

Bailey Dress

Striped Adette Dress

Daycation Bon Shopper Baby Bag

Cobble Hill Ellen

All Aboard Little Gia

Le Pavillion Large Maneula

Juliana Too

Karolina

Are you planning on stocking up on warm weather attire now or will you wait until spring officially gets here (March 20 is the official start of spring)? What spring trends are you most excited for?

Anthropologie Fitting Room Reviews: Dropped Dots Dress, Bike Lane Dress, Ribbon Grass Dress, and Aubergine Sky Dress

2012-01-17T22:37:00.000-05:00

Don't you just love that model shot?

Dropped Dots Dress by Lili's Closet-$158

Size 6

You guys know that I love polka dots (hello iPhone case), so I was really excited when I saw this lovely dress pop up on the website. You can't really tell in the pictures, but the dress is navy, not black. I usually wear a size 4 in Anthro dresses, but I had to size up to a 6 with this one. It fit perfectly at my waist, but sadly, it was just a tad too big in the shoulders. If I stood straight up with my shoulders back, the sleeves would stay up, but as soon as I moved my shoulders forward even a little bit, the sleeves slipped down my arms. I'm sure Kate Middleton could make it work, but there's no way I can sit 10min with perfect posture, let alone an entire day! I'm still not sure how I feel about the dropped waist. It looks good from the side, but from the front, the skirt looked a little too poofy. I think my favorite part of this dress has to be the back. It's cut into a deep-V, but doesn't expose your bra. The dress also has a back zip and pockets, both of which I love. Pass for me because of the fit, but I loved everything else about it.

Bike Lane Dress by Pilcro-$158

Size 4

This dress has been getting a lot of amazing reviews on the Anthro/fashion blogs, but I have to say...I...didn't...really...like...it. There I said it! Sure, I loved the quirky bicycle print, but other than that, I was less than thrilled with it. My normal size 4 fit perfectly at the bust and cinched my waist in nicely, but the length was way too long. Like past my knees long. And was it just me or was this dress really hard to get on? I swear, I spent a good five minutes trying to get those buttons in the back done up and I just couldn't do it (where were my Go-Go-Gadget arms when I needed them?)! So I just left them undone and hoped it wouldn't be too noticeable in the pictures. I would think most people would need someone to help them into this dress every time they wore it. Another big reason that I didn't like the dress was the color. I felt like it washed me out and was just kinda blah. Maybe it would look better with a red cardigan, brown belt, and brown boots? I think I'm one of the only ones out there who will be passing on this dress.

Ribbon Grass Dress by Sariah-$188

Size 4

Ok, so I know it looks like the 4th of July threw up all over me, but I actually kinda liked this dress! It has a back zip and buttons in the back just like the last dress, but somehow, I was able to get these buttons done up on my own. Maybe I got more flexible as I tried on more dresses? The silk material was very comfortable and light, perfect for warmer days in the spring/summer. The colors are very bright and bold IRL, so if you want to stand out in a crowd, this is your dress. The top part of my normal size 4 fit me really well. It had a blousy feel to it and the straps weren't loose at all. The bottom part of the dress is where we get into some trouble. If you couldn't tell by the pictures, this dress is short. I'm talking real short. It doesn't really look that bad in the pictures, but trust me, it's short. I also found the lining to be a little tight around my hips. I didn't notice it when I walked around the room though (meaning I didn't have to take smaller steps because it was tight). Just when I stood still. Oh and I didn't think those tiers around the hips added any extra bulk to my body. I'm going to pass on this because of the price, length, and the fact that I'm not looking to stand out in a crowd, but I would have to give it a thumbs up!

Aubergine Sky Dress by Girls from Savoy-$168

Size 4

I kinda felt like I looked like a human curtain in this dress, but again, I kinda liked it! The bodice of my normal size 4 fit like a glove and I felt like the overall shape of the dress was very flattering. This is another one that was way too long on me, but I was more forgiving this time because I liked the colors so much. The dress has a back zip and there is ruching at the sides, so there is some give if you happen eat too much one night while wearing this. Oh and another good thing about it is that it's machine washable! On my wish list to reconsider at sale time.

January Birchbox

2012-01-16T19:25:00.001-05:00

It's that time of the month again (no not THAT time of the month)! Time to share with you what I got in my Birchbox!

*Not familiar with Birchbox? Click here to read the first post that I wrote about it. It explains everything you need to know :)

Now onto the goodies!

Jouer Body Butter - This body butter has a very floral scent to it, which I actually kinda like (I normally hate floral scents). The container says that it's enriched with the scents of jasmine, honeysuckle, and gardenia. It reminds me of peonies, which I used to have in my yard when I was growing up. It contains coconut, sweet almond, jojoba, and avocado oils along with shea butter. I used this on my very dry and cracked hands the other day and it made them feel very soft and smooth. The dryness was instantly gone and there was no greasy residue left behind on my hands. Love this product and may actually consider buying a full size container of it in the near future with the Birchbox points I have saved up!

BORGHESE CuraForte Moisture Intensifier - This product is supposed to hydrate dry skin and it supposedly helps other face products better sink into the skin. You're supposed to apply it morning and night before you apply your moisturizer. It's thin, clear, and has a mild scent to it. Nothing too strong at all. I haven't tried this yet, but I do have dry skin, so I think it should work well for me :)

Juicy Couture Viva La Juicy - I've tried this perfume before in Sephora and am just not a fan of it. It's too floral for me, but I do know quite a few people who are big fans of the scent.

Stila Smudge Stick Waterproof Eye Liner in Peacock - I'm pretty sure this is a full size sample, which normally sells for $20 in stores. I got the color peacock, which is a bright teal/blue color. I haven't worn it on my eyes yet, but it was very pigmented when I swatched it on my hand. It also glided on my hand like butter. Very smooth and creamy.

*Birchbox, I love that you included a makeup product in my box and I especially love that it's full size, but next time, can I get it in a color that I'll actually wear? You know, like brown, gray, black, or even a dark purple. I don't think I could get away with wearing teal eyeliner to work and I don't normally experiment with bright colors on the weekends :/

LARABAR Mini Bar in Peanut Butter Cookie - I've never eaten one of these bars before, so I was excited when I opened my box and saw one inside. It's gluten free, dairy free, and soy free and has 100 calories and 6g of fat. I thought that was quite a lot for the size of the bar that I got. I basically ate it in one bite. It tasted just like a peanut butter cookie and was a nice mid-afternoon snack. I don't think that I would buy this flavor again, but I would definitely buy a full size bar in a different flavor.

What did you get in your Birchbox this month?

Best and Worst of the Golden Globes 2012

2012-01-16T11:08:00.002-05:00

Did any of you guys watch the Golden Globes last night? My eyes were glued to the TV all night long, but I have to say, I was pretty underwhelmed with most of the dresses on the red carpet and with the show itself. I thought there was too much blush/neutral going on and not enough color and you could tell that they had Ricky Gervais water down his jokes this year. Don't get me wrong, he was still funny, just not as hilarious as he was last year.

With that said, I did have a handful of favorites on the red carpet...

Best Dressed

Jessica Alba

Charlize Theron

Emma Stone

Best Hair

Nicole Richie

*Credit for all images above: Steve Granitz/WireImage

Best in Black

Rooney Mara

Credit: Jeff Vespa/WireImage

Most Surprising Dress

Is that Tina Fey, in color?? Looks so much better on her than the black she normally wears.

Tina Fey

*Credit: Steve Granitz/WireImage

Worst Dressed

I had no problems at all choosing the winners for this category. I honestly don't know what Zooey was thinking. I thought she looked like some kind of snake/lizard with the green and the black and were those sideburns I saw on her?

Zooey Deschanel

And this is why you don't let your 2yr old choose your dress for a major awards show.

Sarah Michelle Gellar

*Credit for worst dressed images: Jason Merritt/Getty Images

Biggest Disappointment

I swear, she is one of the most gorgeous women alive, but I feel like she never gets it right on the red carpet. The stark white dress with her skin tone and dark hair just doesn't look good and the dress itself just isn't very youthful (at least from the waist up).

Jessica Biel

*Credit: Lionel Hahn/Abaca

Who were your picks for best and worst dressed of the night?

*All images from usmagazine.com and people.com

Stranger in the Night

2012-01-15T18:22:00.000-05:00

Cardigan: Anthropologie

Tank: Old Navy

Jeans: Gap

Belt: Anthropologie

Boots: Nordstrom

Funny story time (at least I thought it was funny after it happened)! The other night, I was sleeping peacefully on the couch at about 11:30pm when I suddenly heard a loud knock at the door. At first I thought that I was dreaming, so I just ignored it, but a few seconds later, it happened again. I definitely wasn't dreaming!

I quickly jumped up and tip-toed over to the door. I peeked out the hole in the door (what the heck is that thing called?) and saw a man who I didn't know standing there. At that point, I started to freak out. Who the heck would be knocking on the door at 11:30pm? I ran back to the room that my husband was in and told him that a strange man was knocking on the door. So he came out and looked through the hole. I told him to just ignore the guy and he'd go away, but he wanted to go out and see who it was. So he went to our room to get his robe.

While he was gone, the man behind the door started talking on his phone. He was speaking Spanish, so I couldn't understand him, but in my mind, I was thinking that he was calling his buddies for back-up or calling his boss to get the ok to bust our door down (I have a very wild imagination).

My husband finally came back with his robe and was dead set on seeing who was at the door. So I grabbed my pepper spray and hid behind a wall that's close to the door. That way if the guy knocked my husband out, I could surprise him when he came down the hall with a spray to the face and a kick to the groin.

My husband slowly opened the door and guess what? No one was there! He looked to the left. No one there. Then he looked to the right and guess what he saw? Not a burglar, but a pizza man walking to the place next door! Apparently he had gone to the wrong address.

Oops! Boy was I off! Better safe than sorry though, right?

Stream of Consciousness

2012-01-10T22:40:00.001-05:00

Dress: Anthropologie Mompos Dress

Cardigan: Anthropologie Blooming Lattice Cardigan

Boots: Steve Madden

Bag: Kate Spade

I really hate how these boots look with this outfit. Never again.

Bare legs in January is just not right.

Why is Wildfox Couture clothing so dang expensive?

Hungry...think I'll have some Better Cheddars. Oprah would be so pissed at me right now because it's after 7pm.

I need a freaking construction worker on Tiny Tower!

It's January 10th and my Christmas decorations are still out. That's a problem.

Seriously snow, when are you coming?

Can't wait to get my Birchbox in a few days!

Big mistake buying that new Cinnamon Toast Crunch cereal. So gross!

Can't wait for the Jason Wu for Target collection to come out! Need to figure out my POA for that day so I don't miss out on the Poplin Dress in navy and maybe a few of the skirts (see the entire collection here).

Can't forget to watch the Golden Globes this weekend.

So much for going to bed earlier this year. I haven't been in bed before 11 once yet this year :/ Good news is that I still have 350 something more days to work on that one :)

Zoom Zoom Zoom

2012-01-09T15:48:00.000-05:00

Sweater: Old Navy

Jeans: J.Crew

Boots: Steve Madden

Bag: Kate Spade

The weather was gorgeous here in DC over the weekend, so my husband and I decided to take full advantage of it by using our Living Social vouchers for a 3hr segway tour around the city.

I have to admit, I was a little nervous about riding a segway because of my past experience with bicycles (I can't ride one and have fallen off of them many a time). I had visions of me slamming right into a bus on Pennsylvania Avenue or not being able to stop and running right over a small child. Luckily, none of those scenarios ended up happening. Segways are actually a lot easier to steer and maneuver than you would think. You just lean forward to go and back to stop.

Oh and remember how I once told you guys about how I have a very large head? I really wasn't kidding! I was one of the only people there (out of the men and the women) who had to take a helmet from the "large" bin (they had small, medium, and large helmets) and even that size just barely fit me.

The tour guide took us by all the big monuments, the memorials, the museums, the White House, and the U.S. Capitol building. I kinda felt bad for our guide because everyone in our group was from the area, so we already knew just about all the information he had to share with us. So when he was talking, we all just kinda took pictures and moved around him on our segways.

The whole experience ended up being a blast and I can't wait to do it again when we have family visit. Oh and I've decided that I really want a segway for my birthday next month. They're only like $5,000-$7,000. I'm worth it, right? It would be so much easier for me to get around the city, I just don't know where I would park the thing or put all my shopping bags!

What did you do over the weekend?

Hurry Up and Take the Picture!

