AMAZON FASHION FRIDAY

Affordable fashion from Amazon. Simply click on the products below to shop. Most are under $30. Happy weekend!

WARM WEATHER DRESSES

The weather here in New York City was amazing yesterday! I didn’t even need a jacket, and my boys and I were still running around the playground playing tag at 5 pm. It had me thinking about warmer days ahead and putting my sweaters and boots away for good. We aren’t there yet, as temps are dropping again today, but a girl can dream.

I feel like every year when the temps get warmer and I want to buy a few new dresses for the season, my size is never available. So I decided to get ahead of things this year, and when I saw this feminine blue number, I snagged it. I love dresses that make me feel pretty and sexy without showing too much skin. The belted waist makes it feel a little more polished. And I could easily see wearing a pair of espadrilles with it to make it a bit more casual. And pointy-toe pumps could elevate the look even more. I paired it with simple gold jewels like my favorite hoop earrings, the top half of this delicate gold necklace, and this perfect gold bangle.

But as I’ve said before, you don’t always come to the blog for one dress, even though this is a really good one. So I’ve curated a collection of some of my favorites to bring out during warmer weather. There are a few that are true splurges that I can’t afford, but I simply love them and just couldn’t resist. Perhaps one of my readers is lucky enough to have the budget and can score them. To shop, simply click on the images below.

SHOP DRESSES

YOU’RE MAKING ME BLUSH

Blush. It’s probably my favorite color and has been for at least the past year. It’s perfectly feminine without being too girly or “baby-ish,” as my 7-year-old likes to classify things. I remember watching “The Wedding Planner” and seeing J Lo in lavender all the time. It made her softer, more feminine, more love-worthy. I think blush is the modern day version of that. Around Valentine’s Day, everything is about red. Or pink. But I’m opting for blush this “holiday.” It’s in quotes because my husband says it’s a holiday Hallmark has exploited to make lots of money. Maybe he’s right or maybe he’s just always wanted to relieve himself of the pressure of finding a perfectly-suited gift.

Whatever the case may be, I fell in love with this sweater for any day of the year. Blush is a color that transcends seasons. You can see it pairs easily with blue denim. I’d also throw this on with white or black denim. It’s a perfect sweater for the fall and equally as perfect for a cool summer day or evening.

But you clicked through to a blog post for more than one sweater, right? Because I’m so infatuated with blush at the moment, I’ve created a boutique of some of my favorite blush items available, including this sexy open-shoulder sweater. Simply click on the photos below to SHOP BLUSH LOOKS.

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VALENTINE'S DAY GIFT GUIDE FOR HER

My best Cupid imitation

It’s January 14. That means St. Valentine’s Day is one month away. This “holiday” can be a pretty tricky one. It’s meant to express our love, but sometimes it’s not really love…maybe it’s “I like you a lot” or infatuation or “I don’t know where this is going but I feel like I need to get a gift.” And it could also be that we feel alone without someone who makes our heart pitter-patter to share it with, so that’s a perfect opportunity to love ourselves and splurge for something special. Whatever your situation, there should be a gift in here for everyone in your life. And I do know that 75% of my readers are women, so ladies, just copy and paste this URL into your text message and send it to your main squeeze. He will have zero excuses this year! Some are definitely splurges, but aren’t you worth it? And of course many are reasonable. SIMPLY CLICK ON THE IMAGES TO SHOP.

FOR THE FASHION PRINCESS

Nothing says you’re loved like royalty more than a beautiful coat that is worthy of Kate Middleton. These coats are stunning! I’ve tried the first green one in person. They’re from L.K. Bennett, a brand often worn by the Duchess herself. They’re also on sale!

FOR THE BAG LADY

Every awesome woman deserves an awesome bag. I like these two because of their versatility. This bracelet bag is definitely a splurge, while the box clutch is affordably priced in case she’s only a “like.”

FOR THE SHOE LOVER (SO BASICALLY ALL WOMEN)

A friend of mine recently introduced me to Birdies. This brand is hard to come by (they sell out quickly), but the first two pair here, which are so darling, have a decent amount of availability. I think they are perfect for Spring and Summer months, so get them now because I’m quite certain that once warmer temps actually arrive, these shoes will be long gone. The third pair is not by Birdies, but it very closely resembles one of their models—go 1/2 size down in this pair…I have them, and they run a little large.

FOR THE GAL WHO LIKES TO LOUNGE

My same friend who introduced me to Birdies introduced me to this brand of pajamas and loungewear. These are two of my favorites! The pant set can be worn any time of year, as can the hearts short set. But the hearts kind of go along with this Valentine’s Day theme, don’tcha think?

