Save & Splurge

When taking a blogging hiatus I had a lot of time to re-evaluate what I wanted to spend my hard earned money on. I often get caught up with what I see on other blogs and in store emails so much so that I positively NEED to have it. Then I wear them once and its back to the basics. Its sad, but sometimes I buy something I can't wait to wear on the blog and that's the only time I wear it. Lucky for eBay buyers...not so much for me. 

In the time I've been away I have become more frugal with my pennies. Buying items that I know I will use more than once and/or shopping at stores with trendier items and a lower price point. I want to invest in more timeless pieces while still dabbling in trends. I've also put my closet on constant rotation... if I buy something new, something old must go. No more saving things that I might just wear one more time in the near future in case something happens to this item that looks similar but not exact to this one. (You all know what I'm talking about.)

With all my new goals I have come to love finding duplicates to items I see on some fancy schmancy blogs within my price range. For example I saw these shoes on Gal Meets Glam and knew I had to have them. Then I saw the price tag and went on a week long search of the perfect dupe. Not only has this helped my wallet, taking a week to look around has also helped me to reevaluate if I really want it or not. If I can survive a week without having these shoes, is it really necessary to take them home? I know its not very Carrie Bradshaw of me, but my fiance is proud. And our bills are paid. =) After looking around I came across these beauties and couldn't be happier. Add a little discount code and free shipping and I call it winning.

Now that I've taken up your time here is my favorite save vs splurge item this week. 

I love a good quirky piece of jewelry. However, I am not the best caretaker of anything really so spending a lot of money on jewels is not my forte, especially trendier items. I love these Genevieve Jones earrings so much! I mean really how could you not?! 

Source: Lucky Mag

Lucky for me it seems as though safety pin earrings are circulating the stores these days so it was very easy to find these Rachel Roy look a likes. Another quality designer without the price tag. 

Source: Lucky Mag

Whats your favorite save? What items are you currently craving? And how do you keep your craving in check!? 

Thanks for sticking around and stopping by!

xoxo, Meg

I Woke Up Like This

Some days, I just have to wake up early. 

Like work days. 

Otherwise, I want quality bonding time with my memory foam. 

And snuggles. Lots of snuggles. 

Which is why I don't understand where my mind was at when I decided to make an appointment for 8:45AM. AM!!

Vest: F21+
Chambray: Old Navy
Jeans: Old Navy
Sunglasses: Forever 21
Booties: Old Navy
Clutch: Coach
Scarf: Gift
Bracelets: JCrew Factory, Alex & Ani
Watch & Earrings: Target

I was clearly ready before the sun was.

 At least I was able to throw something together that didn't make me look how I did Friday mornings when I made it for Psych my freshman year. (Hint: It wasn't pretty.)

Moral of the story: I survived the early appointment. But I left the house without coffee which means I tripped a few times and never took my sunglasses off. 

Today I'm happy to announce that this month I've been a proud sponsor for Because of Jackie. Meagan's was one of the first style blogs I discovered and I've been hooked ever since. I love her sense of style and her honesty and willingness to help out the new kids. Which is why we're happy to announce a Group Giveaway!

Up for grabs is everyone's favorite....a Target gift card!

Its simple to enter just go follow along with the Rafflecopter below!

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Good luck!

Linking up with Style Sessions. 

Lets All Play Nice...Pinning Lately

The weather has been so uncooperative lately. On my days off there's been nothing but rain or snow or just plain frigid temps which makes for less than desirable conditions for taking  blog pictures. However, this means I get to snuggle, wear giant sweats (or Grinch fleece pants) and slippers. Can't say I'm all that mad. My inner lazy girl is in aaaallll her glories since its been non-stop since the first of the year. So bear with me until the sun comes out again. 

For now I'm looking to Pinterest for lots of inspiration and recipes and home decor. 

I'm crazy drawn to bright colors, due mostly to the gloom that is the weather. 

All these colors got me craving warmer weather...except these are cold weather looks! Its like magic or something! I'm excited to start experimenting but for now I'll stick to my bright lips and tips. Two things I'll never stop wearing no matter the season. 

What are you pinning these days?

Leave me your Pinterest name or your favorite board! 

I'd love to check them out!

Linking up with Style Elixir Friday Fab Favorites

Visit my style board for all my favorite looks. 

Currently Craving...

This one time on a dreary Saturday morning...I spent 2 hours browsing F21+ sale...and ended up with a $400 shopping cart....and spent another hour narrowing it down to a respectable price range. (Ya know...one that allows me to pay the bills and still look cute.) Here's what was going on in my mind...

I've wanted a kimono since I first saw this one on Shanna. 

I've needed wanted new taupe wedges since my dog got mad at me for leaving for work and ate mine. 

Leopard everything. 'Nuff said.

I NEED an outfit for Valentine's day. And how sweetly sexy does this look?

This romper has been on my wishlist since I first saw it in September. The price is now right.

I have a version of this sweater I adore...its just not quite the right size. This is a suitable replacement. 

This dress and this blazer...I mean...c'mon!

I'm a sucker for a romper and determined to find one that's flattering to my curves and I love the print and belt on this one. It says "wear me all spring".

Looks like I'll be adding things to my ebay closet real soon!

What are you currently craving? And how do you narrow down your choices when its all so damn cute!?

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Green Smoothie

In an effort to start the year off right I started a Pinterest board on Smoothies and updated my Healthful board, I signed up for Zumba at the rec center and I looked at this picture of Kim K.

Okay, maybe that last one didn't do much in the self esteem department but I certainly put in some time on Pinterest! 

(side note: I'm more team Kourt or Khloe but when it comes down to it, I love me a good Kim pic.)

I keep reading about how awesome green smoothies are for your mornings and how frugal they are.
Oh really? I'm down.
I checked out a few different recipes before settling on this version. 

PBB (peanut butter banana) Green Smoothie

You need:

• 2 cups of baby spinach (or baby kale if you're into that)
• 2/3 cup (add a little more to thin the smoothie) of unsweetened coconut milk (or almond, soy skim, whatever)
• one ripened banana
• one heaping tablespoon of creamy peanut butter
• 1/2 cup of Greek yogurt ( I used plain 2% but 0% or vanilla work as does regular yogurt)

Blend ingredients and serve chilled. Enjoy!

I would have taken more pics you see...but I was in such a rush to drink it... This makes a great base to start with. I'd love to add some berries...and I found a great blueberry kale smoothie that I'm dying to drink! What have you been doing to stay on track this year?

Celeb Closet Crush: Reese

Reese Witherspoon

Welcome to the first installment of  Celeb Closet Crush in the new year!

I hope everyone is enjoying having a fresh start... I know I am. 

Whats not to love about Reese? Shes cutesy, blonde and has done many a great movie.
Legally Blonde anyone?
 I've noticed recently that shes been popping up with the greatest casual looks that I can't wait to replicate. Plus she kills it on the red carpet. And I've used her haircuts in salons for years.
Shes casually elegant. I can dig that. 

Here are a few of my favorites:

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Visit my Pinterest board for more inspiration dedicated to Reese's fantastic beauty and enviable closet.
Which look is your favorite?