2012-01-05T19:21:00.000-05:00

Top: Old Navy

Jeans: J.Crew

Boots: Steve Madden

I think it was a whopping 30 degrees outside when I took these pictures, which is pretty darn cold when you're wearing a see-through top. I kept my coat on and fists clenched for as long as I could. Then I ran over to my spot, forced a few smiles, and then I grabbed my coat and bolted back inside. Freezing cold temperatures and outdoor outfit photos just don't mix.

Over the weekend, I saw The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo at the movie theater. So good! My husband thought that it was too long and wasn't a fan of all the "intense" scenes, but I loved it. I wasn't bored for a second and can't wait to see it again. I plan on watching the original movie this weekend on Netflix and hopefully I can get the book read in the next few months. Highly recommend seeing it if you haven't.

Am I the only one out there who thought that Justin Timberlake and Jessica Biel were still broken up? When did they get back together? I do think they're really cute together and hope they last, but honestly, I give their marriage probably 3 years max. He just doesn't seem like the commitment type.

41 Floors on Tiny Tower. How many do you guys have?

Anyone else going to go see Beauty and the Beast in 3D next weekend? I'll be there...by myself :/ My husband said he wouldn't be caught dead seeing that movie.

Anyone else watching Project Runway All Stars tonight? I'm sad that the judges and host aren't the same, but I'll still be watching. I'm rooting for Mondo, Michael, and Austin.

I just recently heard about a new Birchbox type subscription service called My Glam. It's $10 a month and you get 4-5 full-sized products or deluxe-sized samples in a cute little bag. The bag they sent out last month looked really nice, so I tried to sign up, but they're all sold out :/ Maybe next month.

Can they please stop playing the "I'm in love with a McDonald's girl" commercial on TV? So annoying!

Before I wrote this post, I was making hot chocolate with the Keurig and I completely forgot to put a mug under the part where the liquid comes out. Dummy!

Anyone else notice that the Anthro catalog was bigger and more like a magazine this month? Is this a new thing for the new year?

I want these shoes. And these. Love this catalog photo of both pairs.

Tomorrow is Friday! Wahooo!

December Favorites

2012-01-03T21:15:00.001-05:00

It's time for the last "Favorites" post of 2011! Can't wait to see what new favorites come my way in 2012!

Michael Kors "Blair" Chronograph Watch in Rose Gold

Remember how my husband got me the Keurig for Christmas and how we ended up having to return it because I also got him one? Well we went out shopping that same week so that I could pick out a new gift and this is what I chose :) I've had my eye on it for some time now, but just didn't want to shell out the money for it. Well my husband finally convinced me to give in and treat myself and I'm so glad that I did! It's one of the most beautiful watches I've ever seen and I love the rose gold color. Highly recommend it if you're looking for a new watch or for something for the hubby to get you for your birthday/anniversary/other occasion.

Gap Always Skinny Jeans

I have Tara from Mix and Match Fashion to thank for helping me find my favorite pair of jeans. She always looks so cute in her Gap jeans, so I decided to give them a try and I love them! My normal size 6 felt a little too snug when I first tried them on, but the SA told me that they'd stretch about half a size after some wear and he was right. They're super comfortable, I love the dark wash, and the best part...I got them for under $40 (when they had they're 40% off sale last month)! I guess all hope isn't lost for you yet Gap!

Gingerbread Candle from Bath & Body Works

No candle out there can beat my beloved Leaves candles from Bath & Body Works, but this one sure does come close. It's a blend of spicy ginger, rich buttercream, and brown sugar topped with whipped vanilla frosting and it's currently on sale for $8 (normally $19.50). It's considered a holiday scent, but all the stores around me still have tons of them left, so you shouldn't have any problem finding one if you want one. It's also still available online.

Where's Waldo?

Did anyone else have these books when they were little? I remember I had the yellow one and it was always one of my favorite books. I always took it with me on long trips because it was a great time waster. Well I decided to get one for my husband for Christmas because he loves books where you have to find things or spot the differences and we've been addicted to it ever since. On each page, you have to find Waldo and 4 other people (1 dog), several objects, and then there's lists of things for you to find in the back of the book. I figured we'd get through the book pretty quickly, but it's actually kinda hard! I guess my eyes aren't as good as they used to be.

Garlic Parmesan Pretzel Crisps

These are so tasty! They cost about $2.50 at my grocery store and come in 3-4 different flavors. They look like pretzels, but don't taste like them at all and aren't as hard or crunchy. They're also really good when they're dipped in cheese or hummus.

Tiny Tower App

I saved the best favorite for last :) I am OBSESSED with this iPhone app! I found it the week before Christmas and have been playing it every day ever since. It's the first thing I check when I wake up in the morning and the last thing I do before bed. I promise, you will be addicted to this if you download it. So if you don't need a new addiction in your life, don't download it!

The concept is pretty simple. You start with a tower with one floor and you have to make money so that you can build more and more floors (businesses and residential floors) in your tower. There are businesses like "hat shop", "toy store", "theater", "cake studio", "diner", etc. and then all the residences look different and have different names. It's kinda fun waiting to see which floors you'll get next. You also have people who live in your tower and you give them jobs at the different businesses and they stock the stores with goods so that you can make money (random people use the elevator in your tower to go and shop at the different stores). There's a whole lot more to it, but I'll stop there. Ok, so now go download it! It's so fun and it's free!

Songs

Paradise by Coldplay

Without You by David Guetta ft. Usher

What were some of your favorite things during the month of December?

Personal Goals for 2012

2012-01-02T22:29:00.001-05:00

I've never been a big fan of resolutions, but this year, I have a handful of personal goals that I would really like to accomplish and I figured that I would be more likely to do so if I wrote them down for all to see. So here they are in no particular order...

1. Read More Books

Source: weheartit.com via Naomi on Pinterest

I love getting lost in a good book, but for some reason, reading books always got pushed down to the bottom of my priority list this past year. Then when I did make time for reading, I would read 50 pages and then not pick the book up again for months (still have some unfinished books from last year). Such a bad habit! Really want to work on this one because there are some great books out there that I really want to read (i.e. The Maze Runner series, The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo series, The Hunger Games series, Harry Potter books).

2. Get More Sleep

Source: 26.media.tumblr.com via Quimby on Pinterest

During the week, I usually go to bed at around 11:30pm and get up at 5:30am, which gets me about 6hrs of sleep. Now this might be enough sleep for some people, but for me, it's just not enough and my body has been telling me it's not enough for some time now. I usually end up feeling drained throughout the day and then as soon as I get home from work, I zonk out on the couch. I want to be able to instantly wake up in the morning and not have to press the snooze button 4-5 times. I want to feel my best physically and mentally throughout the day. I want to be able to get things done when I come home from work instead of taking a nap. So my goal is to get myself in bed by 9:30pm, maybe read a little, and then hit the sack.

3. Spend Less Time in Front of the Computer/TV/iPhone

Source: australia.edu via Richard on Pinterest

I think I read somewhere that people are supposed to spend 1-2hrs max in front of a screen during the day. For me, that's definitely not happening! When I wake up, the first thing I do is check my Tiny Tower on my iPhone. Then I watch the local news/check my email while I eat breakfast. Some days I probably spend a good 2hrs in front of a computer screen at work alone (because I have to, not because I choose to). Then at night, I watch probably 2hrs (sometimes more, sometimes less) of TV and I also write blog posts/read blogs/check email/surf the internet/etc. That all adds up to a whole lot more than 1-2hrs. This year, I really want to try and limit my screen time and spend more time with family/friends, more time outdoors, and more time doing other things that I enjoy that don't involve a screen.

4. Slow Down and Stress Less

Source: weheartit.com via Softness on Pinterest

Going back home to the Midwest always reminds me how different my life is now that I live in a big city. I'm always trying to schedule something. Always feeling rushed to get something done. Always stressing out or worrying about something. This year I want simple. I want to slow down. I want to take a breath. I want to stop and really enjoy the things in my life instead of always having to go, go, go.

5. Clean Up After Myself

Source: 9fengxing.info via Candace on Pinterest

Ok, so I'm nowhere near as bad as the person who lives in the picture above, but I am kind of a slob. I leave drink glasses out on the table for the day. I throw my clothes all over the couch when I can't decide what to wear in the morning and then I don't pick them up until the weekend. I never make the bed. I never want to take out the garbage or empty the dishwasher (my husband usually does it). I leave my mail and other random clutter all over our dinner table, which makes it unusable (We probably wouldn't eat there if it was clean though). Etc. Etc. Wow, that all sounds kinda bad when I read back over it. I promise it's not THAT bad. I'm determined to conquer this one though not only for me, but for my husband. I know that he's more than sick of dealing with all the things that I mentioned above, as well he should be.

So here's to reaching my goals in 2012! What are your goals for 2012?

Happy New Year!

2012-01-01T22:58:00.001-05:00

Dress: Anthropologie Lace & Light Dress

Tights: Hue

Shoes: Target

My New Year's Eve in Photos

Got all dolled up.

Found a cute guy to take me out to dinner.

Pigged out on lots of delicious food, but sadly, I couldn't really taste most of it because I'm still sick (I've had it before though, so I know it's delicious).

Drank myself silly while watching Kathy and Anderson on CNN.

And was in bed by 12:05am. Perfect Night :)

How did you spend your last night of 2011?

My Top 11 Outfits of 2011

2011-12-31T13:57:00.001-05:00

2011 was quite an exciting year for me. I moved into a new place. I celebrated my one year wedding anniversary. My husband and I went on our first real vacation since we've been together (not counting the honeymoon). I went to NYC and Seattle for the first time. I met Kelly Kapowski! I got a new fancy camera. I celebrated my one year blogiversary. I visited several Civil War battlefields. Hiking became a new hobby of mine. I got to go to a lot of fun fashion/Anthro events with blog friends. Etc. Etc.

Style-wise, a few exciting things happened this year (I got my first "big girl" bag and I wore jeans for the first time in years), but for the most part, I kinda felt like it was just an ehhhh year for my closet and I. I came to this realization as I was trying to pick out outfits for this post. When I first started looking back at blog posts, I honestly didn't think that I would be able to choose 5 favorite outfits, let alone 11. Most of the outfits were just average. Nothing really screamed "favorite".

Part of this is because I didn't post as many outfit photos the second half of the year as I did the first half. I'm sure I wore a few great outfits that just didn't get documented. The second half of the year I also just got fed up with my closet. At one point, I wanted to throw everything out the window and just start over fresh. I felt like I was wearing the same things over and over again and I was just getting bored with it all. I think that's why I've been so excited about jeans lately. They're something new and different for me and I can wear sweaters, boots, and fun fuzzy socks with them (all of which are new to my closet just in this last month).

Luckily, I did end up finding 11+ outfits that I loved to include in this post, but here's hoping that 2012 brings big changes to my personal style. I'm ready for it!

Honorable Mention

Happy New Year!

There's No Place Like Home for the Holidays

2011-12-31T00:03:00.000-05:00

Source: galleryone.com via Dorothy on Pinterest

Hey everyone! Sorry that I've been MIA for the past 10 days. I spent 7 days back home in the Midwest with my family and my husband's family for Christmas and then the last two days I've basically just been sleeping and drinking a lot of Robitussin (more on that later). I don't have an outfit to show today since I didn't take my camera home with me, so instead, I thought I'd share some random tidbits from my trip back home. Enjoy!

The day after I got back home, I could tell that I was starting to get sick :/ I had a bad cough and felt really congested in my chest. I was about 90% sure that it was bronchitis, since I just had it last year at this time and it turns out that I was right. It didn't get really bad until this past Wednesday, which of course is when I had to fly back to DC. So I was that annoying person on the plane who you want to punch in the face because they won't stop coughing. Luckily I'm off until Tuesday, so I've just been relaxing and getting lots of sleep. The one pro to being sick is that I get to take my favorite medicine, Robitussin! I swear I could down a bottle of that stuff in probably under a minute. It's so good!

I finally got to see some snow when I was back home! It was only about an inch and only lasted a few hours because the ground was so warm, but that's more than I've seen out here this year!

Every year, my mom has to give my step-sister and I a "little kid" toy in our stockings. Two years ago, she got us Zhu Zhu Pets off of Ebay for a ridiculously high price. Last year, she got us Squinkies and this year, she got us Hello Kitty dolls. I guess at least I can use her as a decoration at Christmastime. The other two toys haven't seen the light of day since I first got them.

She also got me a new tube of pepper spray (I had to give my other one to a police officer in NYC when we took the ferry over to see the Statue of Liberty) and a whistle. I'm ready to fight off the bad guys!

I look like a ghost in almost every picture that my family took of me this year because the foundation that I wear has SPF in it and no one in my family knows how to take pictures without the flash. Luckily I was able to find one decent one to show you guys.