FOR THE BOOT LOVER

I am obsessed with the first pair of boots. I was originally in search of a black pair, but they are nowhere to be found in my size. I emailed a dear friend of mine who works for the brand, and even she couldn’t get here hands on a pair. So I started looking at them in brown and quickly realized that they’d actually be better and pair well with more of my wardrobe. I saw my friend this morning, and she surprised me with this very pair. I nearly died! I’ll be wearing them soon so you can see just how versatile they are. For rain boots, you can’t beat Hunter. And I chose red because this color actually goes with a lot AND helps to brighten up a rainy day. Plus, they go with our V-Day theme! The fleece wellies help keep those toes warm because rain boots aren’t really great for that on their own.

FOR THE SPA LOVER

I’m dreaming of a Friday night home alone. After a long week, sometimes that’s just what we need. (This will NEVER be a reality for me!) Just envision a nourishing sheet mask on your face, applying a soothing oil to your freshly showered body, and having the time to give yourself a mani/pedi. This kit has a mask for just about every need your face could have. The body oil contains coconut and argan oils and is extremely nourishing. It also has the most calming light fragrance. Use the nail polish and top coat together for a manicure that remains chip-free for one to two weeks! Make your own at-home spa gift set for her with all four!

FOR THE GIRL ON THE GO

Whether she's traveling on a plane, train, or just heading to the local gym, these products are for her. The travel size favorites from Sunday Riley will help her maintain that healthy glow even on the go during this harsh, cold winter. And this bag is brilliant—no need to worry about your filthy shoes contaminating everything else in your bag because there is a separate compartment on the bottom to hold them. (Can you tell I live in NYC where all sorts of unpleasant things happen on the sidewalks?)

FOR THE WINE LOVER

My sister recently started trying organic wines without sulfites in an attempt to minimize a hangover. This special device, with replaceable filters, actually removes sulfites from wines, making any wine of our choice supposedly “hangover free.” Unless you drink an entire bottle on your own, and then I can’t make any promises. If you’re choosing the wine, you may like this tasty and hard to come by Cabernet Sauvignon. If you’re planning a Valentine’s Day in, this bottle will make you feel glad you stayed at home.

FOR THE FRAGRANCE LOVER

Buying a fragrance for someone else can be really risky. Fragrance is so personal. Heck, buying one for yourself without wearing it around for a few hours can be tough. This gift set from Chloé is perfect for two reasons—1) Its $20 price tag makes it relatively low risk and 2) the fragrances are very soft, light, and feminine and not over-powering, IMO.

FOR THE AVID READER

A friend of mine from college is an avid reader, and in my next life, I’m going to read all of the books she finds time to read on her commute from Brooklyn to Manhattan. Lucky her—over 30 minutes to herself twice a day! In this life, I’m going to try to read at least these two. They come highly recommended by Jen Ben, and she knows her books!

FOR THE BEAUTY JUNKIE

I don’t know any beauty junkie who ever ends her quest to find the next perfect mascara. The eyes alone do so much to wake up our face (or tire and age it). Meet a winning combination—a primer to nurture your lashes and maximize the results of your mascara, plus an awesome mascara itself. You’ll need makeup remover to take off this mascara at night, but who wants a mascara that runs easily anyway?

FOR THE DESIGN LOVER

This beautiful oval bowl/serving platter is from an Etsy shop. And I love supporting small artisans and businesses. I can’t get over its beauty. Available in three different colors, use it to actually serve or just sit around looking pretty. The designer makes other shapes and sizes, as well.

FOR THE JEWELRY LOVER

These pieces are fun and inexpensive. I love layering necklaces, and this initial charm is perfect for that. These earrings are so fun and sexy! AND, they too, go with our Valentine’s Day theme, but rest assured she’ll wear them long after the holiday has passed. Nothing takes an ordinary outfit from boring to hot faster than red!

FOR THE COOK AND ENTERTAINER

Nate Turner’s cookbook is so much more than a cookbook. It’s filled with entertaining tips and ways to beautify your home and simplify your life. The imagery is gorgeous, and the recipes will delight the senses. The Nespresso Machine is another one of my obsessions, and I’m planning to purchase this one ASAP. Believe me when I tell you that the frother is a game changer. And I truthfully like the taste of these drinks better than those served at Starbucks. No wonder Nespresso is a dominant brand all over Europe. This machine will give her that coffee house treat at home whether alone or serving guests.

Whatever your situation for Valentine’s Day, I hope you remember to always love yourself every day. Because holiday or no holiday, Whitney was right about at least one thing. XOXO!