My mom doesn't know that I have a blog, so it was funny to hear her try and give my husband directions on how to use her camera. "Just push the big button on top." "Make sure you hold the button down halfway to focus." "Let me show you how to look at the pictures after you've taken them." If only she knew :)

What's missing in this picture of my dog Roxy? Give yourself a gold star if you guessed her toy frog's left eye! She's such a beast!

Hope you all had a Happy Holidays and if I don't talk to you again before Sunday, have a Happy New Year!

I Love a Good Sale

2011-12-21T09:00:00.001-05:00

Cardigan: Anthropologie Outlined Celandine Cardi

Skirt: Anthropologie Field Skirt

Shoes: Urban Outfitters

Tights: Simply Vera Vera Wang Opaque Control-Top Tights

Bag: Anthropologie Bold Strokes Satchel

I picked this bag up last week when Anthropologie was having their 30% off sale sale (yes that's 2 sales). I also ordered the yellow version thinking that I might like it more, but that was an obvious no as soon as I opened the box that it came in. It was ridiculously bright and I didn't think that it would go well with very much in my closet.

I also picked up this cardigan during Anthro's 50% off sweaters sale. I was hoping to get the white version, but of course it sold out minutes before the sale kicked in at midnight. I knew that finding it in stores wasn't an option because I haven't seen it at any of mine for weeks, so I just went ahead and ordered the black version. I like it, but one problem I have with the cardigan itself is with the lining. It poofs out at the sides and makes me look like I have huge love handles. So I constantly have to pull the sides down to flatten them out. Anyone else have this issue?

Did any of you pick anything up at the sale today? I had a pair of Bookbinder Heels in my size in my cart this morning for $25 (yes, you read that right), but I decided to pass on them because I didn't want to pay for shipping. I could have added something else to my cart to get the free shpping, but I didn't want to deal with returning it. Probably a big mistake, but I do have the Flaxen Wedges which are pretty similar, so I think I'm ok with it. Hopefully one of you gave them a good home :)

December Birchbox

2011-12-20T18:55:00.000-05:00

I have to admit, I was a little disappointed with my Birchbox this month. I thought that they would go all out for the holidays/the last box of the year, but instead, they filled the box with products that were probably some of my least favorite of the year. The one thing that I did like about the box was the packaging. They included sparkly white tissue paper instead of the standard maroon color and then they also listed the products out on a nice holiday card that was covered in snowflakes.

Here's a look at what came in my box:

Harvey Prince Yogini- This scent is made up of sandalwood, grapefruit, and Egyptian myrrh. According to the Birchbox website, it's supposed to be light and clean and "counteract stress and keep us zen throughout the day". It did anything but that for me. It was one of those scents that makes you start coughing after you spray it on because it's so strong. I actually got a headache after I smelled it for the first time.

Jouer Moisturizing Lip Gloss in Birchbox Pink-This gloss looks like a bright hot pink color in the container, but luckily, it doesn't show up that color on the lips. It's more of a sheer pink when you first apply it, but you can build up the color. It's not sticky and I didn't detect any scent. I just didn't like the fact that the sample is so tiny! Also, very little product comes off on the brush. I had to stick the brush back into the container 5 times before my lips were coated with the gloss.

L'Oreal Professional Mythic Oil- This is supposed to give hair more shine and control any frizz that you may have. I do like trying out new hair products, so I was happy to see this in my box. Again, I just wish it was bigger. I'll probably only get 2-3 uses out of it with my long hair. Oh and the packaging...not a fan. It was difficult for me to open the container (I seriously had a hard time getting the cap off), get the oil out, and then close it without spilling any of the oil.

Befine Gentle Cleanser-I wasted about a days worth of product when I first opened this. I was expecting it to be a thicker consistency and it wasn't (it's a liquid), so when I opened it with the cap facing down, some of the product spilled out into the sink. I'll probably use this up, but won't ever buy a full size of it. It felt a little sticky and in general I just prefer cream cleansers.

ShowStoppers Designer Fashion Tape-These double sided tape strips are supposed to help hold up your dress. They're supposed to last for over eight hours and you can apply them to fabric or directly to your skin. I honestly can't think of the last time I had a problem with this, so I probably won't be using these.

EBOOST Orange Natural Energy Booster-I'll probably end up giving this to my husband. I'm not a fan of energy boosters or orange flavored drinks.

What did you get in your Birchbox this month? Were you as unimpressed as I was?

Never Say Never

2011-12-19T22:02:00.001-05:00

Sweater: J.Crew Honeycomb Cable Sweater (buy here)

Jeans: Gap Always Skinny Jeans (buy here)

Boots: Classic Tall Uggs in Chocolate (buy here)

Necklace: J.Crew

I never thought that I would be saying this, but I'm kinda obsessed with wearing jeans now. I picked this pair up over the weekend when Gap was having their 40% off sale and then I also bought a pair of J.Crew's Toothpick Jeans since they were 30% off. I couldn't even wait an entire day to wear this pair after I got them. As soon as I came home from the mall, I changed into them before I went out again to run a few errands and then I wore them again on Sunday. I was actually sad that I couldn't wear a pair to work today! Thank goodness we have casual Friday at my work :)

Funny how things change, isn't it?

All I Want for Christmas is a...Keurig??

2011-12-16T07:36:00.002-05:00

Skirt: Anthropologie Tria Sweater Skirt

Top: Anthropologie Daring Darts Blouse

Cardigan: J.Crew Jackie Cardigan

Belt: Forever 21

Tights: Anthropologie

Shoes: Target

*Photos taken pre-haircut

Last Saturday, my husband took off pretty early in the morning to go Christmas shopping for me. He said that he knew exactly what he was getting me and that he would be back with it in about an hour. Sure enough, an hour later he was back and forcing me to hide in the bathroom so that I couldn't see where he was going to hide my amazing gift.

Now one thing you should know about my husband is that he is usually pretty bad when it comes to gift giving. He doesn't pick up on the subtle hints that I give him throughout the year when we're out shopping and doesn't realize that when I "accidentally" leave a website up on the computer screen (say the product page for a certain Kate Spade wallet or MK watch) it means "Buy me this!".

Ok, so cut to Sunday afternoon. I grabbed my iPhone to look something up, but it was dead, so I grabbed his instead. Well silly him had forgotten to close Safari the last time he used it, so right there on the screen was the store locater page for Bed Bath & Beyond and the product page for the Keurig. Ooops! Probably wasn't supposed to see that!

Yes, my amazing gift was spoiled, but that wasn't the big issue. The problem was that I got him the Keurig for Christmas too!! He's been drinking a lot more coffee recently, so I thought that he would love one of these. Over the last few months, I've been trying to say things like "Hey, wouldn't you like to have one of these?" or "What do you think of Keurigs?" just to be sure I wasn't waisting my money. Well, he took that as me hinting to him that I wanted a Keurig!

Ok, I guess that makes sense, but there's one small detail my lovely husband forgot to think about before making his big purchase. I don't drink coffee!! Why would a non-coffee drinker want a Keurig as her main gift (I know you can also buy hot chocolate and apple cider cups for it, but I told him I had heard from several people that the apple cider didn't taste the best and I really only drink hot chocolate every once in awhile during the winter months)? It's just funny to me that I can basically show him exactly what I want and then he goes off in the complete opposite/wrong direction. Men really confuse me sometimes!

Our plan for this weekend is to take back the Keurig that he got for me and then look for something else for him to get me. Hopefully there won't be anymore confusion since I'll be right there with him :)

How is your husband with gift giving? Does he pick up on your hints throughout the year or do you have to buy things for yourself and then give them to him to give to you? Have you and your husband ever gotten each other the same gift before?

Anthropologie Fitting Room Reviews: Mystery Maeve Skirt, Nolana Skirt, and Raspberry Jacquard Dress

2011-12-15T08:53:00.001-05:00

I love finding fitting room pictures on my phone from weeks ago that I had completely forgot even existed. Especially on a day when I had nothing else to share with you guys :)

Mystery Skirt by Maeve-$98

Size 6

This is one of the first skirts I've been excited about at Anthropologie in quite some time now. Their selection just hasn't been wowing me lately. It's also nice to see a skirt that's under $100. Most seem to be a lot more these days. The shell of this skirt is 70% wool and the lining is 100% cotton, so it wasn't the least bit itchy. The lining is sewn into the skirt, it's not a separate piece. The skirt is black (or maybe a dark navy) and blue with a white checkered pattern (I'm sure there's some official name for that), has pockets, a back zip, and falls right above the knee. My true size 6 fit well, so I'd say this runs TTS. As you can see from the second picture though, there's one big problem with this skirt. It makes me look like I have a bubble butt! Still trying to decide if this is a deal breaker for me. Maybe if I wear a cardigan with it it won't be as noticeable?

Nolana Skirt by Moulinette Soeurs-$158

Size 6

This skirt was a big disappointment for me. It looked amazing at first glance, but then I started to discover all of it's flaws once I got it in the fitting room. For starters, while the skirt is lined, the lining is very sheer. If you got close enough, you could definitely see through it. I wouldn't feel comfortable wearing this out without a slip underneath. I also didn't like how the lining at the top of the skirt was so noticeable. It looks like that's my white shirt showing through, but it's not, it's the lining. My true size 6 was way too big at the waist, so I'd recommend going down a size. The skirt is pretty heavy, but you can obviously tell that it's well made. It has a side zip and no pockets. I did like the cranberry color, but that's about the only positive there was for me. Pass!

Raspberry Jacquard Dress by Maple-$168

Size 4

This dress was another big disappointment for me. I honestly felt like I was wearing a nightgown when I had it on. It just sort of hung there on my body and there wasn't any definition at my waist. My chest also looked more flat than it normally does in this dress. My normal size 4 was the best fit for me, so I'd say it runs TTS. The bottom of the dress fell half an inch to an inch above my knees, so I wouldn't have any problems wearing this to work. It has a hook and eye closure at the neck and there is ruching in the back at the waist. There isn't a lining and there aren't any pockets. On a more positive note, the raspberry color is gorgeous IRL and I liked the little dots that are all over the dress. There is a triangle shaped cut-out on the back of the dress, but if I remember correctly, you can still get away with wearing a normal bra. As I'm sure you could have guessed, this one is a pass for me.

Holiday Gift Guide: Gifts Under $50

2011-12-13T16:35:00.001-05:00

I always feel like I have to insert a catchy intro here, but honestly, tonight I got nothin. So just imagine that I said something amazing and enjoy the gift guide!

Gifts Under $50 by youmeandanthropologie featuring a 14k white gold necklace

1. Sephora Favorites: Lashstash ($45)-I got this set for Christmas last year and I have to say it was probably one of my favorite gifts. I loved that I was able to try out a lot of different high-end mascaras without going broke!

2. Custom Kindle Book Jacket by Caseable ($44.90)-Have a friend who has always wanted her dog's face plastered all over her iPad? Well now she can have that with the help of this site. They make custom laptop, iPad, and Kindle cases or you can just buy one of their pre-made cases.

3. Original Babycakes Cupcake Maker ($29.99) and Babycakes Cookbook ($15.99)-Not one, but two gifts for under $50! If your friend isn't a fan of cupcakes, don't worry. The website also sells pie, donut, cake pop, waffle, and whoopie pie makers.

4. The North Face Etip Gloves ($40)-Perfect for those big babies out there like me who hate having to take their gloves off to use their iPhone.

5. Anthropologie Cuisine Couture Apron ($32)-I'm no Martha Stewart, but I'd still love to receive this or any of Anthro's aprons as a gift. I'm sure I could rock it while I made PB&J and grilled cheese sandwiches :)

6. Bushnell PowerView 10x50 Wide Angle Binocular ($44.51)-No, these aren't for that friend you have who likes to spy on her neighbors. I was thinking more for the friend who enjoys hiking, the bird watching grandmother, or the sister with a really great view from her apartment.

7. Urban Decay Naked Palette ($48)-You really can't go wrong with this palette, unless of course you're buying it for a woman who never wears eyeshadow. Then I guess it might be a mistake. I think that most women wear neutral eyeshadows on a daily basis and this palette has plenty of them to choose from.