THE DUSTER — THIS IS NOT A HOUSEKEEPING POST

Happy Monday, everyone! For the majority, Monday is a day to dread. And for the most part, I’m with you. But both of my kids are back at school today, and although I love them more than life itself, I do need a bit of me time after being 24/7 mom for over two weeks.

Today’s post is a simple fashion break. I’m showcasing the Duster—a long cardigan that’s easy and effortless and can be dressed up or worn casually. Throw it over leather leggings as I’m wearing here. Pair it with jeans and a t-shirt or tank top. Wear it over a dress or skirt and blouse. The possibilities are endless! You know I’m big on versatility.

The duster I’m wearing here is sold out online in smaller sizes, but I’ve provided several alternatives that are also very affordable. (And you can always check your local Target for the version I’m wearing.) If you don’t yet own a pair of leather leggings, what are you waiting for? You all have seen these before, and you’re going to continue to see them on me for years to come because they will never go out of style. I’ve even provided a faux pair that look pretty darn real. And the black pumps—yes, they’re an investment, but the pair on my feet here are over 10 years old. Yep, no exaggeration. To shop the entire look, simply scroll through the images below using the arrows and click on any image.

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PUFFER JACKETS

A few weeks ago, an ad for a puffer gown came up in my Facebook feed. I won’t mention the brand because I actually like many of their jackets and coats. But this dress? Hmmmmmm. Does anyone remember the Michelin Man commercials? The character that looked like a giant marshmallow? Well, that’s what this dress resembled. To the tune of $2,000! Yes, you read that correctly. I got a kick out of it as I was trying to understand why it popped into my feed. And a few weeks later, a friend of mine sent me an article on puffer gowns being the latest fashion trend. It even talked about how to accessorize them. None of it convinced me to jump on the bandwagon…a wagon that probably had one person riding.

But the puffer jacket, now that’s a different story. There are so many great options this season from cropped to bright colors to styles with faux fur collars. I was fortunate enough to spot this one at Target. I have an extremely long torso, so I don’t usually love cropped styles. So when I was considering it, I didn’t want to spend a ton of money. If you’re looking to be a part of this trend, this may be the jacket for you because it’s a neutral color, affordably priced, and is not overly cropped like some I’ve seen. If you’re 20 years younger than I am, you can probably pull off that uber cropped look. But I’m a bit past it at the age of 44.

The greatest thing about puffer jackets is that they’re warm (even this one from Target) and they can be scrunched into a bag or suitcase without wrinkling. This jacket was perfect for a trip to Rockefeller Center to see this year’s tree and grab a tasty chai tea latte from the Ralph’s Coffee Pop-Up. I mean, how cute is this little holiday scene of a truck? And just below where I’m standing is the Rockefeller Center Ice Rink, buzzing with skaters taking a bite of the New York City Christmas extravaganza. If you’re planning to be in NYC this winter, you must stop by. The beverages are pricey but very worth it given the setting and their warmth and deliciousness.

To shop this puffer jacket and other favorites of the season, simply click on the images below.

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Featured Jacket

Reversible Nike

Faux Fur Hood

Maternity

Faux Fur Hood

Red Short

Red w/Faux Fur Hood

Army Green Packable

Pink Metallic

Pine Puffer

Green Faux Fur Hood

Blue Faux Fur

SAM Black w/Fur Hood

Black Puffer

Zippered Black

Black Red Lined

WINTER WHITE OVERSIZED SWEATERS

Winter white has to be my favorite color of sweater during colder months. That creamy softness, a little darker and warmer than snow, not crisp like the white of summertime. It’s flattering to all skin tones and hair colors, and it just screams cozy. When it’s oversized, the coziness just went up a few degrees. It’s versatile. You guys know that’s my criteria for anything. It goes with denim, black, black leather, camel, gray, winter white on the bottom…everything!

This particular sweater is from Mango, whose sweaters I am loving this season. So I’ve provided a few additional options from Mango if you don’t love this particular sweater. Through today only, you can use code VIP18 at checkout to receive 30% off. You won’t find this code listed on their website. The other sweaters are Madewell and from their website or Nordstrom, and they’re also on sale!

I’ve paired this oversized sweater with my favorite coated jeans that you’ve seen before, and I’ve added leopard print boots for a city chic look. To me, this entire look is casual taken up a notch, perfect for brunch or dinner out. But again, this and the other options can go with anything. Simply click on the images in the SHOP SWEATERS and SHOP THE LOOK sections to see all details and shop. And don’t forget your 30% off code for Mango.

SHOP THE LOOK

SHOP JEWELRY

Gold Hoops

Gold Bangle

WARM UP WITH A SCARF

I promise there’s a reason for the dogs in the photo, but I’ll get to that in a bit. We’re getting down to the wire. 11 days until Christmas, which means only 10 shopping days remain. At this point, you need easy, no risk gifts. And a scarf falls into that category. This scarf I’m wearing, which you saw earlier this week with a sweater dress, is amazing. It’s versatile, soft, luxurious and affordable.