8. Sterling Silver "Carrie" Style Name Necklace ($33.95)-A nice gift for your younger sister, niece, or cousin.

9. Harry Potter Paperback Box Set ($43.46)-Perfect for those people who love the movies, but have yet to read the books.

It's No Use Crying Over Spilled Nail Polish

2011-12-12T19:35:00.001-05:00

Cardigan: Anthropologie Kites and Constellations Cardigan (buy here)

Skirt: J.Crew Flair Skirt in Double-Serge Wool (buy here)

Belt: Forever 21

Tights: Simply Vera Vera Wang Opaque Control-Top Tights (buy here)

Boots: Steve Madden (buy here)

If you follow me on Twitter, then you know that my brand new boots and I had a little bit of an accident on Saturday night. When I was in ULTA, I accidentally dropped a set of three nail polishes on the ground and the gold glitter polish in the set broke open and splattered all over my boots. It was like one of those slow motion moments in the movies. I screamed "Noooooooo" and reached my hand out to catch them, but I just wasn't fast enough :/

After it happened, I just stood there in complete shock for a few seconds. How could this be happening? I had only worn the boots for a total of 4hrs since I got them! Then I went into action mode. I ran over to the tissues and started trying to wipe the polish off the boots. Some of it came off, but quite a bit of it didn't because the polish was already starting to dry. My husband, trying to be helpful, grabbed a random bottle of liquid at those stations where you can try on makeup and told me to spray that on my boots. Um, no? Then some woman came over to me and told me to go home and put either vaseline or non-acetone nail polish remover on them. I passed on her suggestion too. I'm no boot expert, but that just didn't sound right to me.

After that, I just went home and sulked. I know they're just boots and it could have been a lot worse (there were red and pink polishes in that set too), but it was my first day wearing them! My husband told me to rock the splattered glitter nail polish look and to try and make it the next big trend in 2012. Think it would catch on?

Do any of you have any tips on how to get the nail polish off my boots? Will it eventually come off or is it stuck on them forever? Should I attempt to clean them myself or take them to a professional?

Holiday Gift Guide: Gifts Under $30

2011-12-10T22:52:00.001-05:00

My Holiday Gift Guide series continues tonight with gifts under $30. Enjoy!

Gifts Under $30 by youmeandanthropologie featuring j crew jewelry

Georgetown Cupcake Christmas Collection ($29.00)-I can't think of a better gift for someone with a sweet tooth. These cupcakes are delicious and so beautifully decorated that the person who you're giving them to might not want to eat them! You can either customize your own box or pick one of the pre-packed assortments that they have like this one. If you don't live in the DC area, you can just go pick something up at your local cupcake shop or make your own. That could be fun!

Birchbox 3 Month Subscription ($30.00)-You guys probably could have guessed that this would be on one of my gift guides. I've been getting Birchbox for almost a year now and have no plans to cancel my subscription any time soon. For those of you who aren't familiar with Birchbox, you receive 4-5 beauty samples from luxury brands each month in the mail. So the person you buy this for would get a box of samples every month for 3 months.

J.Crew Golden Stripe Bracelet in Mint ($29.50)-This bracelet caught my eye the other day when I was waiting in line to make a return. I almost bought it for myself, but decided to wait since Christmas is just around the corner. My store only had the mint color, but online it's also available in navy, yellow, and red.

Philosophy The More The Merrier Set ($20.00)-This set comes with four bottles of the shampoo/bubble bath/shower gel in different holiday scents and then it also comes with a marshmallow scented lip gloss. I will warn you that their glosses are pretty sticky. So if the person who you're buying for doesn't like sticky glosses, you might want to consider getting her a different set (they have plenty of different sets available).

Viktor & Rolf Flowerbomb Travel Duo ($29.00)-This perfume has notes of sambac jasmine, centifolia rose, cattleya orchid, ballerina freesia, and patchouli. I'm not a big fan of floral scents, but I really like this one.

Fresh Mini Sugar Kissing Trio ($28.00)-I've never tried any of these lip treatments, but I have swatched them on my hand and I can tell you that they glided on like butter and all had decent pigmentation. I may or may not have bought this set the other day to give to my husband to put in my stocking :) I pretty much had to because he never would have found it in Sephora on his own!

Lauren Conrad Style Book ($12.66)-This book has lots of great tips on beauty, fashion, and lifestyle and it also has beautiful pictures throughout all the different chapters. Makes for a great coffee table book.

David & Goliath Tees ($24.00)-Love the designs and funny sayings on these tees!

L.L.Bean Ice Cream Ball ($26.95)-Wouldn't one of these be nice for those nights when you're craving ice cream, but are too lazy to drive to the store and get it?

Rubik's Cube Notepad ($12.99)-Maybe it's just me, but I think this is a really cute stocking stuffer idea. Who wouldn't want this sitting on their desk at work? If nothing else, it would probably be a good conversation starter.

Apples to Apples ($18.00)-I don't know of anyone who doesn't like this game. It's fun to play in a group of about 4-6 people and is even more fun if you have a couple drinks in you. I promise it will have your group laughing all night long!

Anthropologie Fitting Room Reviews: Sweater and Outerwear Palooza!

2011-12-08T21:56:00.000-05:00

Thought you guys might like to see some sweater/outerwear reviews before the 50% off sale starts at Anthropologie tomorrow :) You can visit Effortless Anthropologie for more details on that. Onto the reviews!

Preppy Pleats Pullover by Wendi Reed-$88

Size Small

I really wanted to like this sweater, especially since it's going to be about $45 tomorrow, but it just didn't happen. The size small looked very boxy on me and if I raised my arms up even a little, you could see my stomach. I really don't think sizing up would have helped fix the length issue either. My skin is very sensitive when it comes to itchy fabrics and while the itchiness of this sweater was more on the mild side, it still bothered me. Oh and another interesting thing about this sweater is that what is supposed to be the back of the sweater (based on the pictures on the Anthro website) is really the front. So there's a seam that runs right down the front of the sweater (from top to bottom). It didn't bother me too much, but it may be an eye sore for some of you. Sadly a pass for me.

Gradated Stripes Pullover by Sparrow-$88

Size Small-First two pictures

Size Medium-Last picture

I'm usually not a fan of horizontal stripes, but I decided to try this sweater on anyway because I liked the bright colors and the button detail on the shoulders. Surprisingly, I didn't find that the stripes made me look any bigger. I initially grabbed this sweater in a size small, which is what I'm wearing in the first two pictures. The arms were snug, but not too tight. My main issue was with the length. Again, when I raised my arms even a little, you could see my stomach and I felt like I was constantly having to pull the sweater down when I moved around. I tried on the medium after that and as you can see in the last picture, it really wasn't too different from the small. I had more room in the arms and in the chest/waist, but it was still too short. The fabric wasn't super itchy, but if you have sensitive skin like me, you won't be 100% comfortable in this. Another pass.

Decisively Textured Pullover by Moth-$78

Size Medium

Forgive my Cousin Itt/Girl from The Ring look in these pictures. I had to pull my hair down so that you couldn't see my bra showing through. You'll definitely need a tank underneath this one! I brought a small and a medium back to the fitting room with me and it was obvious just by looking at the small that it wasn't going to work. The medium fit nicely everywhere, but like the others, was on the shorter side. It's definitely my favorite of the three sweaters I've tried on so far though. I love the navy and green color combination and the wider stripes. The fabric did have some itch to it, but it wasn't anything that would probably bother most of you. I'm still on the fence about this one. I'll probably throw it in my online cart tomorrow and then make a final decision once it gets here.

Outlined Celandine Cardi by Tabitha-$148

Size Small

This cardigan is right up my alley. It's got a unique design on the front and gives off that "cutesy" vibe. I really wanted to try on the white version, but it was sold out at my store. I honestly don't think I've seen it there since like September. The size small fit me perfectly. None of the buttons pulled when they were all buttoned up and I had plenty of room in the arms. This cardigan is on the shorter side, but I'm ok with that because I'll only be wearing it with skirts and dresses. Oh and the best thing about it...it doesn't itch! I'll probably pick this color up at my store tomorrow and then order the white one online. Then I'll make a final decision after I've tried them both on with several different outfits. Highly recommend!

Bow Topped Coat by Tabitha-$178

Size Small

Last but certainly not least, we have this cute little coat. My eye was immediately drawn to it because of the adorable bows on the pockets. I really wanted to try on the pink version, but of course, my store only had ivory and turquoise. I grabbed the turquoise because a white coat on a pale girl (at least this pale girl) is just no good. The color is definitely more blue than green IRL. As I mentioned earlier, the coat has pockets, but they really aren't functional. They are placed too high up and it just looked awkward when I put my hands in them. As you can see in the pictures, the sleeves are made up of two different layers. One shorter and one longer. The inside layer is the same material as the material around the neck. The coat felt very warm and cozy and wasn't itchy at all. Now that I think about it though, the coat never really touched my body. Only a little at the neck and then my hands. I'd probably only wear this with long sleeves/layers, so I guess it really doesn't matter if it's itchy. The size small fit me pretty well. The sleeves weren't too long/short and there was no pulling at the buttons. If anything, I had extra room in the chest. My only issue was that the bottom of the coat flared out a little instead of hugging the body. It kinda made my hips look wider than they really are. I don't think it's a deal breaker for me though. I have this coat on hold too and am going back to my store tomorrow to pick it up. I'm also going to order the pink one online tomorrow just so that I can see if I like it any better than I do the turquoise one.

What are you planning on picking up at Anthro tomorrow?

Holiday Gift Guide: 10 Gifts Under $10

2011-12-07T09:00:00.002-05:00

I decided to jump on the "Holiday Gift Guide" bandwagon this year and I'm starting it off today with "10 Gifts Under $10". These gifts would make great stocking stuffers (some might not fit, but you can just set them next to the stocking) or you could use them for Secret Santa at the office. They also might be appropriate for that co-worker who you're friends with, but not the best of friends with.

I'll be back later this week with gifts under $25, gifts under $50, and gifts for the men in your lives. Let me know in the comments if you have any other great gift ideas for under $10!

10 Gifts Under $10 by youmeandanthropologie on polyvore.com

1. LUSH Secret Santa Box ($9.95)-This little box comes with a soap and a bath bomb inside. It would be a great gift for your friend who is a bath lover or for someone who has heard of LUSH, but has never used their products before.

2. Swiss Miss Hot Cocoa Mix Set of 5 ($8.49 on sale)-This set comes with five different cocoa mixes (Dark Chocolate Sensation, Mint Chocolate, Caramel Cream, Milk Chocolate, and French Vanilla) and each box has four packets of cocoa inside. It's on sale at Target this week for $8.49 (it's normally $9.99). I know this because I just picked one up for myself the other day :) The box is pretty big, so you won't be able to fit it in a stocking, but the packaging is super cute, so you wouldn't necessarily have to worry about wrapping it.

3. Magic 8 Ball from Toys "R" Us ($10.99)-Did you guys have one of these when you were growing up? I never did, but I always really wanted one. I think that this would be a great inexpensive gift for people of all ages. They always seem to get at least a few laughs out of everyone who uses them.

4. Philosophy Purity Made Simple Ornament ($10.00)-I use this cleanser daily and I know at least five other people who also love it and use it on a daily basis. It's another one of those gifts that already comes in really cute packaging, so you could just give it to the person as is.

5. Starbucks Gift Card ($10.00)-If all else fails, get the person a gift card, right? That way there's really no pressure on you and you know the person will get something that he/she likes. If the person who you're buying for doesn't drink coffee, then I'd go for an iTunes gift card. I don't know anyone who couldn't use one of those nowadays.

6. The Hunger Games ($9.46)-Love this book and I can't say that I've ever heard/seen anyone give it a bad review. If you get this for your mom/sister/friend now, then she'll have plenty of time to finish the series before the movie comes out in March.

7. Anthropologie Homegrown Monogram Mug ($8.00)-I love the idea of buying one of these with the person's initial on it and then filling it with hot chocolate, tea, or her favorite candy.

8. EOS Lip Balm Set ($7.17)-You guys know that I really like these lip balms. They do a decent job at moisturizing my lips and the packaging is unlike anything I've ever seen before. These are normally around $3.50 each, so this set is a pretty good deal. You can also get this set at ULTA for $7.99.

9. The Muppets Mini Nail Lacquers by OPI ($10.50)-What girl wouldn't love to get four new nail polishes all at once? This set isn't holiday themed, but I chose it because I like the colors better than I do the OPI holiday minis that are out now. You probably won't be able to find this set in stores anymore because it was so popular, but I know that it's still available at several places online. If you aren't a big OPI fan, check out the holiday sets that China Glaze and Orly have out. They're $10 or less and come with at least 2 full size bottles of polish.

10. Slatkin & Co. Candle at Bath & Body Works ($10.00 on sale)-These candles are normally $20 each, but they always seem to be having 2 for $20 sales. You could give one to your friend and keep one for yourself or just give both away. They have several great holiday/winter themed scents out right now. My favorites are Tis the Season, Gingerbread, and Dark Chocolate Mint. If you have extra money to spend, you could also get a metal candle sleeve to put the candle in. They come in lots of different cute designs.

It's Beginning to Look A Lot Like Christmas

2011-12-06T09:00:00.000-05:00

Tee: LOFT

Cardigan: J.Crew Outlet

Skirt: Anthropologie Circle the Globe Skirt

Shoes: Target

Belt: Anthropologie Gift Bow Belt

With Christmas right around the corner, I thought it would be fun to come up with some Christmas-y themed questions to answer. Feel free to copy the questions and answer them yourselves or just pick a few to answer in the comments :)

What's your favorite Christmas cartoon?

Frosty the Snowman. The Grinch is a close second though.

What's your favorite Christmas movie?

My favorites are Christmas Vacation, A Christmas Story, Jingle All the Way, Home Alone 2, The Nightmare Before Christmas, and Love Actually.

What's your favorite Christmas song?

Love "O Holy Night". It's probably my favorite Christmas song out of all of them. I also like "Wonderful Christmastime" by Paul McCartney and "Merry Christmas, Happy Holidays" by N'Sync.

Where do you spend Christmas?

I always go back to my hometown to visit my family at Christmas. This year though I think I might be spending Christmas Day with my husband's family. He only lives a couple hours away from me, so I'll still be able to see my family on Christmas Eve and the day after Christmas.

Do you open presents on Christmas Eve or Christmas Day?

We open one present on Christmas Eve and then the rest of them on Christmas morning. We usually try to go around and have everyone open one present at a time, but that never ends up working. Us "kids" get impatient and we just start ripping boxes open!

Do you have stockings?

Stockings are a huge deal at my house. Everyone has one. Even the pets and spouses/significant others. They're usually just full of candy/small gifts/gift cards, but for some reason, it's almost more fun opening them than it is the presents.

Which reindeer is your favorite?

Dancer and Vixen are my favorites.

How are you at wrapping presents?

I'm decent, but definitely could never work at one of those stands in the mall where they wrap gifts for free. I usually try and get my mom to wrap all of my gifts because she's really good at it :)

Do you go out shopping the day after Christmas?

My family lives in a small town in the Midwest, so sadly, there's really no place to go shopping other than Target :/ I do usually go there though to get the good candy deals.

Do you buy a Christmas dress/outfit every year?

Growing up, I never wore skirts or dresses because I was a big tomboy. I would just wear my one pair of nice black pants with a nice top to church on Christmas Eve. I've actually never bought a Christmas dress/outfit for myself since I moved out on my own. Sadly, I never get to go to any fancy holiday parties. I could wear one to church on Christmas Eve, but I'm afraid to fly with my nicer clothes. Who knows where they'll end up!

Hot Chocolate, Apple Cider, or Egg Nog?

Hot chocolate. I've never tried Egg Nog, but really have no desire to.

Gingerbread man or frosted sugar cookie?

I like both, but I'd go for the frosted sugar cookie first just because I love all the fun shapes and the colorful icing.

Real tree or fake tree?

Growing up, we always had a fake tree because we had cats who would make a mess in the water and get pine needles everywhere. My husband and I have a small fake tree now and I'm guessing we'll probably always have a fake tree. They're not messy, cheaper in the long run, and I personally think they look better.

Put up your own lights or drive around and look at other people's lights?

Definitely drive around and look at other people's lights. That's probably one of my favorite things to do this time of year. I love seeing what people come up with and listening to Christmas music for hours.

Happy Holidays!

The Dreaded Haircut

2011-12-05T09:30:00.003-05:00

Skirt: J.Crew

Top: American Eagle

Cardigan: J.Crew

Shoes: Target

Last week, I had to go and do something that, for me, ranks right up there with doing your taxes, going to the dentist, and going to the doctor for that oh so special appointment every year. I had to get a haircut. Most of you probably can't even tell, especially since I have my hair curled in this picture, but I promise, I did. Why do I hate getting my hair cut so much you ask? Well, let me tell you...

When I was 8, my mom and my hair stylist told me that I would look great with a perm. One with tight curls all right up around my head. So I did it and it turned out horrible! I looked like a Chia Pet. I remember going to school the next day with my coat up over my head so that no one could see and then everyone laughing at me when I had to take it off :/ I swear, that perm scarred me for life!
It costs a LOT of money. The guy I go to charges $75 just for a cut and that doesn't include tip. I can't even imagine what it would cost if I colored my hair. I keep going to him because he's good and I've had a few bad experiences at places like Great Cuts/Hair Cuttery in the past. This is why I only get my hair cut once, maybe twice a year (I know, worst thing ever). Who wants to pay $75+ just to get an inch or less of hair cut off every 8 weeks? Not me!
I really don't like having to put my head back in the sink when he washes my hair. It hurts my neck and I usually end up getting water in my ears (I have issues with my ears, but that's a whole other story).
I never know how to describe what I want done and I can never find a good picture showing the haircut that I want. So I just babble something to him that sort of makes sense and then I always end up leaving with basically the same look that I had before and I'm never 100% satisfied. I think that's more my fault than his though. I need to be more clear and decisive.
I'm always afraid that my guy is going to go crazy on me and cut off all my hair! Ok, so maybe that's a little extreme, but I am always afraid that he's going to cut off more than I want.
Going along with that last one...I know it's just hair and it grows back, but it takes FOREVER to grow back. So if something goes wrong, I'm stuck with it for a good long while. It's not like I can hide a bad cut either. Hair is one of the first things people see when they talk to you. It's like my security blanket and some days, I like being able to hide behind it. Can't do that if it's messed up!
I don't like having little hairs on my neck when I'm done. They itch!
I always realize how much better my hair would look if I had a professional at my house to do it every morning (or if I had 5 arms and eyes in the back of my head).

I guess this trip really wasn't THAT bad. I just had him cut 2 inches off the ends and then he gave me layers all over. At first I thought he went a little crazy with the layers and made my hair too thin, but after I went home and styled it myself, I actually really liked it. My hair feels so much lighter now and it doesn't take as long for me to blow dry/curl it.

I'm just so glad that it's over until next year!

Do you enjoy going to get your hair cut? How often do you go to the salon? What's been your worst haircut experience?

Santa, Can You Hear Me?

2011-12-04T11:20:00.001-05:00

Christmas Wishlist by youmeandanthropologie featuring wedge boots

1. Anthropologie Polka Rounds Clutch-I hope that Santa has some connections at Anthropologie because this is sold out online and there aren't many left at the stores near me :/

2. Steve Madden Intyce Boots in Cognac-I'm headed to the mall today to try these on so that I can let Santa know what size I wear.

3. Photoshop CS5-I feel like I'm the only blogger out there who doesn't have this yet. I'm still using iPhoto to edit all my photos, but I'm more than ready to move on to bigger and better things. Santa, I promise I'll make my list really short next year if you get me this this year!

4. Canon Zoom Lens-I have no clue which zoom lens I want, I just know that I really want one because the kit lens that came with my camera just isn't getting the job done. Any recommendations for a good one that Santa can afford?

5. Elle & Blair Zebra Capri Blue iPhone Case-I'm normally not drawn to "blinged out" iPhone cases, but I love the zebra design and color of this one. I just wish it wasn't so darn expensive! I guess that's Santa's problem now though, not mine :)

6. Urban Decay Naked2 Palette-I use at least one of the shadows in my original Naked Palette every single day, so I'm sure I'd get a lot of use out of this palette too. A single shadow from Urban Decay normally costs $17 and in this palette, you get 12 full size shadows plus a gloss and a brush for $50. So it's a really great deal.

7. The Maze Runner by James Dashner-I've heard that if you like The Hunger Games trilogy then you'll love this trilogy too. Have any of you read it? Did you like it? I'm thinking Santa may have already picked this one up for me :)

What's at the top of your Christmas list this year?

Shabby Apple Winner

2011-12-03T21:37:00.000-05:00

{via}

Thanks to everyone who entered my Shabby Apple Giveaway! The winner of the Francine Pencil Skirt is.....

Keri Flowers!

Congrats Keri! I hope you love your new skirt! I'll be sending you an email shortly to get your shipping information and skirt size.

Hope the rest of you are all having a great weekend!

When Pigs Fly

2011-11-30T22:02:00.000-05:00

Jeans: LOFT (buy here)

Top: American Eagle (buy here)

Cardigan: Target (buy here)

Shoes: Target (buy here)

Pigs must be out there flying around somewhere because I'm wearing jeans! Bet you guys never thought this day would come, huh? For some reason, I was just in the mood to try on jeans last week. I'm sure the fact that all the stores were having huge sales had something to do with it. I also finally realized that sometimes it's just not practical to wear a skirt or a dress. Like when you're going on a segway tour around the city in the fall or when you're going to visit an attraction that's created entirely of ice (both of these are on my to do list). I can only imagine how cold I would be zooming around on a segway in tights in 40-50 degree temperatures!

I ended up getting my jeans at LOFT when they were having 40% off your entire purchase. I wanted to buy their Modern Skinny Jeans, but they were completely sold out at 3 different stores in my area. I ended up going with a pair of the Modern Straight. I'm still not 100% sure that they fit me perfectly though, especially after looking at these pictures. Are they supposed to be loose like that from the knee down? Do they look too long for me? Are you supposed to roll the bottoms up like I did in the last picture? Do they look ridiculous with heels? I honestly have no clue because I never wear the things!

I did end up finding a pair of the Modern Skinny Jeans in my size when I went back to LOFT over the weekend. Now I just need to find a good pair of boots to wear with them. I currently only own one pair of boots from Target and I really don't even like them. So please send links to your favorite boots my way!

Oh and guess what came in the mail today? My "big girl" bag! The strap is definitely way too short for me to wear it as a cross-body bag, but I still love it :)

November Favorites

2011-11-28T22:58:00.001-05:00

I've got lots of really good favorites this month (at least I think so), so let's jump right in!

Champagne and Apple Cider Drink {via}

A few weeks ago, one of my co-workers had a few of us over to her house for drinks and snacks and she served us a drink that I've never had or even heard of before. It was a mixture of champagne and apple cider (half and half) and it was really good! So good that I went out and bought champagne and apple cider at the grocery store the very next day so that I could make my own drinks.

J.Crew Flair Skirt in Double-Serge Wool

Last month, I bought a skirt very similar to this one at Banana Republic, but I ended up returning it because it was just too long for me. This one from J.Crew is the perfect length and I got a great deal on it in-store last week. I ordered the red version earlier today since J.Crew is doing 25% off and free shipping and am half tempted to go back and order the green one too. I think I'll wait though to see if it goes down in price over the next few weeks.

Mix No. 6 Barbie Glitter Pump from DSW

I almost bought these pumps at DSW last month, but passed because I didn't know if they were work appropriate. Well they were still there when I stopped by DSW a few weeks ago and I just couldn't say no again. I love the sparkle and the shorter heel and I know they'll go with a lot in my wardrobe. I think I should be able to get away with wearing these on casual Fridays at work and then hopefully I can find a way to sneak a few more wears in throughout the year :)

Hot Tools 1 Inch Gold Curling Iron

I'm still loving my new curling iron that I got at the beginning of the month. It heats up quick and gives me amazing curls that last all day long. I think it's 20% off online at ULTA right now, so if you're in the market for a new curling iron, you should definitely go check it out!

Sweet Lips Lip Scrub from LUSH

This lip scrub smells amazing! Just like chocolate! I have really dry lips, so I use it probably 3-4 times a week. It makes my lips really soft and smooth and makes applying lipstick so much easier. Supposedly you can lick this right off of your lips when you're done applying it, but I just rinse it off with water because who wants to eat dead lip skin (I'm sure I do anyway, but not like that!)?

Cinders Bath Bomb from LUSH

Would you believe that this is the first bath product that I've ever purchased at LUSH? It just seems like they charge a lot of money for things that you'll only use once or twice. I couldn't pass this up though after I got a whiff of it in the store. I'm not sure what it's supposed to smell like, but to me, it smells like a combination of apple cider and cinnamon. The perfect fall scent!

Revlon Colorburst Lip Butters

I'm not going to go into too much detail about these here because I plan on doing a more thorough review of them in the coming weeks, but I will say that they are pretty amazing. They're like a lipstick, lip gloss, and lip butter all in one and I think there are around 20 different shades available, so there should be at least one perfect color out there for everyone. These are BOGO 50% off this week at CVS if you're interested in trying them out :)

Vanilla Bean Noel from Bath & Body Works

Is it just me or has this scent changed for the better since last year? I swear, I used to hate this scent and now I can't get enough of it! On Black Friday, I bought a shower gel, a candle, a hand soap, and a hand sanitizer in this scent. Crazy!