But if the lady in your life doesn’t want something quite as chunky, I’ve provided a few more options. The Missoni blush scarf is quite a splurge, but I’ve had a Missoni scarf and a Missoni dress for years, and both are still so beautiful, never going out of style. The other options are all fairly accessible, and as for style, I think most women would be thrilled to receive any one of them. If you wish to shop the scarves, simply click on the photos below to SHOP THE LOOK.

And last but not least, the dogs. These beautiful collies do not belong to me, but we couldn’t resist them as they were walking by. The owners were so nice and were happy to stop and play a little. If you have an animal lover in your life and you still can’t think of an appropriate gift, consider a donation, in honor of that special person, to an organization that helps furry friends. The American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals, more commonly known as the ASPCA, is always a great organization to send a donation. It was the first humane society established in North America and remains one of the largest in the world. Who wouldn’t be happy about donating to an organization that protects beautiful, loving, innocent animals?

Besides the ASPCA, there are likely no-kill animal shelters in your area that could use your help. My kids and I visited the Southampton Animal Shelter several times this summer. Without support from the community, they can’t do what they do. The Southampton Animal Shelter is an absolutely wonderful facility and organization. My kids could have stayed all day long in one of the kitten rooms, playing with these adorable little creatures. They hold all animals until they are adopted, often nursing many of them back to health. This organization could use your help, but if you prefer to donate locally, please research no-kill shelters in your area.

And finally, Best Friends is an organization that owns sanctuaries for animals, and in addition, brings together organizations that work to end the killing homeless animals. Consider donating to one of these organizations, or a similar one in your area, this holiday season. You can never go wrong by donating to a worthwhile cause.

SHOP THE LOOK

Featured Scarf

Missoni Blush

Red Blanket

Pink Faux Fur

Rib Knit

Ivory w/Rainbow Speckles

Animal Print

Donegal Cable

Seafoam Stripe

Light Blue Boucle

Black Cream Stripe

Gray Cream Stripe

PONCHOS PACK A PUNCH

When it comes to cozy, nothing says it better than a poncho. After all, it’s basically a blanket with arm holes cut out, right? A poncho is perfect for fall and winter, as it can be layered over button down shirts and both lightweight and heavy sweaters. They’re terrific for a fall weekend apple picking, hiking, and/or in the pumpkin patch. And when there is snow on the mountain, nothing could be more stylish and cozy for après-ski (hint-hint for any skiers on your gift list) or more festive for Christmas tree shopping. In addition, many of them are affordably priced—another great reason they make wonderful gifts.

This poncho I’m wearing is from Target. How do I love Tar-zhay? Let me count the ways! And if it wasn’t for this poncho, I would have suffered from hypothermia. It was freezing the day these photos were taken, and this baby saved me. It’s super warm, super soft, and super affordable. It’s presently on sale—buy one, get one half off—so get the sweater and poncho together! And perhaps one of the the best reasons to gift a poncho—no need to worry about guessing her correct size (which means you can’t offend her).

The thin v-neck sweater I’m wearing is also from Target. And my jewels, shoes and belt are so versatile—you’ve seen them all more than once. Simply click on the photos below in the SHOP THE LOOK section to shop this poncho and a few other favorites from this season (many on sale). There are even two from Wal-mart! Yes, I said Wal-mart! The rest of my outfit can be shopped here—Marc Fisher booties (and similar here), grey sweater layered underneath, belt, crescent necklace, delicate choker, and faux (but very authentic looking) diamond stud earrings.

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THE POM POM SWEATER

I might have been a cheerleader for a year in high school. I have so many fond memories of that time with my teammates, smiling through freezing cold football games, and getting our hair up into our banana clips perfectly. Did any of you wear banana clips? Yes, that was a looooonnnngggg time ago. I also have a scar that remains on my calf from falling off the top of a pyramid and having Pam Barron break my fall...with her fingernail. I still love you for saving my life, Pam!

Ironically enough, we didn’t use pom poms a lot, but that term just takes me back to those days. This year, I’ve seen so many pom pom sweaters, and I’m in love with the one I’m wearing because it’s so versatile. I wear it with denim (distressed, gray, black), coated jeans, and leather leggings. While this particular sweater from Madewell is sold out in most smaller sizes, I’ve provided options for a few others if you love this look as much as I do. Simply click on the images below to SHOP THE LOOK. In addition, if you like the cut of this sweater (the sleeves are fabulous), Madewell sells it in other colors without the pom poms here.

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