Songs

Rihanna-We Found Love

Kelly Clarkson-Mr. Know It All

T-Pain featuring Wiz Khalifa & Lily Allen-5 O'Clock

What were some of your favorite things during the month of November?

Christmas Stocking List

2011-11-27T02:29:00.000-05:00

{via}

Earlier today (yesterday, whatever), Rebecca put up a blog post called "My Christmas Stocking List". She basically just posted a list of fun things that she wants to do and accomplish between now and Christmas. I've never heard of making a list like this before, but I really love the idea! Like Rebecca, I often have a long list of things (in my head) that I want to do during the holiday season, but for one reason or another, I never get around to doing most of them. So my hope is that by making an actual list, I'll actually get them all done this year (I love checking things off of lists).

My Christmas Stocking List

Visit ZooLights

See The Nutcracker

Build a gingerbread house

Decorate Christmas cookies

Go ice skating at an outdoor rink

Visit the National Christmas Tree

Go to a cookie exchange/swap party

Go to ICE! at Gaylord National Resort

Drive around and look at Christmas lights

Watch Christmas Vacation, Jingle All the Way, and A Christmas Story

What's on your Christmas Stocking List this year?

Big Girl Bag

2011-11-25T11:10:00.001-05:00

Happy Black Friday everyone! Hope you're out getting some good deals! We went to Target last night at 10:30 and were about 40 people back from the front of the line. A lot closer than I thought we'd be. We got the Dyson vacuum that we wanted and I got the New Moon, Eclipse, and Time Traveler's Wife DVD's. My mom was able to get me the Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows part 2 Blue-ray, so I ended up getting everything on my list. Yay!

Then when we came home, I saw a new email in my inbox from Bloomingdale's. It said that if you shopped before 4am, you could take $25 off any $200 purchase online and then 20% off any purchase of $150 or more. So I decided splurge and buy the "big girl" bag I've had my eye on for quite a while now.

MARC BY MARC Jacobs Classic Q Hillier Hobo

I think the most I've ever spent on a purse (or someone else has spent on a purse for me) is like $60-$70, so this was a big purchase for me. I think I'm still a little in shock that I just spent that much on a purse, but I'm sure I'll get over it when it gets here. I really wanted the fuchsia colored one that was out last year (I think), but of course it's gone now. So I settled for the black one. Do any of you have this bag? What do you think of it?

Of course I was up again at 6am to check out the Anthro sale online, but I didn't end up buying anything. I figured the purse was enough for awhile. Plus, there wasn't really anything on sale that I had to have anyway.

Now I'm just watching TV in my pj's and eating leftovers. The perfect lazy day :)

What are your plans for the rest of the day? Are you shopping online or braving the crowds? What amazing deals have you found? Are you planning on doing more damage on Cyber Monday? Let us know!

Happy Turkey Day!

2011-11-24T19:07:00.000-05:00

Source: radiatortunesblog.blogspot.com via Nicole on Pinterest

Happy Thanksgiving everyone! Hope you've all had a great day full of good family, good friends, good food, good fun, and good football (if that's your thing...it's not mine). We were supposed to have a Thanksgiving dinner tonight, but at 11am, my husband decided that he wanted his turkey ASAP, so we immediately started cooking and ate at around 2pm instead. Here's what our meal looked like minus the cranberry sauce and the apple pie. There just wasn't enough room on my plate!

After we ate, we watched some James Bond (I watch the marathons at Thanksgiving and Christmas every year) and Willy Wonka & The Chocolate Factory and now I'm getting ready to take a power nap before we head out to Target and Best Buy at midnight. I'm hoping to get the New Moon, Eclipse, Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows (part 2), and Time Traveler's Wife DVD's and a Dyson vacuum. Then we're coming home and staying away from the stores for the rest of the day. I just don't feel like dealing with all the craziness this year. If there's something I want, I'll just order it online.

Enjoy the rest of your Thanksgiving and if you're braving the crowds tomorrow, good luck!

Product Review: Benefit's They're Real! Mascara

2011-11-22T22:50:00.001-05:00

Get it here

Lots of you said that you liked beauty product reviews on the poll that I recently gave, so I thought that I would review one of my new (ish) favorite products, Benefit's They're Real! Mascara.

Packaging

The cap is a dark charcoal gray color and the actual tube is a dark gray color mixed with a hint of purple. Both are very shiny and very sleek looking. The words on the tube are both orange and black and a mixture of cursive and print. I actually really like the packaging. I like the color combination that they chose and it looks like it came from a high end store rather than a drugstore. Which it better since I paid $22 for it!

Price

This mascara costs $22 at Sephora and ULTA. I got it back in October when Sephora was having their 20% off sale. I honestly don't think I'll keep spending $22 on this every 2-3 months. That's just too much when I can get something that's almost just as good for only $7 at the drugstore. I could see buying this for myself maybe twice a year or just asking for it at Christmas or for my birthday.

What the Box Says

On the box, Benefit claims that this mascara lengthens, curls, volumizes, lifts & separates. They say that the formula is jet-black, long-wearing, and won't smudge or dry out.

Color

Right now, this mascara only comes in black. I actually like that though because it means I don't have to choose between 50 different colors that all sound the same (Black, Blackest Black, Very Black, Blacker Than Black, Midnight Black, Pitch Black...you get the idea). Honestly to me, all black mascaras look the same to me on my lashes, so I can't really tell you if this looks blacker than any of the other black mascaras I've tried.

Formula

When I first started using this mascara, the formula was perfect. Not too wet and not too dry. Just right down the middle. Now after several weeks of use, it leans a little more towards the dry side, but I wouldn't call it a "dry" mascara by any means. When you pull the wand out of the tube, there isn't any excess mascara on the bristles that you have to wipe off, but there is a little extra on the tip where the brush changes shape. There's not a ton though, so one quick swipe of the tip against the inside of the tube should solve the problem. I haven't experienced any smudging yet and it does seem to last me all day long as the box promises.

Brush

The brush is plastic and has little spikes all over it. Unlike other mascaras, it also has little spikes all over the tip (the tip kinda reminds me of a mine from Minesweeper). This helps you get those hard to reach inner corner lashes and it also helps separate your lashes if you get any clumps.

Number of Coats

One coat basically gives me what my favorite drugstore mascaras give me...Good length, volume, and separated lashes. I don't get any clumping when I just do one coat. With two coats, I see a huge difference in my lashes. They're the longest I've ever seen them and much more voluminous than they are with one coat, but I do get clumping when I put on the second coat. I sometimes have to spend a few minutes separating my lashes with the tip of the brush. I can't even imagine the clumps I'd get with three coats.

Performance

I can honestly say that this is the best mascara I've ever used. After I put it on for the first time, I just stood and stared at my lashes in the mirror for a good five minutes. I had never seen them that long and dramatic before! So I would say that the box lives up to all its promises.

Removal

This mascara is harder to remove than most other mascaras that I've used. It actually kind of reminds me of a waterproof mascara for that reason. Every night, I take my makeup off with a makeup remover wipe and it gets some of the mascara off, but not all of it. I usually have to take the rest off with a Q-Tip and makeup remover in the morning after my shower. I just rub the wet Q-Tip all over my lashes and it comes off pretty easily.

Negatives

This is definitely what I would call a "high maintenance" mascara. It can be difficult to remove and you're going to have to spend some time working to get those dramatic lashes, but you'll eventually get them if you're patient. I wouldn't recommend this if you're the type of person who just likes to quickly throw on make-up in the morning and go. This also isn't the type of mascara you can go back and touch up later in the day. It gives you what I call "crunchy" lashes. They're separated, but pretty stiff. If you try and put more on later you'll just have clump city and spider lashes.

Overall

Final Look A

Price C-/D+

Packaging A

Formula A

Brush A

Removal B-/C+

Have you tried this mascara? How did it work for you? What are your favorite high-end and drugstore mascaras?

Anthropologie Black Friday Sale

2011-11-21T20:27:00.000-05:00

Skirt: Anthropologie Peppered and Striped Skirt

Top: Anthropologie um...er...help?

Belt: Anthropologie Synapse Belt

Shoes: Anthropologie Bouquet of Roses Heels

Necklace: Forever 21

Rumor has it that there will be a pretty decent sized sale at Anthropologie tomorrow (head on over to Effortless Anthropologie to get the latest sale news) followed by an extra 25% off sale beginning on Wednesday and an extra 50% off sale beginning on Friday. Now normally, all this talk of sales and percentages off at my favorite store would have me smiling and excited, but for some reason, all I feel right now is anxious and confused :/

If something I want goes on sale tomorrow, do I play it safe and buy it, try and wait one more day for the extra 25% off, or cross my fingers that I can find it in-store on Friday so that I can get the extra 50% off? There are just too many options! Honestly, the only thing that I REALLY want is the Polka Rounds Clutch, which I don't think will be included in the Black Friday sale even if it does go on sale tomorrow because it's not apparel. If it does go on sale tomorrow, I'll most likely buy it because I would kick myself for months if I missed out on it.

Other than that, all I really have my eye on is the Outlined Celandine Cardi, the Trace The Stars Blouse, the Slung Sash Tee, and the Kites and Constellations Cardigan. I'm guessing it's too early for any of those to hit sale and the Outlined Celandine Cardi just came out in black, so it has no chance of going on sale this week. Who knows. Maybe nothing I want will go on sale this week. I actually think that might be a good thing because then I won't have to worry about any of this!

Are you guys going to hit up Anthro on Black Friday? If something you want goes on sale tomorrow are you going to snatch it up or will you risk missing out on it for the chance to get it at 50% off?

Anthropologie Dulcie Dress Dupe

2011-11-20T16:40:00.001-05:00

Anthropologie Dulcie Dress

I spent the day today shopping at a nearby outlet mall and while I browsing through the American Eagle store, I came across something that looked very familiar.

AE Ballerina Party Dress-$59.50

Look familiar to anyone else? It's definitely not an exact dupe for Anthro's Dulcie Dress, but I'd say it's pretty similar and a great alternative for those of you who don't want to drop $160 on a dress right now.

The American Eagle website gives the following details about the dress:

100% cotton
Corset-style top
V-neck
Floral-embroidered lace top
Hidden hook closures on top
Adjustable spaghetti straps
Full tulle skirt
Fully lined
Smocked back
Ribbon tie at the waist

It also comes in black, but personally, I don't like it as much as I do the neutral version.

The neutral version is only available in sizes 8, 10, 12, and 18 online, but the black one is available in all sizes. My store had plenty of the neutral version in stock though, so don't give up hope if your size isn't available online. Oh and if you're going out shopping on Black Friday, you can probably get an extra 25% off the dress in store. In the past, American Eagle has done 25% off your entire purchase until noon.

So what do you think? Is this dress a good dupe for the Dulcie Dress? Do any of you own the AE version or have you tried it on? Be sure to let us know how the fit/quality is if you do/have!

November Birchbox

2011-11-19T11:30:00.001-05:00

The products in this month's Birchbox are all supposed to be "gift-worthy" products. Meaning they're products that you might want to give to your friends and family this holiday season. I don't think I'll be giving any of these to anyone who I know, but there is a pretty good chance that I might pick a few up for myself :)

The Zoya Nail Polish in Noel was my favorite thing in my box this month. It's a medium/dark toned blue with silver sparkles. I'm honestly still in shock that they actually sent me a color that I like and I'll wear!

Another product that I'm excited to try is the Oscar Blandi Jasmine Protein Mist. You can spray this on damp hair to detangle and fortify or you can spray it on dry hair to restyle when using a hot tool. You guys know that I have tangles and I also have dry hair, so I think that this will be perfect for me. Oh and it smells really good too!

The Klorane Soothing Eye Makeup Remover With Cornflower is supposed to be a gentle makeup remover and good for those with sensitive eyes. I use makeup remover every day, so this is another perfect product for me.

The last product that I got in my box was the LaROCCA Skincare Champagne & Shimmer Body Polish. It's an exfoliating scrub that's supposed to give you super soft skin. It has raw sugar, acai, and 24-karat colloidal gold in it along with shea butter and coconut oil. The smell isn't the greatest, but I am happy that it doesn't have any actual shimmers in it.

This month, Birchbox gave me a chocolate treat in my box. It's from the brand Chuao Chocolatier and it's called Firecracker Chocopod. I already ate this and I have to say, it definitely wasn't a treat for me :/ Something in it popped in my mouth like Pop Rocks do and it was just too hot for my mouth.

I also got a bonus product in my box for referring friends, giving feedback, and buying products at their online shop. It's the BaubleBar Black Wood Pop Bracelet. This was a really nice gesture on Birchbox's part, but sadly, the bracelet is pretty cheap looking and feeling. I think it's headed for the trash as soon as I finish writing this post :/

Overall, I really liked my Birchbox this month. All of the products that I got were right up my alley and really generous sizes too.

What did you get in your Birchbox this month?

Shabby Apple Skirt Giveaway (CLOSED)

2011-11-18T06:30:00.001-05:00

The lovely folks at Shabby Apple recently contacted me and asked if I would be interested in doing a giveaway for my readers. Of course I said yes, so one lucky winner will win this cute little skirt:

Francine Pencil Skirt

We know. You need a wardrobe staple as fashionable as it is functional, sticking it out rain or shine, season to season, year after year. Make it timeless, make it versatile, but please don't make it boring. Enter Francine, the antidote to your deepest wardrobe doubts. Cut in canvas twill the perfect thickness for all-season wear, this high-waisted black pencil skirt needed only a smart bow topping to fulfill the measure of its waist-defining, hip-slimming, eye-catching creation.

I chose the Francine Pencil Skirt because 1) It has an adorable bow at the waist, 2) It reminds me of something I'd see at Anthropologie, and 3) I'm pretty sure most of you could wear this to work.

If you're not familiar with Shabby Apple, be sure to go check out their website. They've got lots of great women's dresses and skirts. The Overboard Dress and Co-Ed Skirt are a few of my favorites.

To Enter:

1) All you have to do is "like" Shabby Apple on Facebook and leave a comment letting me know that you have.

2) You can get 1 extra entry by following You, Me & Anthropologie with Google Friend Connect.

3) You can get another extra entry if you blog about this giveaway and leave an additional comment with a link to the post.

4) The giveaway ends Wednesday, November 23 at 11:59PM EST. The winner will be notified by email and will need to respond within 3 days with their name, address, and skirt size. I will email that information to the folks at Shabby Apple and then they will send you your skirt.

Thanks so much to Shabby Apple for providing this skirt for the giveaway and good luck to everyone!

The Anthropologie Girl

2011-11-16T22:48:00.000-05:00

Dress: Anthropologie

Cardigan: Target

Belt: Target

Shoes: Target

Earlier today, Roxy posted notes from the Urban Outfitters (Anthropologie parent company) quarterly earnings call. I always love reading these posts of hers because I like hearing about what's happening on the business side of things. What I found most interesting about her post today though was CEO Glen Senk's description of who the target Anthropologie consumer is. Here's what he had to say (taken from Effortless Anthropologie):

Glen T. Senk
Yes, so the core Anthropologie customer is 28 to 45 years old, upper middle class, either married or in a committed relationship. Roughly 50% of them have kids. It is a customer who would prefer not to shop in a chain store environment because the customer who really sees herself as a boutique customer but loves the value, the convenience, the reliability, the consistency of shopping in Anthropologie. This is -- the vast majority of these women are college educated. The last time I looked, I think 60% of them travel overseas on holiday once a year. This is a customer who is well read. It is not a customer who is driven to be first with fashion, but it's a customer who wants to look appropriate. The difference between the URBN customer -- the URBN customer is really dressing to attract a mate. The Anthropologie customer is addressing for respectability in her community, with her friends and family. We love this customer, obviously. We say that this is the customer you want to have at the dinner table. She's an optimist. She's aware of what's going on in the world, but she chooses to focus on the positive, not the negative. She wants to look beautiful. I think that, quite frankly, anytime we miss with the fashion, we have to remind ourselves more often than not it's because we're selling product maybe intellectually on trend, but it doesn't flatter her. And it's amazing. I was at a meeting with Wendy a few weeks ago, and I said, "Oh my God, you look at every good seller. Every good seller makes a customer look beautiful. She wants to look and feel great." So hopefully, that helps. Where else does she shop? I mean, she shops at J. Crew. She shops at Nordstrom. She shops at boutiques. And after that, in the apparel area, it falls off pretty dramatically. We don't really share a lot of share of wallet with the other department stores or chains. I mean, she's absolutely not -- she may go to Banana Republic for basic pants, but she's not buying her wardrobe there. She's not shopping at Ann Taylor. She's certainly not shopping at Chico's and so on. So hopefully, that helps you.

I found this to be so interesting because it doesn't describe me at all! I'm just short of the age range that they target. I hate little boutique shops because I think that most of them are overpriced and they don't have a lot of variety. During the holidays, I travel back to my small hometown in the Midwest where the closest Anthropologie store is 2.5hrs away. I honestly think that I'm one of the few people in my town who knows that Anthropologie is a store and not just something that you choose to major in during college. I'm definitely not an optimist. I tend to see the glass half-empty. That way I'm not extremely disappointed if things don't turn out how I want them to. I'm pleasantly surprised when they do though. I don't shop at Nordstrom and as evidenced by my outfit today, I like shopping at places like Target.

Now this is good news for Anthropologie because they've pulled someone in who they weren't targeting, but it's bad news for me because they aren't designing their clothes for people like me. They're designing them for the person who I'm not. This is probably why I haven't been very impressed with what Anthro has had to offer over the last 6 months. I like the quirky prints, which we haven't seen much of lately and while I do like their simple, solid colored tops and skirts, I refuse to pay $70-$100+ for them. I'll just go to Target or Old Navy and get my basics for much cheaper. Now that I think about it, I guess this can also be bad news for Anthropologie because if they aren't designing things that I like, then they aren't getting my money.

I'm not too bothered by all of this though because it seems like Anthro has been missing the mark with everyone lately. Target consumers and non-target consumers. I just hope they get back on track sooner rather than later because I want some quirky cardigans to wear this winter!

What about you? Did Mr. Senk describe you to a T or was he completely off as he was with me?

Curly Hair Routine

2011-11-15T17:48:00.001-05:00

Over the last few months, lots of you have commented or emailed me asking me how I get my curly hair to look the way that it does. My plan was to do a little video tutorial of me curling my hair for you guys, but I honestly just haven't had the time or patience to put that together. Maybe one day...So instead, I thought I'd write up a blog post about the products and tools that I use on my hair on a regular basis.

As far as shampoo goes, I've been using the Redken Dandruff Control Shampoo for probably the last 4-5 months. It seems to get rid of the flakes and it doesn't flatten the hair on the top of my head. For conditioner, I usually buy a different one every time I run out. They all seem to work the same on my hair. Right now I'm using Pantene's Flat to Volume-Medium-Thick Hair Solutions. Then once a week, I use Aussie's 3 Minute Miracle to deep condition my hair.

Once I'm out of the shower, I spray Pantene's Detangler all over my hair and I comb it out with a wide tooth comb. I have really tangly hair when I get out of the shower, but that's my own fault. I'm too lazy to brush it out before I get in the shower :) Then I put a small amount of the Macadamia Oil Nourishing Leave-In Cream on the ends of my hair and I spray Tresemme's Heat Tamer Spray on my hair before I blow dry it. I should spray this on before I curl my hair, but I don't. I just use a cheap Conair hair dryer from Walmart to dry my hair.

Skirt: Anthropologie Scalloped Dots Skirt

Cardigan: J.Crew Jackie Cardigan

Belt: Anthropologie Snakebite Belt

Shoes: Anthropologie Flaxen Wedges

After that, I just start curling my hair. For the longest time, I used the Conair Infiniti You Curl (it's a tapered, clampless curling iron) and it worked really well, but I eventually realized that I didn't like how tight my curls came out and I didn't like that the curls were different sizes because the wand is tapered. So a few weeks ago, I went to ULTA and picked up the Hot Tools 1 inch Gold Curling Iron and I have to say, I'm much happier with the curls that it gives me. They're a lot more loose and all the same size because the barrel isn't tapered. Highly recommend it!

It usually takes me about 20-25 minutes to curl my hair. I put one side of my hair in a pony tail while I curl the other side. I try and curl 1 inch sections at a time and I keep them on the curling iron for 10-12 sections. Then when I'm done, I loosely run my fingers through my hair so that the curls are more like loose waves. Before I run out the door, I spray my all time favorite hair product all over my hair. The Tresemme Tres Two Hair Spray (it's the one with the 4 on it). That stuff seriously works wonders. It keeps my curls looking good all day long and it doesn't give my hair that horrible crunchy feeling. I think it's only $3-4 too.

That's it! Let me know if you have any other questions about what I do with my hair. I'd be happy to answer them. Also, be sure to let us know what your favorite hair products/tools are in the comments!

The Fluffy Ballerina

2011-11-14T09:00:00.000-05:00

Dress: Anthropologie Dulcie Dress

Scarf: Anthropologie Ruffled Mountains Scarf

Cardigan: J.Crew Jackie Cardigan

Shoes: Anthropologie Rensselaer T-Straps

A few weeks ago, I stopped by one of my local Anthro stores to check out the new arrivals and the first thing I saw when I walked in was this dress paired with this scarf on a mannequin. It was so simple, but so perfect and a pairing that I probably never would have come up with myself. The second I saw the outfit, I knew that I'd be leaving the store with not one, but two new additions to my closet.

Of course I wanted to wear my new outfit to work the very next day, but part of me was afraid it might be a little too figure skater/ballerina for the office. I ended up saying "the hell with it" and I wore it anyway. I wasn't about to let a $160 dress just hang in my closet for months collecting dust. I do think that the cardigan and scarf helped tone down the dancer/skater vibe that the dress gives off.

Sadly, my husband was not a big fan of my new outfit. He said the dress was too frilly, too fluffy, too high maintenance, too much, and my favorite...not man friendly. I have no clue what any of that means, but he sure seemed pretty confident in his descriptions of my dress. It's always funny to hear what men think of women's clothes, isn't it?

Oh and he also said that the color of my scarf reminded him of vomit. At least he's honest I guess.

Survey Says

2011-11-09T23:05:00.000-05:00

Earlier tonight, I set up a poll over on the side of my blog asking you guys which blog posts of mine are your favorites. I did this because sometimes I wonder if I should continue doing posts like Anthropologie Fitting Room Reviews or if you guys are even interested in what I get in my Birchbox each month. This will just give me a better idea of what you would like to continue to see and what you'd like to see more/less of. So if you have a chance, please take a second to vote. You can vote for as many choices as you'd like. You don't have to pick just one.

Bye for now!

Anthropologie Fitting Room Reviews: Feathered Village Skirt, Twinkle Lights Pencil Skirt, Stilt Striders Skirt, and Split Diamonds Shift

2011-11-08T22:18:00.000-05:00

Feathered Village Skirt-$168 by Maeve

Size 6

Don't the birds on this skirt look like they're riding on a ferris wheel? Either that or one of those family rides that they have at amusement parks that takes you up in the air over the entire park. The colors of the skirt are much more vibrant IRL than they appear online and I'm happy to say that the baby poop green color isn't as bad IRL as it looks online. I'd say this skirt runs TTS to a little big. My normal size 6 fell lower on the hips, causing the bottom of the skirt to hit me right near the bottom of my knees. I think I'd prefer the size 4, which would sit higher up on the waist and the length wouldn't be as long. The skirt has a side zip and doesn't come with pockets. I do like this skirt and might consider buying it on sale. My only issues with it are that it could be hard to style and the print is very memorable, so I wouldn't be able to wear it to work all the time.

Twinkle Lights Pencil Skirt-$218 by Carnation Lily Lily Rose

Size 6

I like to call this skirt the fruitcake skirt. I made fun of it last week when I first saw it at my store, but it turns out it's really not as bad as I thought. Part of me actually kinda liked it. It's covered in red, green, yellow, and gray sequins. has pockets, and has a back zip along with a few buttons and clasps. It feels very heavy when you pick it up, but that extra weight isn't noticeable when you have the skirt on. My normal size 6 was loose around the waist and fell lower on the hips than I would have liked, but I think the size 4 would have been too tight and fitted. Even if it would have fit me, I probably would have passed because 1) The price is ridiculous, 2) When would I wear this other than in the month of December?, and 3) Up close, the skirt looks kinda cheap.

Stilt Striders Skirt-$158 by Charlotte Taylor

Size 6

I feel like I've been waiting forever to try this skirt on! Sadly, I wasn't as impressed with it IRL as I thought I would be, but I did like it. I guess I'd call the skirt navy with a hint of purple and pinkish-orange flamingos. There are pleats all around and no pockets. It has a back zip, but the back of the waistband is also elastic. I don't think I've ever tried a skirt on before that's had both. My normal size 6 was definitely too big because of that elastic, so I'd recommend sizing down at least one size. I was hoping the skirt would be more flowy on the bottom, but it's not. It's very straight and stays close to the body. This is another skirt that I think is going to be hard to style. What colors do you pair it with on top? It's also one that you can't wear to work every other week because the flamingos are just too memorable. I think I would buy this if it got down to around $50-60, but until then, I'll pass.

Split Diamonds Shift-$188 by Tabitha

Size 6

If you're a regular reader of my blog, then you know that shift dresses and I are not friends. The designs and colors are always great, but the fit just doesn't work for my body type. This one was no different. I loved the design and the blue/teal/gold/black color combo and the fact that I could easily throw a cardigan on over this for work. I sized up to a size 6 as I always do with Tabitha dresses and while it looks like it fits in the picture, I did have some extra room around the stomach. That extra fabric bunched up when I walked around the fitting room, which is nothing new for me with these dresses. The bottom of the dress hit 1.5-2 inches above my knees, which probably wouldn't be too short for work, but it's cutting it close. I also wasn't a fan of the exposed zipper in the back. I just think it looks weird when you have a cardigan on and you see a little bit of the zipper peeking out from underneath it. I do highly recommend this though if you can get the fit to work for you.

Over the Weekend: A Food Frenzy

2011-11-07T07:43:00.000-05:00

I just realized that basically everything I did this weekend revolved around food. Not good for my waistline!

On Saturday, we went to the Metropolitan Cooking & Entertaining Show. It's basically a huge room full of 300+ different exhibitors (mostly food) and all of them have free samples for you to try. I swear if I never see another jar of salsa or bottle of barbecue sauce it will be too soon!

After we walked around for several hours, we got to go see Paula Deen speak and "cook". I put that in quotations because she really didn't cook anything. The other chef who was up there with her did all the cooking. She just got on him every once in awhile for not doing things her way and rubbed the meat a few times in between talking about her upcoming cruise and her new book. I think I'll probably try my luck with Guy or Giada next year.

After that, we walked to the White House so that my husband could, wait for it....feed the squirrels. Yes, you read that right. For some reason, he loves feeding the squirrels at the park that's right across from the White House. I swear, I wouldn't be surprised if one time he snuck one home with him in his jacket.

You might be wondering what's so great about these particular squirrels. Well, they are very VERY friendly and have no fear of humans whatsoever. They sit right next to you on the park benches, they sniff your shoes, and will basically eat right out of your hands.

Here was our favorite squirrel from the day. He was all black and was willing to fight to the death for the peanuts that we had.

Outfit picture in the park.

Dress: Anthropologie

Cardigan: Target

Tights: Kohl's

Shoes: Anthropologie

That night, we went to Founding Farmers for dinner. I highly recommend it if you're in the area. They have lots to choose from on the menu and it's all very reasonably priced. My husband got the fancy hot dogs while I opted for their simple breakfast.

On Sunday, I met up with Rosa, Rebecca, and Maria at the National Archives to see the exhibit "What's Cooking, Uncle Sam?". Did you know that the blueberry jelly bean was created specifically for President Reagan's inauguration? He wanted to be able to serve red, white, and blue jelly beans at inaugural festivities, but at the time, there wasn't a blue one. So they made one for him. We learned lots of other fun facts like that while at the exhibit.

After that, we walked to Paul's bakery where we got some of the biggest macarons I've ever seen!

America Eats Tavern was our final stop for the day and I must say, their brunch was delicious! We shared their bread basket and homemade dough nuts with blackberry jam and then for my entree, I had the waffles with blackberry butter.

If you're interested in going to the exhibit and/or the restaurant, be sure to go soon because they both close in January of 2012.

What did you do this weekend?

It's Friday, Friday

2011-11-04T06:50:00.001-04:00

Top: Anthropologie Curated Tee

Skirt: Anthropologie Apothecary Skirt

Belt: Anthropologie Synapse Belt

Shoes: Anthropologie Bouquet of Roses Heels

Necklace: Forever 21

~I wore this outfit last week to the Anthropologie Accessories store birthday event. Well, part of the outfit. Once I got home from work, I realized that you could see the darts/folds of my bra through my shirt, so I quickly took it off and threw on another top. I swear a man must have created that bra. No woman would do that to her own kind.

~When I was around 7 or 8, I was obsessed with the magazine Cat Fancy. My grandpa had a cat at the time, so he got the magazine and whenever he was done with it, he would give it to my mom to give to me. The second I got it, I would open it up to the centerfold, rip it out, and hang it on my wall. I actually think I might have had more cat posters up at one time than I did guy posters. I really hope that's not a sign that one day I'm going to be a crazy cat lady!

~Is it weird that I was actually excited to get up this morning because I got to use my new Benefit: They're Real! mascara for the first time?

~When I was in 8th grade, I had a boyfriend who was really into watching wrestling on TV. I wanted to be able to talk to him about it, so I started watching it too and I eventually became hooked. It was just like a soap opera, just a little more geared towards men. Every Monday night I would sit in front of my little 13 inch white TV and watch Monday Night RAW. When my mom would knock on the door, I would quickly change the channel because I didn't want her knowing I watched it. My boyfriend and I eventually broke up, but I still kept watching. Loved me some HHH, Chris Jericho, and The Edge.

~Last weekend, my husband and I went and saw the movie In Time at the movie theater. When we got to the ticket counter, the guy said that it would be $27.50 for the both of us. I looked at him like he was crazy and he explained that the movie was in a bigger theater with a bigger/better screen, better sound, and better seats. Then he gave us a slip of paper that said if you didn't think the theater was any better than a regular theater, you could have your money back (the difference between a regular ticket and the more expensive one). Well the movie sucked and I didn't notice a huge difference in the sound or picture, so we went and got our $8 back along with half the other people in the theater. Nice try AMC. Oh how I miss the days when movies used to be $3.50 per person!

~Do you guys remember when Starter jackets were a big fad back in the 90's? I had an Orlando Magic jacket and the funny thing is, I didn't even like the Orlando Magic. I just liked their colors better than the Chicago Bulls, who were my favorite team at the time.

~Yesterday was the first day I've ever used a real curling iron (one with a clamp). I think it worked well, but I'm not really sure since I have nothing to compare it to. It's the black and gold one from Hot Tools. Anyone ever used it? What curling irons do you guys use? I might go out and buy another one from a different brand just to see how it compares to the Hot Tools one.

~21 more days until Black Friday! Anyone else excited? What do you normally do on Black Friday? Last year, we hit up the mall at midnight and then we went to Target/Best Buy at around 4:30/5 for the cheap movie deals. I have no clue what we're doing this year. I'm guessing we won't go to the mall at midnight again though (at least that mall) because it was packed with people and I remember we had to wait over an hour at Gap and Old Navy for just 1-2 cheap tops/pajama bottoms. Honestly, I'd rather just pay the extra $5 and not have to wait in line.

Have a good weekend!

Thoughtless Thursday

2011-11-03T06:23:00.002-04:00

Thoughtless Thursday is what happens when you fall asleep at 8pm on Wednesday night writing your blog post and then when you wake up at midnight, you realize that everything you had written has mysteriously disappeared.

Dress: Anthropologie Silken Trellis Dress

Cardigan: Target

Belt: Anthropologie Snakebite Belt

Tights: Kohl's

Shoes: Anthropologie Flaxen Wedges

October Favorites

2011-11-02T06:55:00.000-04:00

Real Techniques Blush Brush

I picked this brush up a few weeks ago at ULTA when they were offering 20% off your entire purchase. It normally only costs $8.99 though, so I probably would have picked it up even if there wasn't a sale. I love that it's hot pink and has a wide base so that you can stand it up if you want. It's also really soft and I haven't experienced any shedding with it the two times I've cleaned it. It's not as dense as some of my other blush brushes, but it still gets the job done.

Maybelline Baby Lips in Quenched

This lip balm gives Nivea-A Kiss of Moisture (my HG lip balm) a good run for its money. It's very moisturizing, smells like Froot Loops cereal, and comes in 6 (I think) different flavors. This one comes off clear on your lips, but there are 4 others that have a tint to them. I also have the pink tinted one and while it's not as moisturizing, it has great pigmentation and smells great (like fruit punch).

Number 4 Lumiere d'hiver Reconstructing Masque

I got this product in my Birchbox last month and it has quickly become one of my favorite hair products. It's just as good, if not better than Aussie 3 Minute Miracle, which is one of my HG hair products. You just put it on your ends for 2-3 minutes and then rinse. It leaves your hair soft, smooth, and tangle free.

My Halloween Nails-Sally Hansen Salon Effects Real Nail Polish Strips

I cannot tell you how many compliments I got on my nails at work this last week when I wore these strips. I'm sure they're gone from stores now since Halloween is over, but I highly recommend picking up one of the Christmas/holiday themed ones that are out in stores now. Mine lasted 7 days with a top coat and even then there were only a few chips on 3-4 nails.

Nature Valley Chewy Trail Mix Granola Bars in Fruit & Nut

I normally hate bars like these (I prefer Nutri-Grain bars or Fiber One bars), but this one is so good! They are about $2.50 at Target and the box comes with 6 bars. I mostly taste the nuts, but there are quite a few pieces of dried fruit in them too. This is the only bar I've ever tried from Nature Valley, but I know there are at least 8-10 other varieties available.

Family Feud & Friends iPhone App

If you loved watching Family Feud growing up like I did, then you'll love this app. It's free and you can play against friends on Facebook or you can sign in as a guest and play against other random people on the internet. The graphics on it are great and I like that once you start typing the first few letters of your word, four possible word options pop up (that way you save time and it also helps if you aren't a good speller).

Instagram iPhone App

I just got this app a few weeks ago when I got my new phone and I am obsessed! You guys, I have been missing out all this time! This makes horrible pictures look great and amazing pictures look even better. And the best part? It's free! Oh and stupid me just found out that there aren't just 5 filters (the ones that first show up on the screen). There are 11 (I think). You just have to scroll over to see them all. The only negative I have is that I wish you could Instagram your entire picture instead of having to crop a good 25% of it off before you do it.

The Walking Dead

I'm not a big zombie movie fan, but for some reason, I love this show. I guess because the zombies aren't that scary looking and there's enough drama/other stuff to balance the show out. I'm not as impressed with this second season as I was the first season, but it's still good. If you missed out on the first season, you can go and watch it instantly on Netflix. It's only 6 episodes, so you could get it all watched in a few nights and then pick up where season 2 is now.

What were some of your favorites during the month of October?

Happy Halloween!

2011-10-31T17:10:00.002-04:00

Top: H&M

Cardigan: Target

Skirt: Anthropologie Licorice Lanes Skirt

Belt: Anthropologie Snakebite Belt

Shoes: Payless

This poor, neglected skirt finally got its time to shine today. I seriously don't think I've worn it since last September/October. It's just not a very spring/summer/winter skirt and I don't wear it a lot during the fall because you can really only pair it with white and black, which are too of my least favorite colors to wear. It's the perfect Halloween skirt though, which is why it's still got a spot in my closet.

Anyone have any fun plans for tonight? I'll probably just stuff my face with what's left of the candy corn, watch Halloween: Resurrection that I taped over the weekend (it's got Busta Rhymes and Tyra Banks in it, so you know it's going to be good), and then cry myself to sleep over Kim Kardashian's divorce. I really thought this one was going to last :/ (totally kidding)

Happy Halloween!

Anthropologie Accessories Store Turns 1

2011-10-28T17:30:00.000-04:00

Last night, I met up with Rosa, Sara, Rebecca, and Maria at the Anthropologie Accessories store to celebrate its first birthday. I honestly can't believe it's already been a year since the store first opened. It seems like just yesterday I was dragging my husband to an event celebrating the opening of the store, forcing him to put a smile on his face while I ooohed and aaahed over all the goodies :)

The event last night was much more relaxed and low key than the store opening event last year. Sangria and apple cider were served instead of wine and the finger foods were similar to those you might have at a get together with friends (I'd rather have these than finger foods that have fancy sauces and names/ingredients that I can't pronounce).

It was also much less crowded last night, which was nice because I wasn't constantly bumping into people or feeling like I was always in someone's way.

One of my favorite things about the Accessories store is this sign in the back room. I've never seen anything like it before.

Of course I also love all of the amazing accessories that they have too.

At the end of the night, we were given these cute little containers to take home that each had a truffle inside. My truffle was completely gone about two seconds after I walked through the door of my place. So yummy! It tasted just like fudge, which is one of my favorite desserts.

After we left the Accessories store, we headed over to Anthropologie to check out the new arrivals and the sale room and to see if they had the new charm necklaces that Roxy posted about the other day. We were excited to see that they did have the charms, but it seemed like our store had fewer options than Roxy's store did. So we left empty handed in hopes that they get some more in stock in the near future.

As usual, I had a great night with everyone and congratulations again to the Anthropologie Accessories store for a great first year!